How to Measure a Wheelchair

When it comes to wheelchairs, there is nothing more important than making sure the chair is a perfect fit for its owner. If any one element of the chair is too long, too short, too wide or too skinny, it can become incredibly uncomfortable, especially over a long period of time. Read the following article to learn how to measure a wheelchair and ensure it will be a good fit for the owner.

1. Measure the width of the person who will use the wheelchair. Take the measurement with the person in the seated position, on a fairly firm surface. This will determine the width of the seat.

      ·         Add approximately 2.5 to 5 cm for slight movement and comfort when sitting. Allow for the thickness of bulky clothing, which could be worn in the winter.

2. Measure the widest part of the subject's chest. This will usually be from directly under one armpit to the other. This will influence the width of the seat back.

3. Measure from the back of the heel to the back of the knee. This will determine the length of the leg rest extension and influence the seat height.

      ·         Add a minimum of 2 inches (5 cm) to this measurement to determine seat height. Unless the wheelchair is going to be foot propelled, the footrest needs that much room for clearance.

      ·         Take the next measurements while the person is sitting down. The arms should be at a 90 degree angle, and the shoulders should be relaxed and neutral.

4. Measure from the back of the hips to the back of the subject's knee. Add approximately 2.5 to 5 cm to determine the ideal seat depth. For an adult, there should be that much space from the edge of the seat to the back of the knee.

5. Measure from the tip of the elbow to the top of the hips. Again, the person should be in a sitting position with both arms at a 90 degree angle. This will determine the height of the armrest in relation to the seat.

6. Measure from the hips to the shoulders. This will determine the height of the seat back.

7. Measure from the hips to the top of the head. This will determine the necessary height of the headrest.

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How to choose a wheelchair

It is so much easier for the disabled or ill to get around independently than it used to be, and there are various types of wheelchairs to choose from. Here are a few of the features, to help choose which one is best.

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1. Motorized Scooters

- This wheelchair does not need much physical strength, which means it is better for the elderly

- It is easy to negotiate curbs and road crossings

- Unfortunately they won’t fit in your car, and a spare battery should be carried around just in case it dies

2. Power Wheelchairs

- Perfect for people who have very limited mobility, as it is powered by a joystick

- Easy to negotiate curbs and road crossings

- It won’t be able to fit in most cars; however you can fit them on modified vehicles

3. Self-propelling Wheelchairs

- Buy this chair if you want easy access to shops and very easy steering

- Notice that you can fit one inside your care, which means total mobility

- You can use this wheelchair alone, without any help

- Realise that it is very hard work for your arms

- Terrain is a major concern, so take your environment into account

4. Push-wheelchairs

- These are for people with extremely limited movement or no movement at all

- Most of these fold down to fit into a normal car

- You cannot use these on your own, so you will need someone to push you around at all times

- Remember that these are not very maneuverable

Choosing a wheelchair is never simple; it is much more than looks. So take a look at the features, disadvantages and advantages and make the right choice.