5 key things you need to consider before making this purchase
Wheelchairs are amazing; they help people with limited mobility regain independence, and allow those recovering from surgeries to get on with their day to day lives.
If you are in need of a new wheelchair, for whatever reason, and you are in your chair most of the time, there are a few things you need to consider before you get a new one. While some people may be looking to purchase a more sturdy, heavy duty chair, you may be looking to compare lightweight wheelchairs nationwide but remember, there are design differences that can make your new chair a handy mobility tool or a real hindrance.
Time in the chair
As previously mentioned, some people may rely on their chairs for everyday mobility, whereas others may only need them to recover from an operation; depending on this, and other factors, you need to consider how much time each day you will be spending in your chair.
If you need your chair to maneuverer around your home for a couple of hours each day, you may consider purchasing a lightweight wheelchair, from a reliable store. Everyone has different needs and specific requirements when it comes to something like this. So, if you need a chair with a bit more automotive functionality that can handle rough terrain every day, for several hours, you may need a more robust model (similar to the best tilt in space wheelchairs) that is also comfortable and can be personalised.
Purpose of the chair
A similar point to the first one, where you will use your chair needs to be explored.
If you will be going out and about on roads and in shops, you will probably want a smaller, lighter model that is easy to maneuver around corners.
If you live in a rural area, you will probably want a chair with sturdy tyres that can change between different terrains, while also being light.
Your physical health and needs
When you are weaker or frailer, you don’t want to be faced with the responsibility of moving a heavy wheelchair around manually.
This is an opportunity to discuss how much strength you have and a family member, or carer, can help you decide what you need from your wheelchair and what you can physically manage yourself.
Portable aspects
Do you have a car? Do you like shopping?
If you can walk a few steps unassisted, you will probably be after a chair that is collapsible and can be placed in the the boot of your car, without too much effort to take it out again. For those of you who cannot walk at all, there are a plethora of options available, from wheelchair-accessible vans and lifts to handicap driving controls for cars. The latter would allow you to drive yourself anywhere you wish, providing newfound independence.
Managing your new chair
If you have a carer who will be pushing you around in your new chair, you need to consider their ease of use; if they are unable to push you after a certain point, you may want to look into a chair with an automatic and manual combination. You also need to ensure that your carer can easily clean your chair and perform maintenance without too much effort.
