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Our Guide to Buying a Wheelchair

Our Guide to Buying a Wheelchair
August 25, 2022

To put it simply, wheelchairs provide independence to people who have difficulty walking. Offering support with everyday tasks, they reduce the impact that limited mobility has on your day-to-day life.

Taking the time to consider your needs and requirements will be worthwhile in the long run and ensure you get the most out of your wheelchair. 

 

What do you need to consider before buying a wheelchair?

There are a number of factors worth considering before buying a wheelchair, and they can be anything from the following:

What do you need a wheelchair for?

  • Will it be used indoors, outdoors, or both?

  • Does it need to be rugged and hardwearing?

  • Does it need to be easily transported?

How will you use a wheelchair?

  • With the help of a carer or self-propelled?

  • Would an electric wheelchair be more appropriate?

  • Does it need to fold when not in use?

  • Is there a specific style or material you’re looking for?

  • What is your budget?

 

If you have a wheelchair in mind already, we’d recommend taking a moment to ensure it fits your specific needs, for example:

  • The size of the wheelchair, can you reach the brakes?

  • Is the cushion comfortable enough?

  • Do you need any additional accessories to improve your comfort?

  • Can it fit through doorways and tight passages?

  • If a carer is needed, is it easy to push?

  • What weight capacity do you need?

  • Can you easily enter and exit your wheelchair into beds, onto sofas etc?

 

Wheelchair

 

What types of wheelchairs are available?

There is a wide range of wheelchair types available at Fenetic Wellbeing. Here’s some of the most popular wheelchairs on the market:

Electric Wheelchairs

Electric wheelchairs, otherwise known as powered wheelchairs, are perfect for everyday use and something we have a wide range of here at Fenetic Wellbeing. Powered by a battery and electronic motor system, they’re the ideal choice for when a manual chair just isn’t an option.

They’re also great for covering longer distances without the need to exert excessive amounts of energy, and in most cases, they can be easily folded and stored away when they’re not being used.

 

Lightweight Wheelchairs

Otherwise known as travel wheelchairs, these are one of the more transportable wheelchair types and, as the name suggests, are very lightweight and convenient. Lightweight wheelchairs have a collapsible frame allowing them to be stored and transported with ease, as well as some being able to support weight up to 18 stone.

 

Self-Propelled Wheelchair

These are designed with larger wheels to allow the user to propel themselves whilst in the chair, without the help of a carer. Larger rear wheels offer speed control for the user, but most come with pushing handles so can easily be assisted if needed. For those who benefit from a carer, we’d also recommend looking at transit wheelchairs.

 

Bariatric Wheelchairs

Specifically designed for the larger wheelchair user, bariatric wheelchairs are sturdy and built with a wider frame. Despite their larger frames, we are able to supply both transit and self-propelled bariatric wheelchairs.

 

Powered Wheelchairs  

Created to give you back some of the independence you may have lost, powered wheelchairs have been designed to give control back to users who struggle to push along manual wheelchairs. Powered by battery and electric motor, they're a great solution for covering longer distances. 

 

 

Wheelchair

 

How wide is a wheelchair?

Wheelchairs come in a variety of different widths, depending on the needs of the user.

If you are looking for a wide frame, then we would recommend taking a look at bariatric wheelchairs. These particular wheelchairs off a wide frame, but are still easily transportable in a standard vehicle.

A standard wheelchair measures around 41 inches in depth, much like our self propel wheelchair. This is measured from the back of the rear wheel to the front of the headrest. The width of a wheelchair depends on what style you go for, so it’s important to take that into consideration before finalising your decision.

 

What wheelchair accessories can you get?

There are a number of wheelchair accessories you can get to improve your wheelchair experience. From 2” and 4” thick memory foam cushions to padded long armpads, there are a range of accessories available to suit your needs.

For those who require travel whilst elevating their legs, there are elevated leg rests available to maximise comfort and stability. Padded armpads also provide extra protection from wear and tear, as well as offering additional comfort.

It’s not just about comfort though… we know how important convenience is too! Walking stick holders are a practical storage solution when on the move and waterproof wheelchair ponchos will help keep you dry on rainy days.

Wheelchair

Where to get a wheelchair?

We stock a wide range of wheelchairs depending on your needs and requirements. We’re always here to help if you need guidance on making a decision, so don’t hesitate to contact a member of the Fenetic team if that’s the case.

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How To Make The Most Of Your Recliner Chair
Next Article: May 9, 2019
Our Guide to Recliner Chairs