Choosing the Right Type of Wheelchair
Being in a situation where you need the assistance of a wheel chair in order to get around on a regular basis, whether it is temporarily or permanently, often means that you have a serious decision to make when it comes to choosing the right wheel chair. And with so many different types and styles of wheel chairs out there, it can sometimes be difficult to know which one is going to be the bets fit for you. However, it does not have the be frustrating or stressful to find a great wheelchair. In fact, by just keeping a few different factors in mind and then shopping accordingly, you can pick out a great wheel chair for yourself in no time.
What Do You Need It For?
The first thing that you are going to want to consider is how long you will be needing the wheel chair for. If you need one for a temporary injury or condition, then it may be wise to spend less money on the chair.
However, if this is a chair that you will be spending a lot of time in over the course of your lifetime, then you are probably going to want to consider something that will be a little bit more comfortable, durable, long lasting and expensive.
What Is Your Budget?
Once you have that figured out, it is time to start considering your actual budget that you would like to remain within when buying the wheel chair itself. In doing this, it is also a good idea to speak with your health insurance company, if applicable, to see if there is anything they might be able to do in assisting you with the cost of the chair itself.
A lot of times, health insurance companies can help cover these expenses and make it more affordable for you to get the right chair. In some cases, they may even cover all of the expenses of the chair itself, though this is not typical.
What Type Of Chair Do You Need?
Next, you will want to consider the type of chair that you are looking for. Specifically, are you willing and able to get a chair that you wheel around on your own or do you need one that is attendant propelled?
A lot of times, this will depend on the specific condition that you are in. However, for those who are able to, it is a good idea to get a self propelled chair with large wheels so that you can get around on your own. These tend to also have handles on the back for an attendant to help push the chair if needed, so they function in both ways, which can be an added benefit.
At this point, it is a good idea to consider the type of material that you would like the chair to be made from. For those who will be transporting the chair a lot, it is a good idea to get a lightweight aluminium chair.
For example, this is ideal for people who will be taking the chair onto vans, buses or just about anywhere else where it would need to be transported or stored. However, for those who are more concerned with the durability of the chair and are not as worried about the weight of it, it is a good idea to choose a steel wheel chair.
How Heavy Are You?
At this point, it is a good idea to consider the type of material that you would like the chair to be made from. For those who will be transporting the chair a lot, it is a good idea to get a lightweight aluminium chair.
For example, this is ideal for people who will be taking the chair onto vans, buses or just about anywhere else where it would need to be transported or stored. However, for those who are more concerned with the durability of the chair and are not as worried about the weight of it, it is a good idea to choose a steel wheel chair.
Finally, it is important to consider your own weight and size when using a chair. For larger people who are heavier built or even just taller, it may be more difficult to find a chair that is comfortable for them if they do not take the time to shop around. And for smaller or petite people, it is a good idea to look around for chairs that are easily maneuverable, especially for those who plan on getting one that is self propelled. Also, choosing a chair that can support all of your weight and still be durable is important.
Summary
Keeping all of these factors in mind when shopping for Wheelchairs is important and will help you to find the one that is right for you in the shortest amount of time and with the least amount of stress. So remember this when it comes time to shop for your new chair, and good luck!
