How to Select the Right Wheel Chair?

Overview of Wheel Chairs in Detail

Wheelchairs have come a long way. An injured or a differently-abled person does not need to struggle as much as he had to back in the day when wheelchairs were at their elementary best and lacked most functionality that their modern counterparts are equipped with.

Free Tips to Select the Best Wheel Chair

If you are on a wheelchair hunt, read on to know key things you need to be on the lookout for:-

1. Type of Wheel Chairs

There is no dearth of the types of wheelchairs that you can choose from today.

• Manual Wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs are typically either self-driven or caregiver propelled.

• Ergonomic Wheelchairs

Ergonomic wheelchairs are designed to keep the comfort of the user in mind. The use of these chairs helps reduce the stress exerted on the lower backs of the occupants from sitting in the seat for prolonged durations of time.

• Recliner Wheelchairs

Reclining wheelchairs allow the occupant to recline at comfortable angles in a safe manner. They may also allow the occupant to raise his legs to attain a more comfortable position.

2. Wheelchair Seat Width

It is very important that you take into account the width of the wheelchair you are about to purchase, with 16 inches, 18 inches, and 20 inches being the popular sizes.

3. Wheelchair Seat Depth

You must measure the expanse of your wheelchair seat from the inside of the seat to outwards, where your shins are going to rest. To find out what the ideal depth should be, measure a wheelchair you or the intended occupant used to be comfortable in.

4. Seat to Floor Height

The seat to floor height of the wheelchair should neither be too high nor too low. In case the wheel chair is to be propelled using the feet, it would be best that you go for one that has a lower seat to floor height than the presumed ideal height.

5. Back Height

You must take into consideration the back height of the wheelchair. You can measure by beginning at the top of the backrest and trace down the length to the seat pad of the wheelchair. The back height should be comfortable enough for the intended user to sit in without straining himself in the process.

6. Leg Rests & Armrests

Swingway leg rests can be set aside when the user wishes to alight or occupy the wheelchair. Elevating leg rests can be raised to provide more comfort to the user and reduce inflammation.

Armrests too should be adjustable in nature to give more room to the user to stretch out.

7. Backrests

It is best that you look for a wheelchair with adjustable backrests to suit the convenience of the user better, allowing him to stretch or sit straight as need be.

Final Words About the Use of Wheel Chairs

In addition to the factors mentioned above, you must ensure that you are buying a wheelchair that is of good quality and manufactured by reputed makers so as to maximize the comfort for yourself or a loved one. Try brands such as Karma, Vissco, SHC and Medfurnish for their best-in-line wheelchairs.