An Essential Wheelchair Guide: Types, Selection, Maintenance, and Accessories

According to multiple sources, there are over 3.5 million wheelchair users in the United States and roughly a third of them are people over 65. Whether your need for mobility assistance is temporary or long-term, finding the right wheelchair is critical. There are many factors to consider when making a buying decision. Whether you’re a caregiver, helping a loved one, or using a wheelchair yourself, this article will help you choose the right model, learn essential maintenance, and find helpful accessories. 

How to Know if You Need a Wheelchair

Rather than restricting you, opting for a wheelchair can be very freeing. It offers mobility and relief from pain if using a walker or cane to get around becomes too uncomfortable. If you feel you would benefit from a wheelchair, you should consult your doctor. Doctors usually prescribe wheelchairs based on their assessment of your condition.If your doctor approves, health insurance typically covers wheelchair purchases or rentals (for temporary needs). In some cases, chronic conditions such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, multiple sclerosis and other illnesses are reasons you may need wheelchair mobility.

Signs you may need mobility assistance

• Having frequent falls: Falling can be especially serious for seniors and those with certain chronic illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control reports that millions of people over the age of 65 fall each year and many of them end up in the emergency room as a result. 
• Becoming increasingly dependent on your walker: Walkers are very useful and if necessary, you may want to upgrade your walker before you consider a wheelchair. However, there may come a time when the walker doesn’t offer enough support and stability, especially for seniors.
• Experiencing pain or weakness when walking: If you find you are feeling weaker and walking is painful, it may be time to ask your doctor for a wheelchair assessment. If walking around the store or in the park causes pain, even with a cane or walker, it may be time for a wheelchair. You will welcome the relief this brings, and trips outside your home will be more enjoyable. 
• Having problems with coordination and balance: In addition to muscular conditions that can interfere with your ability to stand upright on your feet and remain balanced, there are neurological conditions that can affect you. Many disorders, including Alzheimer’s, can impede the ability to remain mobile without wheelchair assistance. In these cases, a wheelchair can benefit both the patient and the caregiver.

🦽 Types: Standard, Transport and Power Wheelchairs

The three basic categories of wheelchair are standard manual wheelchairs, transport lightweight wheelchairs and motorized power wheelchairs. The following are some tips on the type of wheelchair that might best serve your needs.

Manual Wheelchair Tips

Standard manual wheelchairs have large rear wheels and small front wheels.Another person can push this type of wheelchair, or the user can operate it by moving the large rear wheels from a seated position. Standard wheelchairs are often lightweight and many fold easily for transport in cars or vans.

• You need to be able to sit in a steady and balanced position to operate a manual wheelchair.
• To operate a manual wheelchair as the user, you also need to have sufficient upper body strength and mobility to move the large wheels and propel yourself.
• Even if you use a cane or walker to get around your house, you may want to consider a manual wheelchair for longer distances or when there are errands or appointments.
• If you find yourself increasingly dependent on a wheelchair for most of your mobility, it may be wise to have a manual wheelchair available all the time.
• Folding wheelchairs are a good option because they are easy to compact and take with you. 
• Outdoor manual wheelchairs with special tires for all terrains are ideal for users who want to enjoy more rugged environments.
  

Transport Lightweight Wheelchair Tips

Transport wheelchairs are lightweight wheelchairs that have smaller wheels and a narrower body and can only be operated by another person – the user can’t propel them. Hospitals, rehab centers, and nursing facilities typically use these wheelchairs, which are not designed for permanent wheelchair dependence. In these situations, hospitals use these wheelchairs to transport patients to different departments or activities, or for discharge.

• Transport lightweight wheelchairs are operated by a caregiver making them the right choice for specific uses, such as transporting patients within institutions or getting patients to and from appointments.
• These wheelchairs are small, light and highly maneuverable, making them ideal for navigating small spaces.
• If you only need wheelchair support for outings or appointments accompanied by a caregiver, a transport folding wheelchair is light and small and packs easily into most vehicles.

Power Wheelchair Tips

There are also motorized or power electric wheelchairs that are operated by the user with controls. Patients with long-term needs who are unable to operate a manual wheelchair typically use power wheelchairs. Some factors to consider when choosing a power wheelchair are as follows:

• If you need a wheelchair for mobility but lack sufficient upper body strength to propel a manual wheelchair, a power wheelchair is a good option.
• Power wheelchairs are larger than the manual type, so it’s important to make sure the wheelchair is maneuverable in the user’s living space. 
• Because motorized wheelchairs are larger and heavier than manual ones, a van is usually required to move them from one location to another.
• There are smaller, portable power wheelchairs but they have less seat padding and are not as comfortable for patients who sit in a wheelchair for long periods of time.
• Before you choose a motorized wheelchair be sure to find out how long the battery life is and how long it takes to charge the battery.

🛠️ Wheelchair Maintenance Basics

Maintaining a wheelchair is as important as maintaining an automobile because both are vital for mobility and freedom. For the best results, rely on the wheelchair manual or call a professional repair shop for more serious issues. The following are some key tips to ensure your wheelchair continues to perform properly:

• Check the Tires: You should regularly check your wheelchair tires for wear or damage such as punctures. Be sure tire pressure is maintained at the right level.

• Inspect the Brakes: Test the brakes often to ensure they are functioning properly.
• Check the Casters: Make sure the front casters are able to maneuver and pivot easily.
• Lubricate the Moving Parts: Check all axles, folding joints and other moving parts to ensure they function smoothly.
• Tighten Nuts and Bolts: Periodically check the nuts and bolts and tighten them if necessary.
• Check the Battery: If you have a power wheelchair, be sure to keep the battery charged and confirm that it’s adequately holding the charge.
• Clean the Wheelchair: Keep the wheelchair clean by wiping down all parts with a mild soap and water and clean any upholstery when needed.
• Take Notice: If you detect any unfamiliar noises or loss of functionality with your wheelchair, deal with it promptly to avoid a more serious problem.

🧰 Helpful Wheelchair Accessories

There is a wide range of wheelchair accessories that offer comfort and convenience to both patients and caregivers.  The following are some of the more popular accessories for wheelchair users:

Wheelchair Cushions:

There are a number of different wheelchair cushions both gel and foam.  This includes individual seat, back, leg and foot cushions, and comprehensive cushions that cover the back, seat and calves of the user. Regardless of the type of wheelchair you have, cushions will provide comfort and protection. Cushions can also help wheelchair patients avoid developing pressure ulcers when they are seated in a wheelchair for long periods of time. 

Torso Support: 

The torso support has straps that help the wheelchair user sit upright and more securely in the chair.  They prevent the patient from leaning and sliding forward and are adjustable to ensure a comfortable fit. The straps go around the torso and over the shoulders of the wheelchair patient and around the back of the chair to promote stability, security and comfort.

Anti-tip devices:

If the manual wheelchair patient has balance issues or if they are routinely accessing ramps or on uneven terrain, using an anti-tip device provides additional support. They are easy to install and offer added security and peace-of-mind to both patient and caregiver.

Cup and Phone Holders:

There is a variety of cup and phone holders that can be easily attached to wheelchairs, rollators and walkers. They keep essential items such as mobile phones, water bottles or beverage cups handy whether you’re at home, on an errand or attending an event. 

Mobility Tote Bag: 

An all-purpose tote bag is an ideal accessory that can be easily attached to a power wheelchair, manual wheelchair, transport lightweight wheelchair, walker or rollator. It provides multiple compartments including a secure front pouch, side pouches and a large center holder that keeps all your important items close at hand. The lightweight compact design allows you to use the tote to store glasses, phones, writing implements, water cups, medications and a variety of other items. 

Honest Medical is Here to Help

Whether you depend on a wheelchair some of the time, or you are a long-term user, Honest Medical is here to assist you with all your mobility needs. In addition to a wide range of manual wheelchairs and a transport lightweight wheelchair, Honest Medical provides an array of mobility devices and accessories that support your independence and promote overall well-being. Learn more by speaking to an Honest Care Specialist at (833) 933-2323. We’re here to provide you with product knowledge, support, and expertise to ensure you get the right products for your unique needs and budget. Visit our Honest Medical Ideas pages for articles on the best mobility aids and more.