COVID-19 a Wheelchair Users Guide
With recent events as you have probably seen in the news, coronavirus has been changing the way people live their daily lives. During this global situation, self-isolation and social distancing are paramount. But what do you do if you’re a wheelchair user?Are there extra measures which need to take place?
We’ve provided a brief list of a few things which should be considered to stay safe and maintain your wellbeing during Coronavirus.
Things to Consider During Coronavirus
- Clean your wheelchair push rims, brakes and other accessories.
It’s hard to miss, the NHS are asking people to ‘wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds’. A very simple and easy way to stop the spread of the coronavirus. However, wheelchair users are in constant contact with their wheelchair. Therefore if you are following guidelines of washing your hands but not cleaning your wheelchair, you are instantly putting germs and bacteria back on your hands. We recommend using antibacterial wipes or an antibacterial spray and wiping down all the potential wheelchair sections/surfaces you’re frequently touching with your hands.
2. Keep moving – Stay active!
Everyone has been advised to stay at home to minimise the spread of coronavirus and only to leave for certain exceptions. There are concerns this will affect many peoples mental health. However, a great way to combat this is to stay active and keep moving. You can do this anywhere, whether you’re fortunate enough to have access to a garden or if you’re indoors.
Activities to include;
- Wheelchair yoga – here’s a great YouTube Video to practice this
- No equipment needed HIIT workout – YouTube from Perform To Adapt here
- Dance! Dancing brings a smile to everyone’s face (especially with a great tune!). Here’s a wheelchair dance fitness video that really engages with your core – suitable for all levels! Check it out!
- Meditation. Although this isn’t staying active, meditation has proven to help mental wellbeing. Take a listen to this peaceful and calming guided meditation.
3. Protect yourself if you’re high risk
If you’re at high risk of getting seriously ill from coronavirus, there are extra things you should do to avoid catching it. The NHS have advised the following:
- not leaving your home – you should not go out to do shopping, pick up medicine or exercise
- stay at least 2 metres (3 steps) away from other people in your home as much as possible
Ask friends, family or neighbours to pick up shopping and medicines for you. They should leave them outside your door.
Find out whether you’re at high risk here.
