Confused about buying the right wheelchair? Don't worry, We will guide you through every step you need to know whether you are a beginner wheelchair user or looking to upgrade your current one. No fancy words, just straightforward info to get you rolling in the right direction before buying a wheelchair.
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When it comes to choosing a wheelchair, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is whether you want a manual or electric wheelchair. Manual wheelchairs are propelled by the user or a caregiver, using their own strength to move the chair. They are generally more affordable and lightweight, making them easier to transport. Electric wheelchairs, on the other hand, are powered by a battery and can be operated with a joystick or other control mechanisms. They are ideal for individuals who may have limited upper body strength or mobility. Electric wheelchairs offer greater independence and are especially useful for longer distances. However, they tend to be heavier and more expensive than manual wheelchairs. Ultimately, the choice between a manual or electric wheelchair depends on your specific needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Before diving into the world of wheelchairs, it's important to consider several factors that will influence your decision. First and foremost, you need to assess your mobility needs. Do you require a wheelchair for full-time use or just for occasional use? Are you planning to use it indoors or outdoors? Will you need to navigate uneven terrains or steep inclines? Answering these questions will help determine the type of wheelchair that suits your needs best. Additionally, it's crucial to consider your body size and weight capacity. Wheelchairs come in various sizes and weight limits, so it's essential to choose a wheelchair that can comfortably accommodate your body type. Furthermore, think about the level of comfort and support you require. Some wheelchairs offer adjustable seating options, including backrests, armrests, and footrests, which can significantly enhance your comfort. Finally, don't forget to take into account your budget and any insurance coverage you may have. Wheelchair prices can vary greatly, so it's important to set a realistic budget and explore insurance options if applicable.
Choosing a WheelchairIf you are looking for a wheelchair, there are several features to consider.
The first thing to look at is whether the chair has features that make it easier for you to get around. These may include hand controls, footrests, or levers. If you have trouble getting around, then you should consider purchasing a chair that has these features. You want to make sure that you can easily move around without having to struggle.
you need to think about how big the chair is. A bigger chair means that you can sit farther back and still feel comfortable. However, if you are short, then you might find yourself feeling cramped. Make sure that you choose a chair that fits well and feels right.
You also need to think about the height of the seat. Do you prefer a higher or lower seat? Higher seats mean that you can reach things further away, while lower seats mean that you can rest your feet on the ground.
Armrests are great for resting your arms. They help keep your hands free and give you something to hold onto. Armrests are especially helpful if you are using a manual wheelchair.
Wheels are great for moving around. They allow you to go anywhere you want to go. You don't have to worry about bumping into anything or falling over.
Brakes are great for stopping. They let you stop wherever you want to stop. Brakes are especially useful if you are going downstairs or ramps.
Hand controls are great for controlling the chair. They let you control the speed and direction of the chair. Hand controls are especially helpful if you have arthritis or other conditions that affect your hands.
Getting the right size wheelchair is crucial for both comfort and functionality. To determine the correct size, you'll need to take accurate measurements. Start by measuring the width of your hips, as this will determine the seat width. Measure from one hip to the other while seated, and add a couple of inches to allow for some extra room. Next, measure the length of your lower leg from the back of your knee to the sole of your foot. This will help determine the seat depth. It's important to ensure that your feet can comfortably rest on the footrests without feeling cramped. Additionally, measure the height from the seat to the top of your head to determine the seat height. This measurement is crucial, as it will allow you to maneuver your wheelchair easily and comfortably under tables or desks. Finally, consider the overall weight and dimensions of the wheelchair, particularly if you plan to transport it frequently. Taking accurate measurements will ensure that you find a wheelchair that fits you perfectly and provides optimal support and mobility.
Picking the right wheelchair size is mostly about how wide you need the seat to be. The seat size affects how the wheelchair looks and what other features it has. Usually, seats are between 16 to 20 inches wide, and most are around 18 inches wide.
Wheelchairs come with a wide range of features and options designed to meet the diverse needs of users. Understanding these features will help you make an informed decision and choose a wheelchair that aligns with your specific requirements. Some common features to consider include:
1. Frame Material: Wheelchair frames are typically made of steel, aluminum, or titanium. Steel frames are sturdy but heavy, while aluminum frames are lightweight and more portable. Titanium frames offer the best of both worlds - lightness and durability - but come at a higher cost.
2. Wheel Type: The type of wheels on a wheelchair can significantly impact maneuverability. Standard wheelchairs come with solid rubber tires, which are durable but provide a rougher ride. Pneumatic or air-filled tires offer a smoother ride but require more maintenance. Additionally, some wheelchairs feature larger rear wheels for increased stability and better outdoor performance.
3. Brakes: Wheelchair brakes are essential for safety and control. Most wheelchairs come with manual brakes that can be operated by the user or a caregiver. Some electric wheelchairs have automatic brakes that engage when the joystick is released. Consider your needs and abilities when choosing the type of brakes that work best for you.
4. Seating Options: Wheelchair seating options include different types of cushions, backrests, and armrests. These features can significantly impact your comfort and posture. Cushions come in various materials, such as foam or gel, and can provide pressure relief for individuals who spend long hours in a wheelchair. Adjustable backrests and armrests allow for personalized support and comfort.
5. Footrests: Footrests are an essential component of a wheelchair, providing support and stability for the legs. Some wheelchairs offer swing-away or detachable footrests, allowing for easier transfers in and out of the chair. Others feature elevating leg rests, which are beneficial for individuals with leg or foot injuries.
To enhance your comfort and mobility, there are a variety of accessories and customization options available for wheelchairs. Accessories can range from simple additions like cup holders or storage pouches to more advanced features like power-assisted wheels or seat elevators. Consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing accessories. For example, if you spend a lot of time outdoors, you may benefit from a weather-resistant cover or off-road tires. If you use a wheelchair for work or school, a laptop tray or book holder could be useful. Additionally, you can personalize your wheelchair with colour choices or custom upholstery. Remember that accessories and customization can add to the overall cost of your wheelchair, so it's important to budget accordingly.
When it comes to purchasing a wheelchair, you have the option to buy from online retailers or brick-and-mortar stores. Both options have their pros and cons. Online retailers often offer a wider selection of wheelchairs, and you can conveniently compare prices and features from the comfort of your home. However, it's essential to do thorough research and read customer reviews to ensure the reliability and quality of the product. Brick-and-mortar stores, such as medical supply stores or mobility equipment providers, allow you to try out different wheelchairs and receive personalized assistance from trained professionals. This can be particularly beneficial if you're unsure about the specific features or sizing of the wheelchair. Additionally, in-person stores may offer repair and maintenance services. Whichever option you choose, make sure to consider factors like warranty, return policy, and after-sales support.
Wheelchair prices can vary widely depending on the type, features, and brand. Manual wheelchairs generally range from a hundred to a few thousand pounds, while electric wheelchairs can cost several thousand pounds or more. It's essential to set a realistic budget and explore your insurance coverage options. Insurance plans, such as Medicare or private health insurance, may provide coverage for wheelchairs under certain conditions. However, coverage eligibility and reimbursement processes can be complex, so it's advisable to consult with your insurance provider directly to understand the specifics. Keep in mind that even if insurance covers a portion of the cost, you may still be responsible for deductibles or co-pays. If you're purchasing a wheelchair without insurance coverage, consider exploring financing options or second-hand wheelchairs to find a more affordable solution.
Proper maintenance and regular upkeep are essential to ensure the longevity and functionality of your wheelchair. Some basic maintenance tasks include regularly cleaning the wheelchair frame and upholstery, checking the tire pressure, and lubricating moving parts. It's also important to inspect the brakes and any electrical components on electric wheelchairs. Additionally, you may need to periodically replace worn-out parts, such as tires or cushions, to maintain optimal performance. If you're not comfortable performing maintenance tasks yourself, you can seek assistance from a professional wheelchair repair service or your local mobility equipment provider. Remember, regular maintenance can help prevent costly repairs in the long run and keep your wheelchair in top condition.
Choosing the right wheelchair can significantly impact your comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
1. Consult with a Healthcare Professional: If you're unsure about your specific needs or have medical considerations, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, such as an occupational therapist or physical therapist. They can provide valuable insight and recommendations based on your unique circumstances.
2. Test Drive: If possible, try out different wheelchairs before making a final decision. This will allow you to assess the comfort, maneuverability, and ease of use of each wheelchair. Pay attention to factors such as seat width, cushioning, and ease of propulsion.
3. Consider Future Needs: It's important to think about your future needs when choosing a wheelchair. Will your mobility requirements change over time? Are you likely to need additional accessories or features in the future? Choosing a wheelchair that can accommodate potential changes can save you from having to upgrade too soon.
4. Read Reviews: Before purchasing a wheelchair, read customer reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the experiences of other users. Pay attention to factors like durability, customer support, and overall satisfaction.
5. Warranty and After-Sales Support: Check the warranty and after-sales support offered by the manufacturer or retailer. A comprehensive warranty and reliable customer support can give you peace of mind knowing that you'll receive assistance if any issues arise.
Remember, choosing a wheelchair is a personal decision, and what works for one person may not work for another. Take the time to research, explore your options, and prioritize your specific needs and preferences.
Finding the perfect wheelchair that meets your needs and enhances your independence is an important decision. By understanding the different types of wheelchairs, considering your specific needs, and exploring the available features and accessories, you can make an informed choice. Remember to take accurate measurements, explore your customization options, and consider your budget and insurance coverage. Whether you choose a manual or electric wheelchair, the right wheelchair will empower you to navigate the world with confidence and comfort. We hope this ultimate wheelchair buying guide has equipped you with the knowledge and guidance you need to embark on your journey to finding the perfect wheelchair that will enhance your independence and improve your quality of life.
I hope this guide will answer most of your questions about wheelchair buying. If you have any more questions you can call one of our mobility experts at 595 or visit our Mobility Shop website for product-related details.
A wheelchair is a chair with wheels, used when walking is difficult or impossible due to illness, injury, problems related to old age, or disability. They offer full-body support and long-term comfort that many people can benefit from by using.
If you have trouble walking without help and get tired after just a few steps, a wheelchair could be helpful for you. Even if you can walk with some assistance, like from a friend, family member, or a cane, but find it hard to cover long distances, a wheelchair might still be beneficial.
If you think a wheelchair could improve your ability to move around, it's essential to talk to your therapist, GP or our mobility experts about your mobility challenges. During this process, they will assess your needs and might recommend a wheelchair if it's suitable for you.
Sometimes, It can be hard to decide when they even need a wheelchair. If you are unable to walk and always require full-body support should use one. There can be many reasons:
There are many things you should consider as per your situation and take advice from your medical advisor or one of our experts via chat, , or call, whichever is easier.
You don't need a doctor's note to buy or use a wheelchair. However, if you want your insurance to help pay for it, you'll need a prescription from a doctor. Once a doctor confirms your need for a wheelchair, you can get insurance coverage for it with their prescription.
The typical lifespan of a wheelchair ranges from 2 to 3 years, extending up to 5 years for manual models. The more it's used, the quicker it may wear out due to daily usage.
Your mobility needs might change during this time, prompting an upgrade before the wheelchair wears out. When buying one, think about how often you'll use it ' occasional or daily? This choice ensures you select the ideal wheelchair and maximize its longevity.
When you are looking to choose a new electric wheelchair the amount of choice and information available can often be daunting. Even as a starting point some may refer to an electric wheelchair as a powered wheelchair (often shortened to powerchair) or even as a motorised wheelchair.
Then there can be a lot of weird jargon and acronyms to try to understand and digest.
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Finding a knowledgeable, experienced and trustworthy supplier is an often surprisingly difficult task too.
To try and help with choosing the best electric wheelchair for you, there are 10 essential questions you need to ask yourself before approaching a supplier to purchase one from:
Often more compact and basic, these chairs are designed for being used in the house, office or school. They aren't tested for outdoor use and smaller battery sizes mean that any outdoor use would be very limited. Most models will offer some form of removable parts so that the chair can be transported in the boot of a car for trips to the shops.
Like an indoor only chair these chairs will often be more compact to allow for more ease of use in tighter environments, however they will have been tested for outdoor use and have features that will enhance the experience when out and about. This would typically be suspension to make the ride more comfortable and sometimes larger batteries to extend the range that can be driven between charges.
This type of chair will be designed for more predominantly outdoor use and will often have a wider chassis width to offer more stability and comfort, whilst still remaining reasonably compact for when it's being used indoors. Enhanced suspension, larger batteries and faster speeds are usually available for these models.
Off-road chairs will typically take most of the features of an outdoor / indoor chair and enhance them further to make it more suitable to use over rougher terrains. Extra suspension points, upgraded power modules and increased wheel sizes allow for a better experience but do often mean the chassis will be wider and longer than other types of chairs.
The drive wheels are directly under the user in the centre of the chassis, with two castors wheels in front and (conventionally) a further two behind. Often found to be the most intuitive to drive and allows for the tightest turning circle. The front and rear castors also provide further stability. In some instances when using on uneven terrain or steep ramps the front or rear castors can cause the drive wheel to lift off the ground and lose traction.
The drive wheels are at the rear of the chassis with two castors at the front. This offers a very stable base and straight line driving, particularly at higher speeds. In some indoor environments this may not be the best option as it has the largest turning circle when fitted with swing away leg rests.
The drive wheels are at the front of the chassis with two castors at the rear. Having larger wheels at the front can offer much smoother obstacle climbing and also copes better if there is more weight distributed towards the front of the chair. With the majority of the chair 'behind' the user it can take a longer time for finding the drive as intuitive as the other options. Modern (gyro) technology has meant you can now have a FWD chair that feels very stable to drive.
There are a variety of chassis widths available for power chairs and a number of factors to be considered. Firstly, where the chair will be used predominantly and whether there are any width restricting factors, i.e., width of doorways. Things like battery size, seat width and drive wheel size can also have a deciding factor on how compact or how large a chassis might be.
The length of a powerchair can vary to some degree. Most chassis will have a similar overall length due to how stable they need to be. The one thing that can change the overall length is the style and angle of leg rests required.
Designed to limit shock and withstand external forces. Gives benefits when climbing or descending large kerbs. Offers a stiffer ride experience. Benefits are lost if gas leaks from the cylinder and can be expensive to replace. Can be noisy with many moving parts.
Absorbs both shock from larger obstacles and vibration from everyday uneven terrain. Offers a much quieter and smoother ride. Can be more limited for descending large kerbs on MWD chairs.
Conventional chairs can weigh anywhere from 80 to 200kg. The weight of the chair should be considered if it will be hoisted into a vehicle or needs to be used in domestic lifts.
The overall chair weight is ultimately governed by the selection of additional options to the standard offering. The heaviest component tends to be the batteries (depending on capacity selected). Powered seating options such as seat lift/seat tilt quickly add weight and complex/rehab seating can be surprisingly heavy.
In the UK chairs are generally available in 3 'top' speeds: 4, 6 or 8mph. You can however start with a 6mph chair and edit the program to govern its top speed. This can be useful for children where you may want to govern speed initially but allow faster speeds as they progress.
6mph (and above) chairs sold in the UK must have compliant lighting and a rear view mirror to be considered legal for use on the roads.
Battery capacity (in ah) is generally linked to its physical size. This is then governed by the ability of the chosen chair to accommodate the physical dimensions of the battery. Narrow chairs tend to have capacity ranging from 35ah to 60ah. Conventional width chairs usually have 50ah up to 100ah capacity.
Range is directly liked to battery capacity. It is very difficult to put an exact figure on range as everyone uses their chair differently. For example, driving at full speed in a straight line is much more efficient than driving indoors with lots of turning on the spot etc.
You can expect range from 8 miles to 30 miles but there are many variables. It is always worth considering getting the biggest capacity battery that your chair can accommodate.
Basic controls are usually found on lower specification chairs. They may be 'drive' only or have the option to operate a couple of actuators such as a back recline or seat tilt. These are usually found on 4mph chairs and below.
Advanced controls are usually found on higher specification or rehab electric wheelchairs. They are often modular systems which means components can be added or removed as conditional needs of the user change. They are capable of operating many actuators and can control Bluetooth and infra-red based devices as well as some environmental controls.
An attendant control is a device operated not by the user of the chair but by a third party. Historically these controls have been a standard or compact version of a joystick mounted usually at the rear of the chair. They are a compromise though and are not always intuitive to use.
There are now a couple of extremely intuitive controls available, and these offer excellent functionality and full control of the chair. They require minimum training time and are a great alternative to standard attendant controls for multiple carer environments.
Special controls is a wide ranging term. Any device that isn't a standard joystick tends to fit under the umbrella. It could be a low force/low throw joystick for a user with a condition such as Motor Neurone Disease or perhaps a head control system for a user that has suffered a spinal cord injury. With vast amounts of options, it is possible to be very open minded and it is almost always possible to create a solution for a user to operate their chair if cognitive abilities allow.
A powered backrest recline allows the angle of the backrest to be adjusted via the chairs joystick or control system. Usually available in varying amounts of potential recline. Used primarily to manage comfort it can help with posture control also. Available in conventional and bio-mechanical/anti-shear formats. Bio-mechanical is best considered when used regularly and or with items like thoracic supports as it keeps such items in an anatomically correct position when reclining.
Perhaps the most popular of powered options is seat tilt. Available in a basic fixed pivot tilt or the much superior centre of gravity shift motion. Available in varying amounts of posterior tilt, it is widely acknowledged that 45' is the minimum amount of tilt required for effective pressure care. If just being used for functional purposes, then 30' is often seen. Some chairs offer an option for anterior tilt which can allow easier standing transfers or perhaps reaching into a cupboard etc.
Powered seat lifters are a widely used option. Usually offering up to 30cm of vertical lift it offers great social interaction benefits but also great functional possibilities especially when living an independent life. It could be something as simple as being able to reach an item on a supermarket shelf or being able to raise your seat so you can see above the crowd at a concert. Chairs can usually still drive with the seat elevated albeit at a reduced speed for safety reasons.
Powered leg rests (swing away or centre mount) are a great option for allowing a user to adjust their position for perhaps comfort reasons or for managing oedemas legs. Swing away leg rests allow independent control of each leg however chairs are more compact when used with a centre mount leg rest setup.
If you wish to travel in a vehicle whilst seated in your chair you must ensure that your chair meets the crash test requirements of ISO -19. You should also ensure that a suitable head restraint is fitted to the chair when in transit or that provision for head restraint is made as part of the vehicle structure.
Generally, chairs are secured using 4 point tie down brackets and straps that secure the chair to the vehicle floor. For greater convenience you could use a vehicle docking system instead that removes the need for traditional straps. These are usually a 2 part system with one part fitted in the vehicle and the other on the chair. Various docking systems are available, and you should ensure that your chosen wheelchair is compatible with your choice of docking system.
A popular option for independent living is drive from vehicles. With the use of a docking system a user is able to drive their vehicle from a power chair. It is always advisable to select your wheelchair before choosing a vehicle though as not all chairs work well in all vehicles. You should ensure that your chosen chair is crash tested and that your choice of docking system is compatible with both vehicle and chair. Another important consideration here is the seat to floor height of your chair, you need it to be low enough to allow easy access into the vehicle and to allow a good line of sight underneath the roofline of the vehicle. Too tall and your vision will be adversely affected.
For those chair users that are able to transfer from chair to vehicle there are options such as hoists. These allow you to transport your chair in the boot of your vehicle. The hoist would usually be mounted on the rear wheel arch area of your car. Brackets would be fitted onto your chair, and you would pick the chair up with the hoist and swing it into the vehicle. Hoists come with a maximum weight capacity, so it is critical that your chair comes within the design limit of your hoist.
I hope that these questions have given you a starting point towards understanding more about electric wheelchairs and some of the things to consider before purchasing. Of course, there are many individual needs and factors that may also need to be thought about and discussed, so please feel free to get in touch here and one of our Product Specialists will contact you to answer any of your questions.
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