What do you need to know to choose the right wheelchairs?

Many of us will at some time in our lives have to use a wheelchair of some sort. Whilst it may just be for a short while after an accident or an operation it will be alright to use a hospital supplied one or one borrowed from some organisation like the British Red Cross, if it is going to be for longer or even a permanent need then there are some details you need to consider.

If you are going to use a manual wheelchair then there are two main types to choose from, if you want to be independent and can push yourself then you will need one of the types with the large wheels at the back known as ‘self propel’ wheel chairs for obvious reasons, mind you it is still possible for you to be pushed as well in one of these.

Those who for some reason would not be able to push themselves in a wheelchair will select the type known as ‘attendant controlled’ wheelchairs because normally some one will be pushing them either a carer, a friend or a loved one, though if you are to heavy and they have to push you for too long they might love you quite as much!

It is possible now with both types to add on a dedicated motor that will make the movement of the chair much easier for all concerned, these are battery operated and can be a great help and for those who are in wheelchairs with someone pushing the control unit would be fitted onto the back of the chair so that the person pushing remains in control and does not get left behind! Whereas   the self propel wheelchairs have a hand control unit fitted at the front to allow the user to drive him or herself where they want to go.

Something else to consider when selecting a wheelchair is if it will fold down and come apart for easy transportation and if it does will it fit into the car you will be using reasonably easily, after all if you are going away you need to be able to get luggage as well as your wheelchair into the car! It is possible to purchase a travel wheel chair just for this purpose, normally smaller  and lighter they are probably not as robust as your normal wheelchair but for a few days or even a couple of weeks away they can be ideal.

We will try to give you more  helpful information about wheelchairs over the coming weeks but a good selection of wheelchairs and accessories can be found in our sister web site mobilityproducts4u.org if you need any information just contact them.