Choosing a Wheelchair

Sourcing a wheelchair for the first time can be a daunting prospect with such a vast array of makes and models of wheelchairs on offer. We have put together the following guide to help you make an informed decision as to the type of wheelchair you may require.
Before choosing a wheelchair you must assess your various needs. By asking yourself a few questions you can gain a clearer view of the wheelchair that would suit you. Below are a few questions that might be of use:

Do you require your wheelchair for indoor and outdoor uses?

Some wheelchairs are better suited for outdoor use due to having puncture resistant tyres and large wheels at the back allowing them to move easily across a wider range of terrains. If a wheelchair is going to be used indoors check to make sure it will fit through all the required doors.

Will you always have someone to push you?

If you won’t always have someone there, you should look towards a self-propelling wheelchair to help move independently. Even if you are not looking to propel yourself a self-propelled wheelchair allows you to change the direction you are facing in social situations.

Will you need to transport the wheelchair in the car?

Look for a wheelchair that folds down to fit in the car, the wheelchair’s backrest should fold as well as the seat sling. The weight of the wheelchair should also be considered for ease of lifting in and out of the car, a lightweight wheelchair should weigh under 15kgs. Once folded down a wheelchair is likely to fit in the boot of most cars, however for small cars it may be worth selecting a wheelchair with quick release wheels.

Where can the wheelchair be stored?

If storage space is an issue, look for a wheelchair that folds down to take up as little space as possible when not in use.

How often will you be using the wheelchair in everyday life?

Some wheelchairs are designed to be used permanently, and likewise some are to be used for a few hours a day. Be sure to select the right type to give you the maximum comfort for the right price. Standard folding wheelchairs are normally recommended for up to 4hrs use a day, if the wheelchair will be used for most of the day a bespoke wheelchair should be sourced.

Do you require either or both your legs to be elevated?

Some wheelchairs have the capacity to elevate your legs for maximum comfort and support. If this is required make sure the leg extensions are adjustable to fit your legs as required.

Do you need to be able to transfer to and from your wheelchair from the side?

Some wheelchairs have removable or swing away armrests to allow side transfer, however many wheelchairs have rigid armrests and therefore do not allow side transfer.

Do you have a medical condition that requires a specialist wheelchair?

Seek advice from an Occupational Therapist as to the specifics of the wheelchair that your disability requires.

Is the weight of the wheelchair important?

Everyday lightweight aluminium wheelchairs start at about 13kgs (including footrests) with steel wheelchairs sometimes weighing over 20kgs. The lighter the wheelchair the easier it is to manoeuvre and transport.

What weight is the user?

Standard wheelchairs normally have a weight limit of around 18stone. Above this weight a specialist bariatric wheelchair will be required. Wheelchairs also come in a variety of seat widths, with 18inch being the most common. If a user is particularly slight a narrower wheelchair will offer more support and also allow for easier manoeuvrability, especially when indoors.

Do I need a self-propelling or transit wheelchair?

Self-propel wheelchairs have the large wheels on the back allowing the user to propel themselves for short distances. If the user will not be propelling themselves a self propelled wheelchair can often still be the right choice. If the wheelchair will be used outside and on uneven terrain the large wheels make pushing the wheelchair much easier and more comfortable. When in the wheelchair the large wheels also allow the user to change the direction they are facing. If a wheelchair user will not be propelling themselves, is not capable of changing the direction they face and will only be using the chair on smooth flat surfaces then a transit wheelchair may be more suitable due to reduced weight and cost of purchase.