Some people think wheelchairs are simply chairs with wheels. Those who have experienced riding one or have to be in one for a long time would know the difference between a good one and a bad one. More so, they will be able to identify if the wheelchair is not suitable for their needs.
If you plan on shopping for one, you must know what options you have. With the different types of wheelchairs designed with various features, finding the right one can be challenging. So, we have gathered helpful information about each one to make sure you make the right decision before purchasing one.
Different Wheelchair Options for You
Check out each type of wheelchair’s use, advantages, and disadvantages before making a choice. Make sure to get one that is appropriately designed for your requirements. Always remember to consider its features and how it fits your needs and budget.
Powered Wheelchairs
If you are looking for a long-term type that can give you maximum mobility with less strain and exhaustion, this is the perfect choice for you. It features a motor that lets you run it through a battery. This electric wheelchair can come in different forms and designs, but one thing is for sure, this is heavier than other kinds. It usually comes with controllers or, sometimes, hand steering. This is ideal for those who want to maximize their independence while using it. The only downside to this is that it may not be ideal for trips that involve a lot of lifting and carrying.
Manual Wheelchairs
As opposed to powered wheelchairs, a manual wheelchair gets around and functions by self-propelling. To give you a better and clearer picture of this, the person sitting in a wheelchair will be maneuvering through the handling of the wheels. It can be pivoted, moved backward, and forward. The good side of it is that these are versatile. Some designs are lightweight and easy to carry, others come with folding features, and the rest lean on the heavier side for heavy-duty capacity. This makes it ideal for those who often travel and necessitate car transfers. The downside for this type is that it can be tiring for those who travel far distances.
Positioning Wheelchairs
This is an excellent choice for those who want to achieve better circulation or have conditions that need constant repositioning. Positioning wheelchairs, as the name implies, allow the user to switch to different positions. These can come in battery-powered or electric forms. The typical feature of these would be raising or lowering foot and leg rests, reclining backward, or a combination of these and a whole other movement. Every kind may have varied positioning capabilities. This is ideal for individuals who are suffering from physical or health mobility and impairments. To know how to find a great one among other options in the market, you can opt to read a wheelchair guide.
Pediatric Wheelchairs
Since there is no exemption for kids needing wheelchairs, pediatric wheelchairs are made to cater to them specifically. These can come in the forms of specialized or manual powered forms with various features made to provide comfort for a child. Most of these come with technology that assists them better than regular ones. It sometimes comes in fun-looking models to make it more pleasant for kids as they use them. These are created to give the perfect fit to children who need them.
All-Terrain Wheelchairs
If you are a person who has a love for constant traveling but is required to use a wheelchair for a long or short period of time, an all-terrain wheelchair is the best option. These are designed in various shapes, sizes, power, and styles. These usually have larger wheels, upgraded features, extra suspension support, and heavy-duty capacity. This aids in maintaining balance and providing support amidst different terrains. The only downside of this is that it may not be ideal for frequent lifting and transport.
Standing Power Wheelchairs
Probably the most mind-blowing type among the rest, the standing power wheelchair provides a function like no other. It allows the user to assume a sitting or standing position safely and automatically. This electric wheelchair is a groundbreaking innovation for those with health issues and disabilities because it gives them the flexibility and independence altogether. Though this comes with amazing capabilities, it may come at a high cost.
Conclusion
People will need to use a wheelchair for varied reasons. Some need it temporarily, while others need it permanently. Regardless, the purpose of using one should be satisfied and met by the type of wheelchair to be used. In your next shopping purchase, make sure to consider all the types mentioned above and get to know about its features, benefits, and downsides. By having the knowledge of each type’s capabilities, you get higher chances of getting and maximizing the right style for your use.
