Certain features of your new wheelchair will make your chair more comfortable.
Know what “extras” will make it easier for you to do your daily activities.
Also, make an informed decision about the “extras” you don’t need.
Consult your physical therapist and the sales person about all of the structural features of the wheelchair. Utilize interactive websites to provide measurements, for a comfortable fit. The right fitting chair gives you the best mobility, range, stability, and comfort.
Find out if the controls or brakes are easy to use and reach. Consider if the footrests should be adjustable, movable or detachable. Depending on the surfaces/ terrain you anticipate using most, and whether or not you will propel the chair, the wheel size is a major factor when making a selection. Certain style armrests work better than other’s depending on how you transfer and your level of activities. A lap tray might be helpful to have on your wheelchair.
Proper seating is an important part of wheelchair fitting. There are many different seat cushions and backrests that can be added to your chair. The newer model wheelchairs have anti-microbial stain-resistant fabric. There are also ergonomic designs, with S-shaped seating. These features help you sit with better posture, and reduce pressure sores, back pain, and spinal deformities caused by chronic poor posture. A good seat cushion is a must to help prevent pressure sores, especially for anyone who has a loss of feeling in their buttocks.
Tilt seating distributes your weight in the chair. This is ideal for prolonged sitting, and provides an alternative to tranferring in and out of the chair to recline. Anti-tippers can prevent you from flipping over backwards or falling out of your chair.
There is a wide range of prices and styles of wheelchairs on the market. However it is important to remember, the one you choose should be specific to your personal needs. This is not a “one size fits all” item.
