The wheelchair can be considered the equivalent of a car. Therefore, the decision to purchase a wheelchair must be weighed very carefully, as the means of transport that provides you with the desired mobility.
Wheelchairs are specially designed for users according to age, lifestyle and anatomical features. Therefore, these can have manual or electric drive, can be used indoor or outdoors, and can be used by adults or children.
There can be several reasons why you might need a wheelchair. Whether it is recommended to you for temporary use, occasionally or permanently, you need to think about several aspects.
We recommend asking yourself a series of questions that will help you discover the type of wheelchair you will need:
- How often will you use it?
- How much time will you spend in the wheelchair (permanent, occasional, for a short period of time)?
- Where will it be used the most, indoors or outdoors?
- How will the wheelchair be transported? Does it need to be folded? Can it be folded?
- What kind of terrain will it be used on? (urban, rural, offroad)
- Are there sidewalks, ramps in the spaces you will use it?
- Will the wheelchair support you for a physical or medical condition?
Once you establish the answers, you will also need to study a little about the technical characteristics of wheelchairs. Because the technical data sheet of these devices is usually quite extensive, we will give you some details that you should keep in mind when you are planning to buy a wheelchair.
Manual or electric?
This is probably the most important detail you need to check before making your choice. Would you need to use a manual wheelchair or opt for an electric, more powerful one? Before answering this question you must take into account mobility calculation. If you have limited mobility or need of additional assistance, an electric wheelchair is what you need. But if you just need a wheelchair temporarily or occasionally, our recommendation is to opt for a manually operated wheelchair, which is more suitable for your needs.
Wheelchair size and technical dimensions
When choosing a wheelchair you need to consider size. It is very important to find one that is the right size, otherwise you may have problems when you sit and use it (if it’s too small), and if it’s too big you risk slipping out of it. Make sure you measure the width and the wheelchair height.
Your age, weight and height should be considered. Remember that there are special wheelcair designed for children, but also for adults, each with their own physical characteristics and for different medical conditions. Also, remember that each wheelchair has a maximum weight limit.
Armrests and footrests
The armrests and footrests are designed to give you support and comfort. They need to be sturdy and secure, especially for the times you do transfer to/from the wheelchair. There are a variety of models of armrests and feet supports you need to consider and choose what suits you best. Their length and stability will help you feel comfortable and safe when you move.
Storage and transportation
It is important to choose a model that meets, not only your mobility needs from the comfort of your own home, but wherever you go.
When you plan to travel by car or will use the public transport transport, you must opt for a folding wheelchair and always know its size to make sure you can store it in safety and take with you anywhere.
Make sure the wheelchair meets your storage and transportation needs before purchasing.
The wheels
The wheels you choose are very important. These must meet your mobility needs. For example, if you use your wheelchair outdoors frequently, you will needed a more durable tire that is designed to perform on several types of surfaces. Adherence can also be an important consideration. If you use the wheelchair outdoors during winter, or when the surface is smooth indoors, you will need tires that have reduced service needs, such as foam-filled tires. They are less likely to run on a smooth surface.
Reclining backrest and headrest
The possibility of reclining the backrest will vary according to your needs, medical condition, mobility, size, and other factors. It is essential to find a wheelchair that gives you the optimal recline of backrest and headrest attachment. If you need more support, reclining wheelchairs give you a variety of options positioning, and this allows you to adjust the wheelchair in such a way that meets your needs, but mostly for extra effort.
If you have any questions or if you wish to know more about our wheelchairs, you can write to us by email contact@ortopedica.ro or you can visit us in the nearest ORTOPEDICA store https://ortopedica.ro/contact/
We will be happy to help you choose the right wheelchair that meets your needs.
