Using the wheelchair
23
6.8
Stability and balance when seated
Some everyday activities and actions require you to lean
forwards, sideways or backwards out of the wheelchair. This
has a major effect on the wheelchair’s stability. To keep your
balance at all times, proceed as follows:
Leaning forwards
WARNING! Risk of falling out
If you lean forwards out of the wheelchair you could
fall out of it.
- Never bend too far forwards and do not shift
forwards in your seat to reach an object.
- Do not bend forwards between your knees to pick
up something off the floor.
Point the castors forwards.
(To do this, move your wheelchair forwards slightly then
back again.)
Apply both parking brakes.
When leaning forwards your upper body must remain
over the castors.
Reaching backwards
WARNING! Risk of falling out
If you lean too far backwards you could tip your
wheelchair over.
- Do not lean out over the backrest.
- Use an antitipper device.
Point the castors forwards.
(To do this, move your wheelchair forwards slightly then
back again.)
