Finding the perfect wheelchair or mobility aids equipment can be overwhelming. There are too many options, and they vary widely in price. How do you choose the right chair?
Wheelchairs are designed to support mobility and independence. They come in various styles, sizes, and prices. The type of wheelchair you select depends on your personal preferences, budget, and lifestyle.
There are several things to consider before buying a new wheelchair. For example, you should look at the size and style of the seat, whether or not it has handrails and its overall comfort level. You also need to make sure that it will fit into your home comfortably.
The best way to decide which model is best for you is by visiting an occupational therapy (OT) clinic. OTs, specialize in helping you choose a wheelchair that meets your personal needs and your ability levels. They can advise you about any special requirements such as height-adjustable seats, handles, brakes, etc.
If you’re looking for more information about finding the right wheelchair, here are some helpful tips:
- Be clear on what you want from your wheelchair — does it have to be stylish, practical, and durable?
- Do you want a manual or a power-operated one?
- Does it need to accommodate your leg braces?
- Some models offer features like built-in cup holders or side pockets for storing items. These may help you get around easier or keep you organized during travel.
- Make sure you know exactly how much space you’ll need in your house to put the wheelchair. If you live in an apartment building or condo, check with management first so you don’t run afoul of their policies on installing mobility devices.
Don’t forget that purchasing a wheelchair isn’t just a purchase; it’s an investment in yourself. Your new wheelchair will serve you well for years to come, but if you buy something cheap or simply settle for the first thing you see, you might regret it later.
You can use a variety of techniques to identify the best wheelchair for your needs. Here are five questions to ask to find the most suitable option:
What’s your primary goal when choosing a wheelchair? Are you trying to achieve maximum stability, maneuverability, comfort, safety, or convenience?
Does your existing wheelchair meet your needs? What’s wrong with it? Is it uncomfortable?
Can it handle certain activities you’d like to perform without difficulty? Or are you limited by certain parts of it?
Do you need this wheelchair to be safe? Safety is critical because you risk injury if you aren’t using a wheelchair carefully. Check out the manufacturer’s proper maintenance and repair guidelines to avoid accidents.
Would you prefer a manual or powered wheelchair? Manual ones require no battery changes and cost less than electric units. However, they are harder to operate. Powered models allow you to adjust the speed and torque easily, making them ideal for daily living.
Manual Wheelchairs
A manual wheelchair allows its user to propel him or herself using his or her own two hands. Unlike standard electric wheelchairs, which use motors and batteries, manual wheelchairs rely solely on the strength of the user to move about. Because this method requires no additional power source, manual wheelchairs can be used anywhere.
Plus, they’re usually much less expensive than powered ones. However, it should be noted that manual wheelchairs do not offer full support like those made with springs. This means that when used over long periods of time, such as at night or during long trips, the user will need to be careful not to fall out of bed or jump into the vehicle.
Would you like to own a comfortable chair? Many chairs are too stiff, bulky, and heavy to move around. A lightweight chair is easy to transport. It’s important to ensure that your chair fits you properly.
Is there anything else I should consider before deciding on a new wheelchair? Certain factors play a role in your decision-making process. Let’s examine these in detail below.
Your Mobility Needs
No matter which type of wheelchair you choose, each one comes equipped with different features to accommodate your specific needs. For example, a lightweight wheelchair is better suited for indoor use while a heavier model is designed to be used outdoors.
Similarly, a high back seat is recommended for those who need extra support, whereas lower backs provide more freedom. Likewise, models that are narrow in width are good for short-distance travel while wider ones are good for longer trips. In addition, you can also consider different seating options such as swivel seats, reclining seats, and folding seats.
Choosing The Right Wheelchair
When shopping for a wheelchair, it’s important to understand your needs before deciding on a particular model. In other words, before buying a wheelchair, you must make sure that your physical condition allows you to use it safely.
Here are a few things you should look at first:
The amount of time you spend sitting in your wheelchair every day. Most people sit for eight hours a day – so how much time would you want to spend seated comfortably every day?
If you have health conditions, such as arthritis or spina bifida, then you’ll probably benefit from a higher backrest height. This helps relieve pressure on your spine and reduces your chance of developing pressure sores.
Your ability to transfer into and out of the chair. Will you be able to get into and out of the vehicle easily? If not, look at a model where the wheels are removable. Some models even include a hand grip for easier transfers.
Whether you’re a frequent user of public transportation. You’ll likely need a model that has an automatic transmission. If you commute frequently, consider choosing a model with a lower centre of gravity (weight distribution). This will reduce your chances of tipping over when pushing yourself along.
Your budget. Do you have enough money to buy the required wheelchair? Be realistic about costs – some manufacturers offer financing options to help defray the upfront costs.
To determine whether your current wheelchair meets all of your needs, here are some questions you may ask yourself:
Can you reach your bathroom sink or shower faucet easily? Are you able to turn off the water taps when bathing? Can you use the toilet or urinal?
Are you able to enter and exit the bathtub or shower easily? How comfortable do you feel using the handles and grab bars provided by the manufacturer?
Does your existing wheelchair meet all of your mobility requirements? Are the size and shape suitable for you?
Do you want to adjust the seat height, angle, tilt, recline, lumbar support, footrests, armrests, headrest, and foot braces?
Do you want a manual or power wheelchair? What kind of electric motor and drive system does the wheelchair come with?
What accessories are available for your current wheelchair? Does the brand you want offer any additional features such as hand controls or cup holders?
Do you need a wheelchair lift? How many steps can you climb without assistance?
Are you looking for a wheelchair that folds up easily? Some models are compact, making them easy to carry around in your car trunk or home garage. Many also fold flat, allowing you to store them in a closet or cabinet.
Mobility Aids Equipment
Mobility aids equipment offers a wide range of online stores offering everything you need for people with disabilities. From upper-body assist devices to powered wheelchairs, mobility aids equipment has something for everyone. Choose from a variety of mobility equipment including scooters, walkers, and canes. There are even stair lifts and ramps to help you access anything and everything.
People with disabilities require special types of mobility aid equipment according to their individual needs. Whether they have a neurological disorder like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy, or they just prefer a more upright seating position, there is nothing stopping these individuals from accessing the things they wish to enjoy.
The type of mobility aid needed depends on the activity being performed and one’s physical capabilities. For example, if someone with a spinal cord injury wants to go outside, he or she might choose a wheelchair as opposed to a crutch.
Occupational Therapists
People with disabilities often require occupational therapy services from certified therapists. These professionals provide guidance in developing activities for daily living that promote independence.
They work closely with other members of the healthcare team including doctors, nurses, and rehabilitation specialists who specialize in working with people with disabilities. Occupational therapists assess clients’ abilities, learn what they want to accomplish, and then design an appropriate plan to ensure success.
They may recommend exercises, modifications, adaptations, or modifications to equipment. And, because each patient receives personal care, occupational therapists tailor treatments to suit the client’s needs.
Medical Devices
Medical devices allow people with certain health conditions to live longer, happier lives. A medical device is any piece of equipment used by a doctor or nurse to diagnose, treat, prevent, monitor, or manage a disease or condition.
Most medical devices are designed specifically to treat specific diseases. In fact, some devices are so effective that they allow patients to avoid surgery altogether. Depending on the condition, the medical device chosen may be permanently implanted in the body or removable. Other medical devices are temporary; they stay in place only while healing takes place.
Mobility Aids Equipment includes:
Wheelchairs
Scooters
Manual Wheelchairs
Powered wheelchairs
Stair Lifts
Ramps and Brakes
Seating Systems
Walking Cane
Walkers
Canes
Crutches
Bathroom Safety Products