How to Choose the Right Wheelchair
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How to Choose the Right Wheelchair for Your Parent or Patient
When selecting a wheelchair for your parents or other individuals that you care for, the right choice could greatly enhance their comfort, safety and independence, while the wrong choice could ultimately cause them discomfort and daily frustration. This Wheelchair Buying Guide India will help you understand how to determine which wheelchair will best meet your home care requirement(s), medical condition(s) and lifestyle, using simple and clear terminology as well as without compromising your ability to make an informed decision.
Understand the User’s Mobility Needs
The first step in choosing a Wheelchair is finding out what level of Mobility the intended person has or anticipates that they may require. Some users have the ability to ambulate (e.g., walk), for short periods and/or distances; while at other times they may use a wheelchair exclusively. This means that you will have to find out what type of chair and accessories the user may ultimately require. Users have various different levels of Mobility (needs), so it is important to know this information first.
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Ask questions like:
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Can the person sit upright comfortably?
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Do they have enough arm strength to self-propel?
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Will the wheelchair be used indoors, outdoors, or both?
Answering these will help you find the best wheelchair for home use without unnecessary features.
Manual vs Electric Wheelchair: Which Is Better?
The debate about manual vs electric wheelchairs will continue. Manual wheelchairs can be propelled by the individual or by someone pushing them and are lightweight, less expensive, and easy to use for short time or short distances indoors; therefore, using a manual wheelchair is typically a better choice for home use than hospital use. Electric wheelchairs operate on batteries and have a joystick control; electric wheelchairs are appropriate for people who do not possess sufficient arm strength to use a manual wheelchair or for long-term mobility issues. Although electric wheelchairs may cost somewhat more to purchase, they afford people with greater independence with daily activities.
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In addition, for the elderly parent living at home, a manual wheelchair will typically be adequate for their needs. An electric wheelchair could be more beneficial for someone with a long-term need for mobility assistance.
Types of Wheelchairs Simplified
When you comprehend how types of wheelchairs work in very basic terms, you can have a better understanding of the various types of wheelchairs and therefore to ease confusion. There are a number of different types of common wheelchairs available:
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Traditional wheelchairs – These wheelchairs are ruggedly built and offer stability for daily use in the home
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Lightweight wheelchairs – Wheelchairs that are lightweight; easily collapsible; and easily transferred, lifted, and stored.
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Reclining wheelchairs – Wheelchairs that recline. Patients that need back support may benefit from these types of wheelchairs.
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Commode wheelchairs – Wheelchairs designed to be used while using the bathroom; especially beneficial for patients having issues with going to the bathroom.
Each of the types of wheels serves various mobility solutions for different patients, so select/upload depending on the medical technology physician's advice and routine.
Key Features of a Lightweight Wheelchair
When searching for a portable wheelchair, make sure it has lightweight features. Lightweight wheelchairs will allow you to carry or push easily and store easily.
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A list of the most important features include:
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Foldable frame - Offers ease to be placed into storage
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Aluminum/alloy body - Offers lightweight construction with strength
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Comfortable seat/backrest - Allows the patient to sit comfortably while resting
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Detachable Footrests & Armrests - Provides convenience when transferring patients
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Smooth-rolling wheels with brakes - Makes it easier to move the patient for daily use by both the caregiver and the patient.
When a wheelchair fits properly, it is comfortable and safe to use. Measure the user's seat width, depth and back height to ensure proper fit. Also, the wheelchair must have adequate safety features for use, such as:
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Strong brakes
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Anti-slip footrests
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Comfortable cushioned seating
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Strong wheels for floor use indoors
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For long-term home care, comfort and safety are essential.
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Indoor Layout and Ability to Access the Home
Before making a purchasing decision, assess the layout of your home. A wheelchair may require a compact model if you have narrow doorways, small rooms, or uneven flooring in your home. For apartment living, the best wheelchair for home use is generally foldable, lightweight and easy to store.
Ensure the wheelchair will move through doorways easily and can fit into a bathroom if the user requires it.
Budget and Post Purchase Support in India
Depending on the type and features, wheelchair prices can vary widely within India. Manual wheelchairs are generally the least expensive option, while electric wheelchairs are significantly more expensive. It is important to purchase your wheelchair from a trusted supplier that provides warranty and service support.
This Wheelchair Buying Guide India shows you how to combine budget and quality when selecting a wheelchair rather than simply selecting the least expensive wheelchair.
In Closing
The best wheelchair for your needs has to provide comfort, safety and ease of use everyday. You will be better prepared to make a decision by understanding the needs of the user and comparing manual vs electric wheelchair options and examining the wheelchair feature details. Ultimately, selecting the best wheelchair improves both the user's independence and quality of life and the caregiver's quality of life.
