Does anyone remember "Does he Take Sugar" which was, I think a radio programme about disabilities years ago.
The Does he take sugar referring to the fact that some people talk to the carer and not to the person in the wheelchair, regardless of the fact that the person in the wheelchair may be perfectly compos mentis, just perhaps unable to walk.
'Twas ever thus, I think, and I am not sure if attitudes in public have got worse, better or no different. Certainly access is better nowadays for wheelchair users to many facilities.
FlexibleFriend, I am shocked that the woman was so rude, although, yes, someone started walking backwards into me not long ago and I held out my good arm and stopped him - he was extremely apologetic.