Welcome to the Wheelchair Guy Blog

Mo Bahjat July 28, 2025     Love is usually seen as something everyone can experience, no matter where they come from or what language they speak. But for people with disabilities, finding love can be difficult because of societal barriers based on wrong ideas and biases.     A big problem is the stereotypes that show people with disabilities as needing help, not interested in sex, or unable to have meaningful romantic relationships. The media often makes these ideas stronger by either ignoring the romantic lives of disabled characters or showing them in a way that doesn’t include sex. This lack of representation makes people think that love and intimacy are not normal for people with disabilities.     In many cultures, disabilities are seen as something to pity or be ashamed of, which leads to social stigma. This stigma affects not only the general public but also people who might want to date someone with a disability. They m...

In today’s digital world, computers and smartphones are not just helpful—they are essential, especially for people with disabilities. These tools help with education, jobs, social connections, and important services, greatly improving quality of life. For those with mobility problems, speech issues, or sensory disabilities, technology helps overcome challenges that once seemed impossible. Screen readers help visually impaired people use the internet easily, voice-to-text software assists those with limited movement, and video calling apps allow people with hearing disabilities to communicate through sign language. There are also special apps that help with daily tasks, like reminding people to take medicine, providing GPS directions for wheelchair users, and offering real-time transcription services. These tools help people become more independent, boost their confidence, and fully participate in society. Also, if someone in distress and needs help, that person can ...

    For people who use wheelchairs, everyday tasks can be hard because of accessibility problems. One big challenge is getting dental care. Many dental offices say they follow the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), but for wheelchair users, the experience is often different.     The first problem is getting into the dental office. Parking spaces that are hard to reach, steep ramps, or heavy doors without automatic openers can be big obstacles. Inside, narrow hallways and small treatment rooms make it difficult to move a wheelchair.     Even if getting into the building is easy, the dental chair is another issue. Many dental chairs are not made for easy transfer from a wheelchair, and not all offices have special equipment like wheelchair lifts. This can affect the quality of care because some procedures need precise positioning that might not be possible without moving to a traditional dental chair.     ...

The healthcare system is supposed to help everyone, but it often struggles to meet the needs of people with disabilities. A big problem in many hospitals is the lack of the right equipment to give good care. This not only makes medical services worse but also makes people with disabilities feel ignored and unequal. One main issue is the lack of special medical equipment for disabled patients. For example, many doctor’s rooms do not have chairs that can be adjusted or reclined, which are important for people with mobility problems. These chairs help patients feel comfortable and allow doctors to do thorough exams without causing pain. Without them, patients might feel extra physical strain, discomfort, and even risk getting hurt during regular medical checks. Also, not having accessible diagnostic tools, like imaging machines that can be adjusted in height or scales that wheelchairs can use, can lead to wrong diagnoses and worse health outcomes. This shows that the nee...

    Stairs are a big problem for people with disabilities. They make it hard for us to be independent and enjoy a good quality of life. Stairs are not just inconvenient; they also make it difficult to access important services, join social activities, go on dates,  and find jobs. In this essay, we will look at why stairs are often seen as a major obstacle for people with disabilities.     Stairs stop people with mobility problems from moving around easily. Those who use wheelchairs, walkers, or crutches cannot go up or down stairs without help or special equipment. This can lead to feeling alone because people might avoid places with stairs, which stops them from fully joining in community activities. Without accessible paths, it can also be hard to reach healthcare centers, government offices, and other important places, making existing problems worse.      Besides, many buildings and public places do not hav...

In recent years, talking about mental health has become very important, showing how crucial it is for our psychological well-being. However, when we look at mental health in the context of disability, the conversation becomes even more complex and important. Understanding how disability and mental health are connected is key to creating inclusive communities, fair healthcare, and complete support systems.       People with disabilities often face a higher risk of mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders. This is not just because of their physical or cognitive conditions but also because of societal barriers, discrimination, and lack of accessibility. The stigma around both disability and mental health can make people feel isolated and marginalized.      Mental health support is significant for people with disabilities, but it is often ignored. Access to mental health services can be limi...

In today’s world, even though we have made big steps in understanding and including people, there is still a strong social stigma about disability. This stigma shows up through stereotypes, wrong ideas, and unfair actions that make life harder for people with disabilities, even more than their physical challenges. So, what is social stigma? Social stigma is when society has negative feelings and beliefs about certain traits different from what is considered normal. When it comes to disability, stigma can lead to people being left out, having fewer chances, and feeling isolated. This can affect a person’s mental health, self-esteem, and overall happiness. The reasons for stigma are complicated and often come from old prejudices, a lack of understanding, and fear of what we don’t know. The media can also play a role by either making disabilities seem dramatic or showing people with disabilities as someone to pity. These stories can make harmful stereotypes s...

Hearing is a vital sense that connects us to the world, facilitating communication, fostering relationships, and enriching our daily experiences. However, for individuals with hearing difficulties, these connections can be fraught with unique challenges that often go unnoticed by those without such impairments. Understanding these obstacles not only fosters empathy but also highlights the importance of inclusivity in our communities.       Unlike visible disabilities, hearing impairments can be "invisible," leading to misunderstandings and misconceptions. People with hearing difficulties may be mistakenly perceived as inattentive, unresponsive, or even aloof. This stigma can significantly affect self-esteem and social interactions, making everyday engagements more daunting.       The primary challenge faced by individuals with hearing difficulties is effective communication. Background noise in public spaces, rapid sp...

      The Public restrooms are a basic necessity, yet for many people with disabilities, they represent significant barriers to comfort, dignity, and independence. The design and layout of these essential facilities often overlook the diverse needs of individuals with mobility, sensory, and cognitive disabilities, turning a simple act into an overwhelming challenge.       Although the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessible public restrooms, compliance is inconsistent. Inadequate space for wheelchairs, poorly positioned grab bars, heavy doors without automatic openers, and fixtures placed out of reach are common problems. For individuals with sensory sensitivities or cognitive disabilities, loud hand dryers, confusing layouts, or lack of visual cues can be distressing.        The inability to access a restroom can limit where people go, how long they stay out, and whether the...

Creating a more inclusive society where people with disabilities feel supported and empowered is a responsibility we all share. Whether through personal actions, community initiatives, or policy changes, every effort counts. Here are key ways we can make life more accessible and dignified for individuals with disabilities. 1. Promote Accessibility in Public Spaces Designing spaces that accommodate everyone is fundamental. This includes: Installing ramps and elevators alongside stairs. Adding tactile paving for visually impaired individuals. Ensuring accessible restrooms and proper signage. 2. Leverage Technology for Inclusion Assistive technologies can significantly improve daily experiences: Screen readers and speech-to-text software for those with visual or hearing impairments. Smart home devices that facilitate independence. Apps that enhance mobility and navigation. 3. Foster Workplace Inclusivity Employment opportunities should be based on skills, not limitations: Provide...

     In the realm of social welfare, the treatment and support provided to individuals with disabilities vary greatly from country to country. A key topic of discussion in the United States is the "disability cap," a limitation that affects the benefits received by individuals with disabilities. In this blog post, we will explore what the disability cap entails and compares it with the more robust disability support systems in Europe. What is the Disability Cap? In the United States, the disability cap refers to limits placed on the amount of income and assets a person with disabilities can possess while still qualifying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The cap also often extends to limits on the benefits themselves, restricting the total assistance one can receive.      For instance, SSI recipients must have limited income and assets—typically not exceeding $2,000 for individuals and...

Finding a rental home that meets the specific needs of individuals with disabilities can be a daunting task. Beyond the typical hurdles faced by renters, disabled individuals often encounter unique challenges related to accessibility, affordability, and the overwhelming wait times associated with Section 8 housing assistance. The Accessibility Dilemma For many people with disabilities, accessible housing isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Features like wheelchair ramps, wide doorways, roll-in showers, and lower countertops are essential for daily living. Unfortunately, such modifications are not standard in most rental properties, making the search both time-consuming and disheartening. Landlords may be hesitant to invest in significant modifications, and while the Fair Housing Act requires landlords to allow reasonable modifications at the tenant’s expense, this still places a financial burden on individuals who may already be facing economic challenges. The Affordability Crisis Afforda...

When my wheelchair broke down unexpectedly, I thought it would be a simple, quick fix. Little did I know, it would turn into a journey filled with lessons about patience, persistence, and the complex world of insurance approvals. Here’s my story—and what I wish I had known from the start. The Breakdown It was an ordinary day when I noticed my wheelchair wasn’t functioning properly. A strange noise, sluggish movement—I knew something was wrong. I called my mobility technician, hoping for a quick appointment. Thankfully, they managed to fit me in the next day. The technician did a thorough check and identified that the motor needed replacing. That’s when the real process began. Repairs like this aren’t just about swapping out parts; they require detailed documentation, a prescription from my healthcare provider, and—yes—insurance approval. The Waiting Game: Insurance Approval I submitted all the necessary documents, thinking, "How long can this take?" It turns out, quite a whil...

Navigating the world with a disability can often be a challenging experience, especially when it comes to transportation. The first hurdle is finding an accessible ride. Ideally, a van with a ramp is the best option, allowing you to independently enter and exit the vehicle. However, not everyone has access to such a vehicle. In such cases, someone must assist you by lifting you into the car, folding your wheelchair, and driving you to your destination. This can be frustrating, particularly for those who prefer the independence that a power wheelchair provides. Unfortunately, power wheelchairs are heavy and cannot be folded, making them impractical for travel without a ramp-equipped vehicle. One alternative is to book an access transit bus, which offers a shuttle service from your home to your destination. While this option seems convenient, it comes with its own set of challenges. These minivans are often dimly lit, with tinted side windows that restrict your view to the driver and the...

Studying as a disabled person presents a unique set of challenges that can be both daunting and frustrating. My journey through higher education has been marked by numerous obstacles, each requiring resilience and determination to overcome. One of the initial hurdles I encountered was the commute to campus. I had to drive my power wheelchair half a mile to the bus stop, only to find that the bus was frequently running late. This often meant missing the start of lectures, which was disheartening. Additionally, when there were two wheelchairs on the bus, I had to wait for the next one, further delaying my arrival at class. Once on campus, while the entrances were accessible, the story inside the buildings was quite different. Many classroom doors were not accessible, leaving me to wait for a kind student to open them for me. This was not only inconvenient but also felt like an unnecessary barrier to my education. Inside the classroom, the lack of accessible desks was another issue. I...

By Mo Bahjat July 6, 2025 Socializing is a fundamental aspect of human life, whether you’re an outgoing individual or someone who cherishes solitude. However, for those with disabilities, the journey to socializing, making friends, and forming relationships can be fraught with challenges. These obstacles are not just physical but also societal, as misconceptions and stigmas often create barriers that are difficult to overcome. During my college years, I experienced firsthand the complexities of navigating relationships with my disability. I met a beautiful girl, and we quickly became close, sharing lunches and laughter. In my heart, I envisioned a future together, but when I broached the topic of taking our relationship to the next level, her response was heartbreaking. She expressed concerns about the judgment from her family and friends, ultimately deciding that she couldn’t be in a relationship with me. The breakup was painful, but it was a valuable lesson in understanding the socie...

Everybody tells you, “find a job to improve your life”. This is true, and everyone needs a job to have a better quality of life. However, if you have a disability, you have fewer career options because lots of jobs are inaccessible to people with disabilities. For instance, because you are in a wheelchair, you cannot deliver food because you are unable to drive, so you cannot work as a taxi driver because you can’t drive, and of course, since you can’t swim, you are unable to work as a swim instructor.  Does this imply that there are no more choices? No. Opportunities still exist, but they are few. For example, you can work from home as a customer service agent, teach online, or learn web design to create websites for individuals and companies.  However, due to machine learning and artificial intelligence, these professions are not as in-demand as they once were. Furthermore, it's a wild goose chase to find a job these days. For instance, many jobs require a driver's license a...

Upon entering establishments such as Seven Eleven or Starbucks, individuals must typically open the door to gain access. However, for those using wheelchairs, navigating these stores, particularly those lacking accessible doors for individuals with disabilities, presents significant challenges. This can result in physical injury, as I have personally experienced. Consequently, the absence of accessibility discourages me from visiting these stores, necessitating the assistance of others to open the doors. This hinders my ability to enter and exit the premises. In my opinion, every store should implement automatic doors to facilitate seamless entry and exit for all patrons. Have you experienced this?

Transportation and Disability      Transportation is vital for everyone, but when it comes to the disability transportation, there are many challenges. For instance, in Los Angeles, California, wheelchair users can request an Uber ride to reach their destinations.  However, in other major cities such as San Diego and some others, Uber WAV services are virtually nonexistent, posing a significant challenge for wheelchair users seeking prompt transportation. In such situations, wheelchair users are typically reliant on trolley service and public city buses.      Nevertheless, these options are often constrained by the number of wheelchair spaces available on each bus. Each bus can only accommodate two wheelchairs, leading to delays and inconvenience, particularly during extreme weather conditions. Furthermore, the frequency of accessible transportation services is reduced on weekends, further exacerbating the problem. While ...

disability and accessibility In today’s post, I’ll discuss accessibility and housing. Most major cities in the USA have curb ramps, which facilitate the lives of the disabled by enabling them to move freely. This means that individuals in wheelchairs can step outside and enjoy the day without any difficulty or stress. However, when it comes to housing, there aren’t many homes and apartments designed specifically for the disabled. Many apartments are built in old designs that lack accessibility features. For instance, bathroom doors are often small, making it impossible for disabled individuals to access the bathroom using a wheelchair. Additionally, stairs can be a barrier, preventing access to the entire apartment. Furthermore, some bathrooms have bathtubs instead of walk-in showers, which can be a significant challenge for disabled people. To address these issues, it’s crucial to build more accessible housing for the disabled. Additionally, the government should enforce acces...

Disability Pride Month In July, we celebrate Disability Pride Month. I want to write an essay each week to share the daily struggles that people with disabilities face. Many think that being disabled only means having trouble with walking, but it's more complex. People with disabilities deal with many challenges, from drinking a cup of coffee to finding good jobs that help them  live better and make money. Sadly, when people with disabilities do earn a little money, they often lose their support from the government. For example, if a person with disabilities makes $80 a month, their social security benefits drop by $40. This means they lose almost half of their income. This income limit feels unfair and makes it hard for disabled people to earn enough. In fact, the government seems to discourage them from working by imposing penalties. Also, if someone with disabilities saves too much money in their bank account — like reaching $2,000 — they could lose their benefits. It's impo...