A wheelchair is a medical device that provides mobility to people with disabilities, and it’s an essential piece of equipment for many. The wheelchairs come in different shapes and sizes. Finding the right wheelchair for your loved one can be a task. There are a number of options and features to choose from that it can be difficult to determine which is best.
Reports indicate that most people use unfitting wheelchairs. This happens because of factors such as people’s inability to understand how to do a wheelchair measurement or because people don’t want to experience the hassle of finding another wheelchair. This is a hazard as it can impede one’s health and mobility.
This article covers different wheelchairs, their benefits and how to know the best fit for optimal performance.
Benefits of aWell-Fitting Wheelchair
Enhanced Mobility
A wheelchair that fits properly will help improve your mobility or your loved ones by making it easier to move around.
Improves Comfort
A comfortable wheelchair will help to reduce fatigue and make sitting in it more enjoyable.
Reduces Pain and Discomfort
Improperly fitted wheelchairs can often lead to pain and discomfort. This is due to the straining associated with it. However, a correctly-sized wheelchair should eliminate these problems.
Enhances Socialization and Independence
It will be easier for a wheelchair user to move around comfortably and meet friends and families. Additionally, the user will be able to complete various tasks alone; hence no need to be a bother to others.
Wheelchair Types
Thedifferent wheelchair types include:
Manual Wheelchairs
These offer maximum independence and require less maintenance. They’re also cheaper than other options. However, they do take some amount of energy to operate.
Power Wheelchairs
This type of chair offers greater control over movement as well as speed. It also allows an individual with reduced upper-body mobility or muscle impairment from cerebral palsy symptoms as arm stiffness, spasticity and muscle tightness to move around with ease.
Components to Guide You through the Selection Process
Wheelchair Size
Ideally, there should be an inch or two between the backrest and the user. Additionally, there needs to be approximately four inches from the front edge of the seat pan toward the bottom cushioning or footrest area (if applicable).
Wheelchair Width
There are several options available, including narrow, standard and extra wide. Hence, it’s important that you get this right as otherwise, they may not fit well or maybe uncomfortable.
Seat Depth
This depth can be determined by measuring between backrest cushioning or upholstery on top where the user sits (or highest point) toward the bottom of the chair. There should ideally be a minimum two-inch gap from the front edge of the seat pan down toward the lowest part to ensure proper weight distribution.
Backrest Height
The backrest height needs toalign with the shoulder blades to recline comfortably. There are a variety of adjustments that can usually be made to ensure this happens.
Armrest Length & Width
Armrests come in different shapes and sizes. However, they should generally fit snugly against the user’s arms without being too tight or restrictive. They should also be adjustable to provide maximum comfort and support.
Footrest
Footrests must be of comfortable length and width. This will ensure they’re able to prop feet up in a comfortable position and avoid any strain or discomfort.