Wheelchairs

What should you look out for when choosing wheelchairs?

1. Weight of wheelchair – Lightweight aluminum or steel wheelchair  

• A lighter aluminum wheelchair will be easier to bring around than a heavier steel wheelchair 

2. Wheelchair or Pushchair  

• You will require wheelchairs with big wheels if you can wheel yourself around 
• A pushchair, which has small wheels, is lighter and more suitable if there is someone to push you around  

3. Arm-rests and foot-rests that are fixed or can be removed 

• Wheelchairs parts that can be removed allow you to push the arm-rest and foot-rest to the side for an easier transfer from the wheelchair to a normal chair or bed.  

4. Width of wheelchair  

• The wider the wheelchair, the harder it is to push it through narrow spaces like doorways. 
• Seat that is too wide for you may lead to bad posture. 

5. Cost of wheelchairs 

Notes on Safety and Handling

• Remember to lock the wheels before getting out or into the wheelchair 
• Lift up the foot-rests before getting off the wheelchair