Wheelchair Education 101 Which One is Right for You?

Wheelchair Education 101 Which One is Right for You?

A wheelchair is a device that helps with mobility and has wheels to aid movement. These devices offer freedom to individuals who have difficulties in walking around or those who have disabilities or injuries. Often wheelchairs offer handles that different people to push the device. The basic design of a wheelchair comprises a seat, a footrest, along with four wheels. It is an assistive device that offers disabled people a taste of freedom. Today, there are various designs of wheelchairs with advanced features that allow users to have a wholesome experience. It enables them to be independent even while using as an assistive device. Our quick guide will help give you an overview of the wheelchair buying process. We will discuss some major factors to consider before buying these devices along with other crucial information that will help you pick out the right wheelchair.

How Much Support Do You Need From A Wheelchair?

Be aware that not all individuals are 24/7 dependent on the wheelchair. While some use the device as a means of supplementary transport, others use them for a majority of their waking time. For those individuals who spend a lot of their time in a wheelchair, a device with the latest supportive and safety features is a must. They can include a comfortable seat, additional support, customized fit, and skin protection among others. On the other hand, if you won't be using the wheelchair for too long, a basic manual wheelchair should work. Alternatively, the amount of support from a wheelchair depends on your mobility levels. If your levels are low and have difficulty supporting your body, a chair with added safety and support options is necessary. In addition, if you need less support, consider a lightweight wheelchair. How long do you plan to use the assistive wheelchair? Is it a permanent addition or a temporary solution? How much can I support my body? Knowing these will help pick out the right wheelchair as per requirements.  

What Are The Measurements Of Your Body?

The secret to getting an accurate wheelchair is to take body measurements initially. It is crucial to know the weight, size, and other similar factors of the desired wheelchair. This will give you a clear idea of how well the chair can support your body weight. Choosing the right wheelchair requires an exact understanding of factors like comfort, weight capacity, and postures. Furthermore, the wheelchair should not only fit well presently but also work effortlessly well in the future. It is best to buy one that lasts long rather than having to buy a new one always. Though these measurements may not sound like a great idea for short-term use, weight and height requirements are a must. There are several types and sizes of wheelchairs available online as well as in the market today. Let's quickly go through them all. There are bariatric wheelchairs specially designed for overweight individuals. Such wheelchairs have a heavy-duty construction. People who are heavier than the usual can comfortably sit and move around in these wheelchairs. Additionally, they also comprise advanced safety and support options. Plus, all these features offer a stable environment for the user. Subsequently, the next type of wheelchair is pediatric. As the name suggests, these chairs are specifically designed for children. They are easily configurable as the child grows. This eliminates the need of buying a new chair frequently for your child. To find the best pediatric wheelchairs, you need to be aware of factors like the type of support, adaptations, comfort, and safety. Furthermore, there are various customizable wheelchairs for both adults and children. This allows you to choose the right chair specific to your needs. Alongside, be aware and research well on the type of accessories to help with mobility and comfort. Wheelchairs with adjustable features are also a good choice that assists with height and width features.

Is There A Right Fit Wheelchair For Your Body Measurements?

It is surprising to know that a majority of wheelchair owners do not own a wheelchair that is specific to their body needs. Choosing the wrong wheelchair can lead to future medical problems. Thus, it is recommended to purchase the right wheelchair to improve posture and mobility. A wheelchair must have the proper fit. Else, it can lead to trouble with breathing, swallowing, digestion, hip, and pelvic issues. Additionally, if wheelchairs are a permanent addition, an improper fit can cause discomfort and other health troubles. While purchasing a wheelchair, it is best to follow the 90-90-90 rule. The rule states a 90-degree bend in the hips, knees, and ankles. The sitting position should be comfortable with an upright posture. Avoiding bending over while in a wheelchair.

What Factors Do You Need To Consider For Choosing A Wheelchair?

• Footrest Length and Style:A footrest usually comes with adjustable features. This is because the user's legs should not be unsupported. Having an adjustable footrest allows you to adjust it as per your requirements. Also, if the user has swelling or pain, it can be adjusted with ease.
• Armrest Height: Wheelchairs offer adjustable armrests that allow you to set it up as per the right fit. The user's arms should rest naturally over the armrests in a comfortable position. It shouldn't be placed too high or too low.
• Back Height:For users with low mobility, use a full-length backrest. If necessary, get a headrest too. Alternatively, users with better mobility levels can opt for a lower-length backrest. This allows for better movement and comfort.
• Seat Height:Seat height is a crucial factor in determining the best wheelchair for a user. The seat height depends on if the user uses his/her feet for movement. In such cases, the height of the seat should be low. This way the user can reach their heels below and move around.
• Seat Depth:An uncomfortable seat depth can cause blood vessel constriction in the legs. This is why the wheelchair you choose needs to have a comfortable seat depth for the user's convenience.
• Seat Width:The wheelchair should have a seat width that is not restrictive. It should comfortably accommodate the hips. But they shouldn't be too wide where you will need to struggle while self-propelled. Wide seat width can lead to an unhealthy posture and future health issues. Hence, choose a wheelchair that has an accurate seat width. It shouldn't be too tight to too wide as well.

Do You Need A Portable Wheelchair?

Portable wheelchairs come with a huge set of benefits for the user as well as the caregivers as well. Folding or portable wheelchairs are the ideal choices for older people. Such chairs offer freedom and flexibility to the user where they can propel themselves. Let's dive deeper and look at the advantages of having a portable wheelchair. Individuals of all ages who have low mobility can be easily transported with the help of portable wheelchairs. Such chairs have a collapsible frame. This means that the chair can be easily taken up and down the stairs, put in a car, or travel by airplane. Additionally, if the user travels often, a portable wheelchair is the best addition. Since they are usually lightweight, travel by, plane or bus is simple. They are easily foldable and allow for hassle-free transportation. Portable wheelchairs usually have big wheels at the back. This allows for easy movement. Besides, these are perfect to use around tight spaces like homes or offices. Unlike the traditional bulky models, these chairs are easy to maneuver. Steering isn't as tough as compared to the heavier models of chairs. In addition, people using wheelchairs love their independence. And using a portable device allows them a bit of freedom. It allows easier transportation and boosts their independence. Moreover, it gives the user flexibility as well. Though there are many ways that a wheelchair can be restrictive, getting a portable one opens new doors to freedom. It gives the user to take control of their life without having to be dependent on others all the time. To add to that, some advanced portable wheelchairs boast lap trays and drink holders. Such features offer convenience to the user. Furthermore, lightweight chairs are suitable for everyday activities and other personal requirements. One of the best advantages of having a compact wheelchair is that you can store them anywhere easily. They are ideal to use for daily needs and allow easy storage without making any congestion. In addition, in case of travel, all you need to do is pack them up and get going. It enables hassle-free daily living which is why a compact lightweight wheelchair is the best choice.

What Are The Different Types Of Wheelchairs?

Wheelchairs have evolved ever since they were first made. The designs have largely advanced and manufactured as per the changing needs of the user. Today, there are distinct types of wheelchairs. From simple to electric and manual, there are major developments in the same. Below, we discuss the various types of wheelchairs available in the market. So, without wasting any further time, let's get started.Manual Wheelchair: Manual wheelchairs are traditional wheelchairs that are powered by the user's hand. The user grabs the handle of the chair to move forward, backward, or stop it. Additionally, these wheelchairs can also be pushed by others using the handles at the back of the chair. In manual wheelchairs, there are two categories. While the first type is the portable ones, the other is the heavy-duty chairs. While portable chairs are easier for transportation, heavy-duty chairs are sturdier and more durable. These kinds of wheelchairs are suitable for people who can manage them independently. However, a major drawback of this wheelchair is that users get tired soon while traveling long distances. Plus, the constant use of wheelchairs can cause health problems as well. If the user doesn't spend time standing, it can lead to dangerous health problems at a later period.Positioning Wheelchairs: Positioning wheelchairs allow the user to maneuver the device into different positions. Usually, these wheelchairs are battery-powered or electric. There are different styles and types of positioning wheelchairs. For instance, some chairs can lower or raise the user's legs. Others have a reclining backward.   Also, some enable the user to tilt in space. While some chairs offer a variety of positioning, others offer just one kind. These types of wheelchairs are suitable for users who have less mobility. They are perfect to engage the user's body and offer movement. Another benefit of positioning wheelchairs is that it allows for better blood circulation.All-Terrain Wheelchair: This kind of chair is specially designed for travel enthusiasts. They are available in adapting shapes and sizes. Not to forget, the power and size of these wheelchairs are amazing. It has amazing advanced features like larger wheels and extended support that's perfect for travel. These features help with movement over uneven grounds. Interestingly, there are some wheelchairs with tank treads that plow obstacles through the track. With balloon-style wheels and extra suspension support, this beast for perfect for outdoor adventures. Though these wheelchairs are on the heavier side, they can travel where other wheelchairs cannot. Also, they are difficult to transport but they are reliable and sturdy as compared to others.Standing Power Wheelchairs: One of the most impressive technological wonders is the standing power wheelchairs. These chairs allow the user to move from a sitting position to a standing position automatically. Additionally, these wheelchairs allow the user to travel the world with a motorized wheelbase. People with mobility impairments can easily use this chair. Furthermore, the human body needs to stand upright for a while at least. Lack of standing can lead to multiple health issues. This is why these wheelchairs offer many health benefits as it allows the user to switch positions with ease. Users can stand to grab items, interact with others, do certain chores and perform other activities. Similarly, the standing wheelchairs do combine some functionalities from other wheelchairs to offer convenience to the user.

Bottom Line

The bottom line is if you have read up to this section, then you are now a knowledgeable person about wheelchairs. So, be sure to choose the right one that fits all your needs.