How to choose a Wheelchair that is best suited to your needs

With much advancement in medical technology, equipment and products, getting around when you’re disabled or ill is so much easier than it used to be.

There are a range of different wheelchairs available, all with their own specific features based on your needs. Are you looking for an affordable wheelchair? Take a look at the various wheelchairs available on Supply Doctor (www.supplydoctor.co.za) as well as many other medical supplies, equipment, consumables, disposables, first aid products and so much more.

Here’s how to choose a wheelchair that is best suited to your needs…

Motorized Scooters

        -          This wheelchair is motorized so that means it does not need much physical strength to move it around, this means it is a lot better for the elderly.

        -          It is easier for the person on the scooter to negotiate curbs as well as road crossings.

        -          A motorized scooter is large so it is unable to fit in a regular vehicle, it is also best to keep a spare battery on hand at all times.

Power Wheelchairs

        -          Powered by a joystick, this wheelchair is perfect for anyone who has limited mobility.

        -          Easy navigation on road crossings and curbs.

        -          It is unable to fit in a regular car; however it is possible to fit a power wheelchair in a modified vehicle.

Self-Propelled Wheelchairs

        -          This chair is perfect for someone who needs easy access to shops with simple steering.

        -          A self-propelled wheelchair is able to fit inside your vehicle for total mobility.

        -          You can use this wheelchair without help from anyone else.

        -          Because it is self-propelled it can be hard work for your arms.

        -          Terrain can sometimes be a concern, so always take your environment into account.

Push-wheelchairs

        -          These wheelchairs are suited for people with limited movement or no movement at all.

        -          Majority of these fold and fit easily into a regular vehicle.

        -          It is not possible to use this wheelchair on your own; you will need someone to push you around at all times.

        -          Always remember that this type of wheelchair is not easily manoeuvrable.

When you choose a wheelchair you need to think clearly about your needs and what features are best suited to your needs. Choosing a wheelchair is never simple, so to make the right choice always go through all the features, disadvantages as well as the advantages.