Things To Consider Before Buying Manual Wheelchairs

Wheelchairs are a crucial solution for persons with disabilities. They provide them with a comfortable and smooth ride, which is impossible to achieve when walking. As the disabled community is fast growing, so is the production and sale of wheelchairs. However, not all wheelchair models are of good quality. It would really help if you were careful when buying something at such an important price. Choosing a wheelchair or scooter is not an easy task. There are so many things you must consider before making a decision.

This Blog Post Outlines The Things To Consider Before Buying Manual Wheelchairs.

Wheelchair Weight

One of the very most important factors to consider before buying a wheelchair is its weight capacity. This is because it will determine how much weight it can carry before it becomes too heavy for you to push. If you want to use your wheelchair as long as possible, you should buy one with a higher weight capacity than your current weight. The same goes if you are planning on losing some pounds because then it would be better if you got a lighter wheelchair now so that when your weight decreases in the future, the chair will still be able to support your weight without becoming too heavy for you to lift and move around with ease.

The Adjustability of the Seating System

The seating system of your wheelchair is essential because it determines how comfortable you will be while sitting in it. The right wheelchair seat can make all the difference in how long you can comfortably sit in your wheelchair before getting up and moving around. You want to find a seat with as many adjustments as possible to find one that fits perfectly for you. Those with limited mobility will want seats with multiple height adjustments so that they can adjust their chairs as needed without having to ask for help from others or risk falling out of their chairs when getting up from them.

Consider Foldability

While many people prefer the convenience of having a foldable wheelchair, others may not have the space in their home or vehicle to accommodate one. However, if you have limited storage space or need something easily transported from place to place, consider looking into folding wheelchairs. Folding wheelchairs are typically smaller than standard models, with smaller wheels and a foldable frame that allows them to be folded in half for easy transport. They usually come equipped with removable seat backs that allow them to fit into trunks or back seats more quickly than other types of chairs.

Safety Features

Manual wheelchairs have fewer safety features than their motorised counterparts. However, there are still some vital things that you should look for when purchasing one of these chairs. One of the most essential features of any manual wheelchair is head support. The best way to get this kind of support is with an adjustable backrest that can be raised or lowered depending on how tall your child is or how old they are getting. This will ensure they have proper head and back support while sitting in their chair. Another safety feature of manual wheelchairs is brakes. These brakes are used to stop the chair from moving forward or backward once someone has been seated in it or getting out of it from the front or back sides, respectively, depending on what kind of brakes.

Pick the Right Wheelchair Accessories

If you need accessories for your wheelchair, such as footplates, headrests, and armrests, make sure they’re compatible with your wheelchair before you buy them. Some accessories attach directly to the chair, while others are separate pieces that attach to the sides of the chair with straps or brackets. You may need to buy extra parts if they don’t come with your manual wheelchair or break down over time due to wear and tear or misuse. It’s best to stick with one brand when choosing accessories for your wheelchair so that everything will work together smoothly when it comes time to attach them properly.

The Size of the Wheels

The wheel size is an essential factor when buying a manual wheelchair. The wheel size will determine how easy it is to maneuver and whether you can fit through narrow spaces. If you are planning on using your wheelchair outdoors, then you should get a wheel with a diameter of 12 inches or less. Wheelchairs with larger wheels are better suited for indoor use because they are more challenging to push outside.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this has helped you to narrow down your choices and provided some insight into a manual wheelchair’s proper fit. If you are in a kind of situation where you are using mobility equipment, having the right manual wheelchair equipment is so important. Poor-quality wheels or frames could make activities of daily living nearly impossible, which is why it’s essential to research and find the right manual wheelchair.