Our Ultimate Guide to Buying a Wheelchair

Introduction

Wheelchairs are more than just mobility aids, they are essential devices that enhance the quality of life for individuals with mobility impairments. Whether temporary or long-term, choosing the right wheelchair for your needs is a decision that requires careful consideration. With the right wheelchair, everyday tasks become more accessible, and independence is greatly improved. In this guide, we explore some of the types of wheelchairs available and outline key factors you should consider before making your purchase.

Is a Wheelchair Suitable for Your Needs?

Wheelchairs provide independence for individuals facing mobility challenges due to disabilities or health conditions. They offer a solution for both temporary and more permanent needs. Choosing a wheelchair should be based on your situation, the level of mobility required, and the potential benefits to your daily life. By evaluating your needs and lifestyle, you can make an informed decision that enhances your mobility and overall well-being.

Types of Wheelchairs

Wheelchairs come in various styles and are classified into two main categories:

1. Self-Propelled Wheelchairs: These are designed for users who can manoeuvre themselves using the wheels.
2. Attendant-Propelled (Transit) Wheelchairs: These are operated by a caregiver or assistant and are typically more compact and lighter.

Both types have numerous options to suit user needs and preferences, they are usually available in manual or electric.

Some Things to Consider Before Investing in a Wheelchair

1. Consult a Professional
   • Always seek advice from a knowledgeable supplier, like Medop CC, and your medical professional to ensure that you receive the correct recommendations for your needs.
2. Indoor vs. Outdoor Use
   • Indoor Use: If your primary mobility is within confined spaces, opt for a wheelchair with exceptional manoeuvrability.
   • Outdoor Use: For outdoor activities, look for models with larger wheels and sturdy frames to handle uneven terrain with ease.
3. Body Size and Weight
   • Make sure the wheelchair is suited to your body size (Seat Width) and weight to ensure both safety and comfort.
4. Backrests and Seat Cushions
   • A supportive backrest is essential for comfort, and adjustable options may offer more flexibility. Don’t forget to invest in quality seat cushions (gel or memory foam) to prevent pressure wounds and enhance seating comfort.
5. Mobility Features
   • Whether you choose a manual wheelchair, a power wheelchair, or a transport chair, make sure it aligns with your mobility preferences and requirements.
6. Lightweight and Foldable Options
   • If transport and storage are important to you, lightweight and foldable wheelchairs are great options for easy handling and compact storage.
7. Budget Considerations
   • Wheelchairs range in price, so it’s important to determine your budget upfront. Research financing options or check with your medical aid for coverage to ensure you find an affordable, high-quality solution.

Choosing the Right Wheelchair Size

Selecting the correct size is crucial for long-term comfort and functionality. Here’s what you should consider:

• Weight Capacity: Always check the maximum weight a wheelchair can support to ensure it accommodates your body weight safely.
• Seat Dimensions: Wheelchairs are sized according to Seat Width. For comfort, there should be a small gap between the edges of the seat and your hips—typically 2-4 cm is recommended.
• Leg Positioning: Ensure that when seated, your hips and knees are at a 90-degree angle. Footplates should also be adjusted for height, particularly for outdoor use on uneven surfaces.

Our Top 5 Recommended Wheelchairs

The Glide Lite

The Lightweight Glide Lite has awed the market with the ability to adjust for a comfortable seat depth for a standard user all the way up to a 50cm seat depth for the unusually tall user. Packaged in a lightweight, user friendly aluminium folding frame the Glide Lite allows for arm rest height adjustment to compliment the taller user, angle adjustable footplates on a reinforced triple-cross-bar and a TAB for positioning. There is not much you can't achieve in seating, functionality and comfort with the Glide Lite.

Product Info & Spec Sheets

The Glide Swift

The Glide SWIFT has proven to be the most popular wheelchair model for post CVA rehabilitation discharge. With the reinforced double crossbars, height adjustable arms, TAB, Quick Release lightweight rims all mounted on a lightweight frame for transport, the wheelchair is manageable for elderly couples to handle. The robust and reinforced frame has also made this wheelchair a favourite with users looking for a durable primary or back-up wheelchair on a reasonable budget. Therapists will be enamoured with the user-friendliness of the Glide SWIFT in confidently allowing the therapist to prescribe their patients with a clinically appropriate wheelchair for discharge.

Product Info & Spec Sheets

Invacare Action 3

The Action is one of the best examples of cross-compatibility in the Invacare range. Offering high levels of efficiency for dealers, platform sharing across the Action family and other Invacare models makes re-use and refurbishment an easy and attractive feature for users. An appealing ‘next generation ’ design together with improved functionalities in terms of stability and comfort means that the Action marks the rebirth of our flagship product in style.

Product Info & Spec Sheets

Invacare Action 5

The Invacare Action5 has been designed for the more active user looking for an affordable chair with good drive performance and the ability to fold easily for handling, storage, and transportation purposes. With its two patents and lightweight construction, the new Action5 gives the user a chair they can rely on. Key features include a unique folding mechanism, the stability of a rigid chair, quick step-less adjustability, and it is highly configurable.

Product Info & Spec Sheets

Jade Bariatric

The Jade Bariatric wheelchair is designed to provide maximum comfort and support for users requiring a durable, heavy-duty solution. Available in 22", 24", and 26" sizes, this wheelchair features a reinforced powder-coated mild steel frame, ensuring strength and longevity. The removable footrest and black reinforced nylon upholstery offer both convenience and durability. With a load capacity ranging from 145kg to 185kg, the Jade Bariatric accommodates a wide range of users. For added comfort, an optional elevating leg rest is available, making this wheelchair an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable, adaptable, and robust mobility aid.

Product Info & Spec Sheets

Consider a Power Wheelchair

For individuals looking for enhanced ease of use, a power wheelchair is a fantastic option. Operated via hand controls, these electric wheelchairs are designed to function in the same spaces as manual ones but provide additional comfort and control. Power wheelchairs excel at navigating slopes, ramps, and various terrains without causing fatigue. They are particularly suited for extended use due to their comfortable seating and superior manoeuvrability.

At Medop CC, we offer a selection of top-tier electric wheelchairs that are versatile and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Conclusion

Choosing the right wheelchair is about more than just comfort; it’s about improving your quality of life. Whether you need a manual or power wheelchair, it's important to consult with healthcare professionals and a trusted supplier like Medop CC to ensure you select the best fit for your needs. Be sure to evaluate the features that matter most to you, and don’t compromise on quality.