Wheelchairs and Mobile Chairs

Some of the factors to consider when buying a wheelchair involve the following.

1. Will you self-propel or have an attendant?
2. How frequently will you use the chair?
3. Will you use the chair both indoors and outdoors?
4. Will you need to transport the chair in a folded-up position?
5. What overall weight limitations do you have for lifting the wheelchair for transport or storage?

The primary features to consider when buying a wheelchair include the following.

1. Rear Wheels:
   • Size
   • Rims and spokes, or MAG type
   • Tires – pneumatic or solid rubber
   • Quick release or not
   • Anti-tip wheels at back or not
2. Front wheels:
   • Size
   • Swivel
3. Footrests:
   • Fixed or removable
   • Elevating or not
   • Height adjustable or not
   • Straps:
     • Calf
     • Heel
4. Armrests:
   • Full or half length
   • Removable or turn up 90 degrees
   • Tip and remove, or tip and pivot out of the way
   • Height adjustable or not
5. Brakes:
   • Wheel brake:
     • Ease of access
     • Push forward or pull back
   • Attendant brake
   • Ease of adjusting brakes

To assess the correct size, you need to consider the following.

1. User weight:
   • 250 lbs or less
   • More than 250 lbs – heavy duty
2. Seat size
   • Width – Not to loose of tight
   • Depth (base of spine to back of knees):
     • Too short – too much weight put on your bottom
     • Too long – irritation on back of knees
3. Backrest height
4. Armrest height

Wheelchair accessories to consider include the following:

1. Wheelchair cushions – based on susceptibility to sores of user:
   • Low Risk – foam
   • Medium Risk – memory foam and gel
   • High Risk – gel or air-based
2. Walking stick or crutch holders
3. Weather protection:
   • Simple mac, gore-tex, or fleece-lined
   • Leg protection or not
4. Storage options for personal items:
   • Size – small personal items only, or bigger items
   • Position on chair -under chair, on armrest, or in back