Only ask a wheelchair user why they use a wheelchair after you’ve become familiar. This question is not appropriate from strangers.

When in a long conversation with someone in a chair, sit down. It is very tiring – even painful – for a person in a wheelchair to have to stare up at you. [1] X Research source

Treat a wheelchair as an extension of a person’s body. If you wouldn’t put your hand on that person’s shoulder, then don’t put your hand on their wheelchair unnecessarily. Always respect a wheelchair user’s personal space. [2] X Research source

If you are hosting an event, make sure it is accessible. Check the venue for barriers to the building’s entrance. Make sure aisles and corridors are wide enough to maneuver a wheelchair. Bathrooms should be large enough to turn the chair around, and a handrail is needed. If the event is outdoors, then the ground or surfacing should allow a wheelchair to move easily over it. Gravel, sand, soft or very uneven surfaces can present a challenge.

When shopping, be aware of scooter/wheelchair users and try to keep to one side or the other of an aisle. Share the aisle; walk as you would drive. When parking, avoid parking beside a van with a handicap license plate that appears to be away from other vehicles. The handicap van occupant may need the empty space next to the van to deploy a ramp when wheelchair user returns to the vehicle. Not all designated handicap parking spaces have sufficient space beside them to accommodate the ramp, so sometimes it is necessary for ramp-equipped vans to park far away from other cars to obtain the necessary space.

Never move a person’s wheelchair without permission. They may have had it positioned to transfer to and from the chair easily.

If the person is not able or does not wish to shake your hand, they will likely decline politely. Don’t take offence, the rejection most likely is about concern regarding the physical act and has nothing to do with you.

As in any conversation, if the person indicates they would prefer you avoided particular phrases, it is polite to honor the request.

If the person makes jokes about their chair, it may be appropriate to join the banter, but never initiate it.