How to Pick a Good Wheelchair
Wheelchairs are more than simply a mobility assistance; they are actually an extension of the body, restoring mobility and independence. Today's wheelchairs come in a broad variety of styles and features to fulfil the needs of the extremely diverse population that use them, helping to compensate for both temporary and chronic disabilities.
Retaining your freedom of movement is crucial and can have a significant impact on your emotional, mental, and physical health, whether you require a wheelchair for a few days or the rest of your life.
Our in-depth guide will help you through every step of the wheelchair purchasing process, providing all the information you need to make the best decision to suit your individual needs. It will also address any questions you may have.
How long do you plan to use the wheelchair?
It's crucial to keep in mind that not everyone who uses a wheelchair does so for the most of the time they are awake. A wheelchair may occasionally be used as an additional mode of transportation or in substitute of another device.
There are different factors to take into account for people who use wheelchairs exclusively as opposed to others who just use them occasionally. People who use wheelchairs frequently need chairs with extra functionality beyond those found in ordinary models.
1. Aisle Wheelchair :
An aisle chair is a typical assistive wheelchair designed to make it easier for persons to board aeroplanes who have mobility issues. These wheelchairs, often referred to as aisle transfer chairs, are smaller and have more straps to properly secure the user. They can be rolled along the narrower aisles of aeroplanes and other public transit.
2. All-Terrain Wheelchair
An all-terrain wheelchair, which is available in both manual and electric variants, is specifically made to go safely across unpaved surfaces like soil, grass, gravel, sand, and snow, as well as into bodies of water when used under supervision. They are also referred to as outdoor wheelchairs and frequently have extra-large balloon-style wheels to improve stability and manoeuvrability. Non-corrosive materials are used to survive all weather conditions.
3. Bariatric Wheelchair
Designed for larger, heavier people weighing 350 pounds or more, bariatric wheelchairs are heavy-duty wheelchairs typically made of reinforced steel, titanium, or aluminium. These chairs have larger, more sturdy seats that can tilt for better medical positioning and improved center-of-gravity support. The list of the Top 5 Bariatric Manual Wheelchairs includes our top products as well as advice on how to choose the finest bariatric manual wheelchair.
4. Beach Wheelchairs
Beach wheelchairs are a subtype of All-Terrain wheelchairs that are specifically made to withstand frequent contact with water. They also feature design features that make it simpler to roll over sand and pebbles and straight into the water. Typically, a carer or attendant is needed to propel these designs.
5. Ergonomic wheelchairs
A comfortable wheelchair Ergonomic wheelchairs are designed specifically to support the human body following its natural contours. They are also portable and lightweight. Height, weight, body composition, and preferred temperature are all taken into consideration to help lessen or eliminate pressure points, shear, and discomfort. The user's weight can be more evenly distributed by using proper placement, which improves stability. The wonderful Strongback Wheelchairs and their unique design are highlighted in our article, Strongback Wheelchairs: More Lumbar Support, Less Pain.
6. High-Back Reclining Wheelchair
A high-back reclining wheelchair allows for easier reclining to a 180-degree position from a 90-degree sitting posture, which enhances comfort and blood flow.
For wheelchair users who need extra support owing to breathing issues, poor trunk or core stability, severe arthritis, quadriplegia, severe multiple sclerosis, or muscular dystrophy, this repositioning support is excellent.
7. Lightweight Wheelchair
Lightweight wheelchairs are typically less than 50 pounds, manual in construction, and built primarily of aluminium, however they can also contain steel and other metals. They are lighter for carers to push and easier for riders to manoeuvre and propel. Lightweight wheelchairs are also easily portable, and many of them can be folded down to fit inside a car. Visit The 5 Best Lightweight Manual Wheelchairs to see our top sellers.
8. Self-propelled Manual Wheelchair
For more information about manual wheelchairs and our top products, visit our post The 5 Best Manual Wheelchairs. Manual wheelchairs, the most popular variety, can be pushed by a friend or carer or must be self-propelled by the user. They have larger rear wheels that are easier for the user to grasp and push, and occasionally they include a handle or attendant bar on the back for simpler control for the carer.
9. Pool Wheelchair :
Made of non-corrosive materials, pool access wheelchairs are simpler to maintain than regular wheelchairs around water, bright sunlight, and humidity. Pool wheelchairs are frequently used to enable access for persons in public pools and spas. They include wheels that are particularly made so they won't scratch or mark the ground, and they are made to dry rapidly.
10. Power Wheelchair :
Using battery systems and electric motors, power wheelchairs are ideal for persons who are unable to push manual wheelchairs. A power wheelchair, also known as an electric wheelchair, EPW (Electric-Powered Wheelchair), or motorised wheelchair, allows users to move around both indoors and outdoors with ease and is an excellent option for those who require more physical exertion.
11. Sports Wheelchair:
Sports wheelchairs include unique safety features along with strengthened and heavy-duty construction to resist athletic and competitive sports applications. Sports wheelchairs come in a wide range of frame configurations that are specially designed to meet the varied needs of different sports. Despite their sturdy construction, they are frequently incredibly light for better manoeuvrability.
12. Stand-Up Wheelchair :
A stand-up wheelchair is a medical gadget that uses cutting-edge technology and thoughtful design to allow wheelchair users to stand up securely. Standing wheelchairs allow for significantly simpler transitions from sitting to standing positions, sometimes without the need for carer help, and are advised for anyone with mild to severe disability. Standing frames aid in the prevention of health problems frequently linked to prolonged and extended sitting positions, helping wheelchair users improve and maintain their health.
13. Tilt-in-Space Wheelchair:
Tilt-in-space wheelchairs offer outstanding pressure relief, help to disperse the weight of the wheelchair user, and offer different positioning to promote health and comfort. The tilt-in-space design allows the user adjust themselves at various angles to optimise comfort and support healthy bodily processes since when sitting upright, a significant percentage of body weight is placed on the buttocks, back, and back of the thighs, which can cause discomfort for prolonged periods of time.
14. Transport Wheelchairs :
Used for a variety of mobility needs, these wheelchairs are made to be pushed by a carer or attendant. They are typically used to carry patients inside medical, rehab, or care institutions. They are built with smaller wheels that the person would not be able to self-propel. Transport chairs typically weigh much less and have designs that are simpler for a carer or companion to move.
15. Ultra-Lightweight Wheelchair :
Lightweight manual wheelchairs are simpler for users to move around, propel themselves, and travel with, as well as being easier for companions or carers to transport and store. Ultra-lightweight wheelchairs, which often weigh less than 25 pounds, are a terrific option for riders who are more energetic since they are much easier to turn and steer.