7 Simple Steps For Choosing The Right Wheelchair

The whole process of selecting the right wheelchair for the right person can be daunting, especially as everyone has their own needs in nursing homes and aged care providers. There are a wide variety of factors to consider, from the type of wheelchair to the size and weight of the user.

Let’s have a look at the steps to choosing the right wheelchair for your resident’s needs.

1. Defining Your Needs

When considering which wheelchair is right wheelchair, first define the needs by answering the following questions:

• What are the primary needs for using a wheelchair (e.g., mobility, independence, transfers, accessing a certain environment)?
• Do they need a wheelchair for occasional use or for extended periods of time?
• Do they need a wheelchair for indoor use only, or do you need one that can be used outdoors as well?
• Do they need a wheelchair that is lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, or one that is more heavy-duty and stable?
• Do they need a wheelchair with special features or accessories (e.g., handrails, a reclining back, a cushion)?
• Who will be using the wheelchair, will someone be pushing it?

2. Assessing Wheelchair Types

There are many different types of wheelchairs available to meet the needs of users with different disabilities. Some wheelchairs are designed for indoor use, while others are made for outdoor use. Some wheelchairs are manual, while others are powered. And there are even wheelchairs designed specifically for sports and other recreational activities.

Choosing the right wheelchair can be a daunting task. But with a little research and guidance, you can find the perfect wheelchair for your needs. In this article, we’ll give you an overview of the different types of wheelchairs available, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for each individual resident.

See below some of the types:

3. Factors to Consider

There are many factors to consider when choosing the right wheelchair. Depending on the individual’s needs, there are a variety of features to look for in a wheelchair. Here are just a few factors to keep in mind when choosing a wheelchair:

• The individual’s weight and height
• The wheelchair’s weight limit
• The type of terrain the wheelchair will be used on
• The type of activities the individual will be doing in the wheelchair
• The individual’s level of dexterity
• The length of time a resident will spend in the wheelchair

These are just a few of the factors to consider when choosing a wheelchair. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that the wheelchair that’s chosen is the best option for the individual’s needs.

4. The Right Size

When choosing a wheelchair, one of the most important aspects to consider is the size of the wheelchair. This is because the size of the wheelchair will impact the comfort of the user, the maneuverability of the wheelchair, and the overall safety of the user.

There are a few different ways that you can determine the right size wheelchair for your resident. The first way is to take measurements of the person who will be using the wheelchair. You will need to measure the width of their hips, the width of their shoulders, and the length of their legs. You can then use these measurements to find a wheelchair that will accommodate the user.

See chart below to match wheelchair with resident: –

Another way to determine the right size wheelchair is to try out different types and sizes of wheelchairs. This will allow you to see which size and style of wheelchair works best for the individual.

5. The Right Weight Rating

When determining the right weight rating for your wheelchair, you will need to take into account the weight of the user, the weight of the wheelchair, and the weight of any additional accessories. The weight rating of the wheelchair is important because it will impact the safety and stability of the wheelchair. A wheelchair that is not rated for the proper weight could collapse and cause injury to the user.

To determine the proper weight rating for your wheelchair, start by adding the weight of the user and the weight of the wheelchair. Then, add any additional accessories, such as a footrest or armrest, that will be used with the wheelchair. The total weight of all these items should not exceed the weight rating of the wheelchair. If it does, you will need to choose a different wheelchair or remove some of the accessories.

6. The Right Features

When it comes to finding the right wheelchair for our patients, there are a few key features we always keep in mind. First and foremost, we want to make sure the wheelchair is comfortable and fits the patient well. We also want to make sure that the wheelchair is durable and easy to manoeuvre. Finally, we want to make sure that the wheelchair meets all of the patient’s needs and is easy to use.

By taking all of these factors into consideration, Interquip Healthcare can help our patients find the perfect wheelchair for their needs.

7. The Right Price

When considering purchasing a wheelchair, there are many things that must be taken into account to ensure you are getting the best possible value for your money. The type of wheelchair, the features it offers, the quality of the materials, and the brand all play a role in determining the final price.

Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that the initial purchase price is not the only cost associated with owning a wheelchair. Maintenance, repairs, and replacement parts can also add up over time. For this reason, it is important to choose a wheelchair that is both durable and easy to maintain.

By taking all these factors into consideration, you can be sure to find a wheelchair that fits both your needs and your budget.

 

Need to place a bulk order on wheelchairs for your healthcare or aged care center? Call us at 1800 677 344 to speak to our friendly sales te

 

Originally written for Interquip Health