Guest Author - Monica J. Foster
Wheelchairs are relatively simple mobility aids compared to scooters and power chairs. Still, there are important factors to consider when choosing your next wheelchair.
Different people will have different needs for their wheelchair. Someone who uses a wheelchair full-time will need a different type of wheelchair compared to someone who only uses one occasionally for getting around out shopping or travelling.
Manual wheelchairs have large side-mounted wheels and are usually pushed by the user, but have the capability of being pushed by a loved one or caregiver.
People are different sizes and shapes with different conditions needing support, so wheelchairs are available with different seat widths. It is important that your wheelchair seat is the right size to achieve the right amount of comfort and support you need. Choosing the wrong size could result in back and leg pain, pressure sores and other issues, to name a few. A wheelchair should make your life easier, not harder.
Most manual wheelchairs can be folded from the seat for easy storage in a closet or car trunk. Measure your trunk so you know how much space you have to work with, too. Some wheelchairs have a folding back, which helps to reduce the size of the folded wheelchair. Most self propelled and transit models have quick release wheels which makes transportation easier.
The leg and arm rests can also be removed on some models depending on your needs. The heavier a wheelchair is, the heavier it will be to push, and the more difficult it will be to put in and take out of a car. Titanium wheelchairs are lighter weight than steel wheelchairs, but a little more expensive, but the weight difference when pushing or transporting the wheelchair will make a huge difference in your level of independence and mobility.
Some models of wheelchair are highly customizable, and the size and type of rear wheels, front castors and arm rests can be specified so that the wheelchair meets the exact needs of the user. Often a manual wheelchair will have height-adjustable rear wheels, which means that the wheels can be fitted in the optimum position for the user. Having the wheels in the best position helps you push more easily.
Most wheelchairs have removable armrests so that transferring to and from the wheelchair is a much easier endeavor for you. Some wheelchairs also have height adjustable armrests so that the most comfortable and supportive position can be easily found whether or not you are sitting at a desk or table while in your chair. Adjustable leg rests are found on most models, and also ensure that the user is in the most comfortable position. Anti-roll wheels are fitted as standard on many wheelchairs and provide extra security when going over curbs and bumps.
Some newer models have available a motor or power assist wheels that will turn most traditional wheelchairs into a power wheelchair to minimize arm and shoulder strain or assist those with manual dexterity problems. This can be of real benefit if the terrain is rough or hilly. Because the motor does most of the work, your or a caregiver don't have to push quite so hard to get you around.
The wheelchair power pack varies in range, but most are good for rolling around the mall, the fairgrounds or flea market. If required, the power pack can be removed quickly and easily, so the chair can be easily folded for transport again.
When choosing your wheelchair think about the following:
•Check with your doctor and insurance company for the types of wheelchairs that they think fit your needs and are approved for purchase
•Borrow a wheelchair from a friend before you buy to see which you like best and get to know different features
•Places like hospitals, the Red Cross, or your local shopping mall will let you borrow wheelchairs while you shop for free
•Wheelchairs / scooters can be very expensive. Look on the Internet, in your local newspaper and disability-friendly ads for second hand ones
•Find out if your church or local community service groups help people with disabilities purchase medical equipment, such as a wheelchair
•Ask how customizable the wheelchair you choose is from the vendor, so that if your condition or body goes through changes, the chair’s parts will grow and change with you
•Don't go out on your own until you know how to use your chair safely
•Think about your favorite color and consider a wheelchair in that color if the company offers it to personalize your wheelchair to you
•If you have the luxury, don’t wait to look for a wheelchair when you need it yesterday, because you will not always make a right decision under pressure
•If you have to make a quick decision because of your condition, do as much research and ask as many questions as you can
•Do plan for the most independence possible in terms of how the wheelchair works for you
