Before the invention of the wheelchair, people with mobility impairments relied on various methods to get around. These included:
- Sedan Chairs: These were essentially chairs carried by two or more people. They were commonly used by the wealthy and those with limited mobility.
- Crutches: Crutches were used for support and to aid in walking, particularly for those with leg injuries or weakened muscles.
- Crawling and Dragging: Some individuals would crawl or drag themselves, often with the help of others, to navigate their surroundings.
- Being Carried: Individuals might be carried by family members, friends, or servants.
- Animal-Drawn Carriages: In some cases, people with disabilities might have used animal-drawn carriages to travel longer distances.
These methods were often cumbersome, inconvenient, and limited in their ability to provide independence and freedom of movement. The invention of the wheelchair revolutionized mobility for many, offering a more efficient and dignified way to get around.
