How To Choose The Right Wheelchair For You

Mobility devices like a wheelchair are extremely important to people with disability or mobility issues. A good wheelchair offers optimal pressure relief and comfort. If you’re planning to buy one, you should consider the following:

• Your age
• Your body type
• Your condition
• The unit’s portability — its size, height, weight, design (e.g. if it’s foldable or not), etc.
• How will you use it — for indoors or outdoors or both?

Those factors will help you pinpoint the type of wheelchair and accessories suitable for your needs and preferences.

Wheelchair Accessories

These tools will let you use your chair and move around with ease. More importantly, they are designed for your safety. For example, installing ramps will help you make your way in and out of your home better. Tip: For ramps, look for models that have a textured or rubberized surface to prevent slides and slips. Portable ramps are also available.

Other wheelchair accessories you can buy are:

• Cushions
• Belts
• Backs
• Headrest
• Laterals
• Stump supports

Types of Wheelchairs

• Self-Propelled Wheelchairs – These wheelchairs have big wheels on their back that will let you push yourself for short distances. Self-propelled wheelchairs are a good choice if you can steer and push the seat alone using your upper body. Since they have big wheels, these wheelchairs are ideal for outdoor use. The size of the seats can range from 16 to 20 inches.

• Transit Wheelchairs – These models have handles on their back so your loved one, friend, or companion/caregiver can help you control your movement and momentum. Transit wheelchairs are a perfect choice if you need help in steering or changing your direction. As with self-propelled wheelchairs, the seat size of transit wheelchairs can range from 16 to 20 inches. Transit wheelchairs are compact and lightweight and are optimized for short-term use when travelling.

• Motorized Wheelchairs – These models are also called electric or powered wheelchairs. They are the best options when it comes to convenience and independence. Motorized wheelchairs have a treadle on their armrest that lets you control your direction and speed. Their motors make steering slopes easy while their tiny turning circle makes them good for both indoor and outdoor use. These wheelchairs can run faster, allowing you to join in on any outdoor activity.

• Complex Wheelchair – If you have been experiencing more difficult or severe mobility problems, then the best solution for you is a personalized wheelchair. This type of wheelchair is ideal for a patient with significant movement problems due to a neuromuscular disease, a traumatic injury, or a genetic disorder. A complex wheelchair is designed to address your special needs, providing you with the independence and comfort you deserve.

Which Model is Right for Your Case?

Seek the help and advice of a professional such as your therapist or doctor before buying a wheelchair. You can also consult a seating expert, who will carry out a comprehensive evaluation in order to recommend the best one for you or customize the wheelchair to make it more suitable for your needs.