Older people have limited mobility due to their age. Therefore, they cannot enjoy going for a long walk with others. As we age, our limbs start to become weak, and we cannot do everything as we could at an early age. However, to increase the older people’s mobility, wheelchairs, both manual and electric, come into the scene. But, you may want to know how to choose a wheelchair for elderly?
Many factors are associated when you head over to purchase a wheelchair, especially for the elders. You have to consider their physical ability, ability to control the powered wheelchairs’ speed, features of the wheelchairs, comfort, and many more things. Otherwise, you may end up buying a wrong one that may not satisfy your needs.
Different Types of Wheelchairs for Elderly
Wheelchairs are of two major types- manual wheelchairs and powered or electric wheelchairs. Both wheelchairs are great in the case of improving your mobility, whether it is indoor as well as outdoor. A manual wheelchair needs the assistance of others all the time to help you maneuver it. On the other hand, a powered or electric wheelchair does not require anybody’s aid.
Manual wheelchairs are for those elderly people who require one for indoor and outdoor, cannot go for long-distance walking and the like. Electric wheelchairs can be divided into three categories, including portable, outdoor, and indoor/outdoor. The advantage of having a wheelchair, whether it is manual or electric, is you can move around more comfortably than a mobility scooter.
How to Choose a Wheelchair for Elderly?
When it comes to choosing a wheelchair for the elderly, you need to be more careful because it, sometimes, maybe a difficult task for you. The market has already been flooded with so many brands and models of wheelchairs for the elderly. Depending on their physical ability, a lightweight transport wheelchair should be a better option left for you. So, the question comes- how to choose a wheelchair for elderly?
If they have difficulty walking, a powered wheelchair should be the best bet. Apart from that, it would be best if you considered many other factors. These include physical health and spirit, ability to control the speed, ability to get into and off from the wheelchair. Comfort, adjustability, footrest, head support also need to be considered before you buy one.
Comfort
When it comes to purchasing a wheelchair for a senior, you must take a close look at the wheelchair for comfort. If the person needs to use a wheelchair for the long-term or life, it is necessary to pay attention to the chair’s support.
Therefore, you should not buy a wheelchair from an online e-commerce site. Instead, you can go to the nearest local shop because you should try the wheelchair before paying for it. If you are comfortable enough sitting on it, you can make the final purchase.
Adjustability
It is another essential feature that tells you how to choose a wheelchair for elderly. It may be difficult for a senior to sit in the wheelchair for a long time in one seating position. Therefore, you need to adjust the height considering the person’s height. Not only that, but you should also take a look at whether the cushion pads of the wheelchair are replaceable.
The seat’s material should be breathable enough to provide a senior with the best comfort while sitting. So, make sure you have examined the wheelchair’s adjustability before you make the final buying decision.
Support
A suitable wheelchair should be one that provides better head support. A senior cannot keep his head straight for a long time. Therefore, it should be a crucial consideration to have better head support for him. It allows him to keep the head, spine, and neck in the upright position, which is beneficial for him.
Not only that, the footrest and the back support are also considerable. In the wheelchair, elderly people may need to sit for a more extended period. In this case, having proper support for the head, neck, spine, feet, and hands also is a significant feature to have in it.
Storage
A right storage solution is preferable to the seniors. They love to have their medical products, some snacks, and good reading in the storage. It may be a drawer or anything that will meet the need for their storage solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Maybe, you have other related queries in your mind that are moving around, right? So, here are some most frequently asked questions you may be finding the answers. That’s why; I have come up with their best possible solutions to satisfy you.
How often can you get a wheelchair through Medicare?
Depending on your physical condition and disability, the doctor who is also a registered Medicare member will suggest to you whether you need to rent a wheelchair or buy one for your long-term needs.
How long does it take to get a wheelchair through Medicare?
Before you apply for a wheelchair, you need to fulfill the requirements, whether it is powered or manual. If everything is alright and the doctor prescribes you a wheelchair, it may take a short time.
How often should a wheelchair be serviced?
Your wheelchair needs to be serviced once a year. Also, it depends on maintenance and how often you use it for your daily activities. Proper maintenance and care ensure wheelchairs longevity.
Final Thought
A wheelchair can improve the way of living for a senior citizen. It would be best if you considered a lot of things before you purchase a wheelchair for the elderly. I do hope that you have understood everything you need on how to choose a wheelchair for elderly.
Through the article, I have tried to make things clear so that you can get a wheelchair that will best suit your needs. Make sure you have considered comfort, adjustability, support, storage, and other things related to a wheelchair.
