Buying a Wheelchair: Enhancing Your Mobility and Comfort
Wheelchairs and other walking aids help aged or physically challenged individuals gain independence and engage in various activities with minimal assistance. But what should wheelchair buyers know before placing their orders? Wheelchairs are relatively expensive, so every buyer should strive to pick a perfect one. Generally, the right wheelchair depends on the user’s unique needs, where they intend to use it, and the necessary features. However, a reliable wheelchair should enhance mobility, comfort, and independence. This post highlights a few important considerations to guide potential buyers.
Accessibility and Portability
These are critical aspects that can determine the most appropriate wheelchair type. For instance, if users have a small living space or travel regularly, they should invest in a portable, foldable wheelchair. Therefore, when buying a wheelchair, consider the environment where the user spends most of their time, including the door sizes and stairs. The weight is also critical since heavy wheelchairs are difficult to fold and carry.
Types of Wheelchairs
Manual wheelchairs are the most affordable and popular for valid reasons. Users grab the rims with their hands and push the wheelchair forward or backward to perform a specific activity. Manual wheelchairs are ideal for active people with healthy hands, especially young people. Most manual wheelchairs have lightweight titanium rims that allow superior performance and easy movement.
Manual wheelchairs are available in different designs. For example, one can choose an ergonomic wheelchair, which seeks to protect the back and the lower abdomen. Recliner wheelchairs allow users to adjust the inclination angle to enhance comfort and address lower back pain. People who engage in sports should invest in sports wheelchairs, which are typically lightweight and have precision control features.
Power wheelchairs and scooters are the other options buyers can consider. They are usually more expensive and come with joysticks, head control, or sip-and-puff technology for easy control. Some manufacturers are willing to customize their wheelchairs for different purposes.
Wheelchair Batteries and Accessories
Wheelchair buyers can consider gel batteries, lead-acid batteries, and absorbent glass mat batteries, among other options. Each battery option offers unique positive and negative aspects. For example, the lead-acid battery is cheap but requires special handling and many maintenance practices. Gel batteries are durable and have low maintenance but are expensive. Absorbent glass mat batteries are the most expensive but durable and can provide energy for a long time after charging.
One of the crucial accessories wheelchair users might need is frog legs, which absorb shock and allow easy movement, especially on rough surfaces. Some users also need ramps, cushions, brake extensions, wheelchair lifts, phone holders, back support, and extension handles. Therefore, buyers should pick a reliable wheelchair that can support the necessary accessories required for the user to lead a productive and comfortable life.
Comfort
Wheelchair users should be able to spend time in the wheelchair without significant challenges. Therefore, the height, width, material, and depth should be comfortable enough for the user. The armrests and backrests should offer adequate support when moving or resting. Besides, the wheelchair should not be too small or too big for the user since this affects comfort and reliability.
Choosing the right wheelchair requires careful consideration of several factors, including user lifestyle, budget, comfort, portability, and relevant accessories. Therefore, the buyer should compare different wheelchairs and apply the tips in this guide to pick one that enhances their mobility, comfort, and independence.
