are you as self conscious as me

although it sounds like I am not as bad as wibblywobbly [no wheelchair yet] does anybody else feel uncomfatable useing mobility scooters and the like. I allways feel people are loooking at me and judgeing me as I am neither old or have obvious bits missing

[laddie]

I felt like this for a log time but with acceptance of the illness came acceptance of the situations

Anyway I am old and people are generally very courteous(not sure of the spelling)!!when they see my walking aid.If the odd person is impatient that is their problem.Try not to be as self conscious I used to worry about my daughter parking me in front of mirrors when I used a chair but it gets easier I once tried to demolish M&S when I used a scooter! Just try to keep a sense of humour.

[Hidden]

I have to be honest and say no. The number of people I now actually notice who are wheelchair bound are numerous, something I`d not paid too much attention to in the past. I always helped if I could - holding doors open or stepping out of the way with a nice smile.

But, no, it does not bother me at all when I`m out and about in my wheelchair.

Mind you though, I don`t know if visiting the hospital via ambulance is actually `out-and-about`

[jurgen in reply to Hidden]

Thank you for your lines

John.H.

[abbofella]

Although I am still walking quite well, but with one or two sticks for security I recently bought a wheeled walker with a seat as I tire very quickly. This has transformed shopping trips with my wife, I can sit, recover and make unhelpful comments as to the flattering or otherwise nature of her potential clothing purchases. Also walks in national trust gardens are now quite feasible as I don't need to find a bench to rest up. I may look more of an ancient crock but who cares. cheers Abbofella

[wildone]

Yes, definitely. I always put it at least partly down to paranoia, but then I go out in public with someone for the first time and that person will 9/10 comment on the amount of people staring. C'est la vie.

[february]

I use a cane, and honestly don't care what anyone thinks...,ha! People I don't even know have been very kind, holding doors open for me, etc. One time I was walking toward my car with my cane in my right hand and a bag in my left. A gentleman, who was talking on his cell phone, offered to open my car door for me. I thankfully excepted his help (talk about multi-tasking...,ha!). Anyway, the way I see it is better safe than sorry, as falling is not my idea of a good time! ;o)

[Zhez]

Hi Johnpa, I started using a powerchair 5 years ago for work, it upset me so much that I changed jobs to one where I could drive up to the front door! I now use it all the time outside and if anyone stares I just give them a really big smile, gets them everytime

[wibblywobbly]

Hi Johnpa, I don't use a wheelchair all the time. Usually walk with my stick and find seats often. My walking distance is very limited. It really is other peoples problem not yours, you need to do things in the way that you can. I think Zhez's advice is prob really good - give them a big smile.