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4.5. Practicing Basic Operations
(1) Practice the basic operations on a safe, large, level ground.
WARNING
● If there is an assistant, use caution to prevent colliding into him or her when moving back
-
ward.
In the beginning, learn how to use the handrim.
• At first, move the handrim slowly.
Basic Operations 1
Learn the feel of handrim operation.
• To go slowly, move the handrim slightly.
• To go fast, move the handrim further.
• To stop, move the handrim backward.
• To stop, apply the backward force to the handrim.
Try moving in the following manners.
■ Forward and stop
■ Backwards
• Familiarize
yourself with the
handling and
performance
characteristics of
backward travel.
• Check behind
you for safety.
■ Turns
• Make turns on a
single spot.
• Practice turning
right and left.
■ S-shaped curves
• Practice until you can travel in
the desired direction.
• Learn the feel of speed and
timing when making turns.
■ Avoid obstructions
• Practice avoiding
obstructions.
• Stop before reaching
the obstruction.
If the wheelchair has the mode switch, change the mode and practice in the same way.
