Master Your Environment: A Guide to Safely Reaching Items from a Wheelchair

For wheelchair users, the simple act of retrieving an item can sometimes become a complex challenge. A high shelf in the kitchen, a dropped set of keys, or an object pushed to the back of a desk can all present obstacles to independence. However, with the right techniques and tools, you can master your environment and reach what you need safely and efficiently.

Here is a guide to safely reaching items from a wheelchair, with some fantastic product recommendations to make the process easier.

1. Assess Before You Reach: Safety First

Before you extend your arm, take a moment to assess the situation. The most important rule is to never compromise your stability.

• Know Your Limits: Be realistic about your balance and range of motion. If an item is too high, too heavy, or too far, do not attempt to get it. Overreaching is a primary cause of tips and falls.

• Position Your Chair: Get as close to the object as possible. Position your chair parallel to the shelf or counter, or face it directly if that provides a more stable base. Always engage your wheel locks before reaching.

• Ask for Help: There is no shame in asking for assistance. If a task feels unsafe, it probably is.

2. Extinguish the Struggle with the Right Reacher

When an item is just out of arm's length, a reaching aid is your best friend. These devices extend your reach and grip, preventing you from having to lean dangerously. There are many types of reachers and grabbers available, each suited for different tasks.

For everyday items around the house, the Carex Ultra Grabber Reaching Aid is a fantastic all-purpose tool. Its 32-inch length gives you plenty of extra reach, and the head rotates 90 degrees, allowing you to grab items from different angles—perfect for retrieving a can from a cupboard or a sock from behind the dryer.

For smaller, more delicate, or oddly shaped items, you might need a more precise tool. The Therafin E-Z Reach Digi-Supp Combo features a unique trigger and jaw design that offers superior control. The rubberized cups can pick up everything from a dropped coin to a remote control with ease.

3. Secure Your Success: Don't Drop What You've Grabbed

Successfully retrieving an item is only half the battle. The next challenge is transporting it safely without dropping it or having it slide off your lap, which can be frustrating and dangerous.

This is where the LapStacker comes in. It's a brilliant retractable strap system that secures items to your lap, leaving your hands free to propel your chair.

• For Rigid Frame Chairs: The LapStacker XD is designed for rigid frame wheelchairs. It installs in minutes and provides a secure way to carry groceries, boxes, or laundry without fear of them tumbling off.

• For Folding Frame Chairs: If you use a folding chair, the LapStacker Flex is the perfect solution. It offers the same security and convenience but is specifically designed to work with the folding mechanism of your chair.

4. Outdoor Stability for Reaching on the Go

Reaching isn't just an indoor activity. You might need to grab mail from a mailbox or pick something up from the garden. Outdoor surfaces like gravel, grass, or uneven pavement can make reaching even more precarious.

If you use a cane for additional stability when standing or transferring, consider upgrading its tip. The Safety Foot is a rugged, all-terrain tip that provides superior traction on uneven ground. Its multi-pronged design offers a wider base of support, giving you extra confidence when you need to lean slightly to reach something outdoors.

By combining smart safety practices with the right assistive technology, you can confidently navigate your world and keep the things you need within easy reach.