The Ultimate Guide to Manual Wheelchairs
Learning how to use a manual wheelchair effectively will help you regain your independence faster. Manual wheelchairs are less expensive than their electric counterparts, making them more affordable. Repairs cost less and they often weigh less than a powered chair too.
A manual wheelchair is a mobility device that allows a person with limited mobility to travel around independently. A manual wheelchair is different from an electric or a powered wheelchair as it does not require electricity, has no motor and must be operated through self-propelling or a carer pushing from behind. Learning how to use a manual wheelchair effectively will help you regain your independence faster. Manual wheelchairs are less expensive than their electric counterparts, making them more affordable. Repairs cost less and they often weigh less than a powered chair too. Here’s everything you need to know about manual wheelchairs before buying one:
Types of Manual Wheelchairs
Manual wheelchairs come in many shapes and sizes and are built using a variety of materials. By considering the different types of manual wheelchairs, you can find the one that best suits your needs and lifestyle. Our extensive range of scripted manual wheelchairs allows you to select and customise the best solutions for your unique needs. Because our wheelchairs are built-to-order in Australia, we can also incorporate preferences for colour combinations and add accessories to make your wheelchair truly personalised.
Standard Rigid Wheelchair
These manual rigid frame wheelchairs have fewer moving parts and have a durable design that can withstand the elements. They are strong and usually made from lightweight materials such as aluminum or carbon fiber. They are recommended for active users with good upper body strength and function. They often require less effort when pushing and allow for the easy independent transfer of the user from the wheelchair to a car for example.
Folding Wheelchair
Standard folding wheelchairs are specifically designed to be lightweight and highly portable. They are often collapsible for easy transportation and storage.
Transport Wheelchair
As the name suggests, transport wheelchairs are for those who do not require a wheelchair on a daily basis. These wheelchairs are used primarily to move or transfer a person from one location to the next with ease. Transport wheelchairs have minimum adjustments available but are a great source of convenience for the occasional short-term user.
Manual Wheelchair Advantages
Cost-effective
Wheelchairs are one of the most expensive mobility aids, and manual wheelchairs are less expensive to operate than electric wheelchairs. Manual wheelchairs are designed to be durable and long-lasting, making them a great investment.
Lightweight
Manual wheelchairs are often lightweight and portable. They can be easily lifted in and out of cars and you do not need to modify your vehicle in order to transport them.
Easy to use
Compared to electric wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs are easy to use for both carer and the user. Manual wheelchairs also require less costly maintenance and spare parts.
Determining the Right Size for You
One of the first things to consider before buying a manual wheelchair is the size. Manual wheelchairs come in a variety of sizes and should fit your body type. You should measure the seat width to find the right fit for you. If the seat width is too narrow, it will pinch your hips, making it hard to sit in the wheelchair for long periods of time and causing other health complications. If the seat width is too wide, it will cause discomfort and make it difficult for you to navigate your wheelchair properly. A manual wheelchair should feel comfortable and supportive.
Finding the Correct Manual Wheelchair for You
To ensure you find the right wheelchair for you, here’s a quick guide to the following qualities when considering the purchase of a manual wheelchair:
Weight capacity: Manual wheelchairs have weight limits (Safe Working Load-SWL) for safety and durability. Make sure the wheelchair you choose has a suitable SWL and the manual should not fail even if your weight is on par with the SWL of the wheelchair.
Comfort (Size): An important factor when choosing a manual wheelchair is comfort. Manual wheelchairs come in many different styles, and sizes and are built out of different materials. Better quality wheelchairs should be flexible in design and can be cost-effectively adjusted to specific purposes and functions.
Ease of use: Manual wheelchairs should be easy to operate for both the user and/or the carer. Consider if portability is important for your needs and any restrictions in the home.
Transport: Check if it has been crashed-tested and approved for transport, or if it has folding, removable rear wheels or a fold-down backrest. This will open up transportation options for you.
Recommended Manual Wheelchairs
Our extensive range of manual wheelchairs allows you to select and customise the best solutions for your unique needs. Because our wheelchairs are built-to-order in Australia, we can also incorporate preferences for colour combinations and add any accessories to make a chair truly personalised.
Scroll through our range of Manual Wheelchairs and click to see the variations available for each model…
Conclusion
When you’re ready to choose a manual wheelchair, speak to your occupational therapist who can help you decide what’s best suited for your needs, and to allow you greater independence and mobility. Call us at Glide (08) 9345 3400 or find a distributor near you.
Your chair. Your way.
As one of Australia’s leading wheelchair manufacturers, Glide Products specialises in wheelchair accessories and spare parts. Glide offers a range of power-assisted chairs, together with power add-on kits for manual models, designed to give you an extra boost of power whenever you need it.
Explore our spare parts or contact us for more information. For more information on power add-ons, read our article or check out the full range on the Glide website here.
