Being in a wheelchair doesn't mean you're mentally disabled

Be wise and manage your mobility now and you will save your upright mobility for longer.  ~Lara

Excellent advice!  I have been using braces and forearm canes because my house is inaccessible and the chair I got after rehab injured my shoulders--too wide and heavy--thus threatening walking and wheeling.  In November 2012 I dislocated my shoulder while pulling up bed covers, result of walking too much "on my arms".  Doctor recommended 50% minimum mobility in chair to save shoulders.  Although I got prescription for ultralight, fitted chair then, it has taken over a year to get my appointment for "wheelchair evaluation" to be measured.  During that time Medicare stopped payment for such, so my chances are slim to none for a new custom chair.  Since my recent bout of pressure sores on my feet, I must use a wheelchair more like 90%.  A lot of the flesh on my heels has been removed, and the best orthotics will not prevent further injury or total loss of walking if I don't respect my new limits.  I have been most fortunate to find a used chair that I have adjusted to fit very well, and am learning how to use it best.  House is still inaccessible, and I am looking to move--accomplishing this is a daunting task.  But with lighter chair I can lift it between rooms, and to porch and off side of porch to ground.  I am actually getting stronger by wheeling more and all this lifting.  And I can move fast again, which I am really liking!  Fortunately I can do standing transfers, and reach for things high in cupboards.  My service dog is utterly dismayed that he is no longer doing his job in the house to help me with mobility/balance, so I will retrain him for help with chair and so I can exercise him when we move.

I do not worry if people don't understand why I use different means of getting around.  If they ask in confusion, or in true interest, I answer that I choose what is best for my body and to preserve my independence as long as possible.  If they make a snide remark, I ask if they would like to trade places with me. 

Concerning the original title of this thread, my brain is affected by my disease and sometimes I fear that I add to the misconception that being in a chair means less cognitive function.  But since I am usually alone when out and about, people have to deal directly with me!