Why customisation is key to a comfortable wheelchair.

A customised wheelchair is about so much more than just a means of transport. It offers comfort, improved functionality and a greater sense of individuality.

Back in the early days of wheelchair technology, the options available to people with injury or disability were slim. Comfort tended to take a back seat to mobility, creating wheelchairs that were capable of transporting users, but often causing discomfort and even long-term injury in the process. Plus, with many wheelchairs being made overseas and then shipped to Australia, the opportunity for customisation was extremely limited.

Fast-forward to today, and customised wheelchairs are now helping to put users’ needs and comfort right where they should be ­– at the very heart of wheelchair design. At Glide, we’re proud to offer almost limitless customisation options for our customers, taking all of their current and future needs into account.

We’ve put together a few of the top benefits that a customised wheelchair provides, so keep reading to find out more. 

1. Help prevent injury.

A customised headrest, backrest, cushioning and other features all go a very long way when it comes to helping to prevent injury and discomfort. Combined, these features help to greatly improve posture and shoulder alignment, helping to avoid long-term back, neck and shoulder pain and other associated injuries that come from slouching or slipping in the seat.

Customised cushioning also helps to prevent pressure sores by distributing pressure points more evenly, offering long-term support, optimum comfort and improved quality of life. Specialised waterproof, semi-permeable and anti-fungal materials also help to extend the life of wheelchair cushions, beckrests and headrests, offering a greater value for money solution.  

You can find out more about the many benefits of Glide’s range of customised cushioning, backrest and headrest options here.

 2. Boost confidence and self-esteem.

With a range of features and innovations available to suit every need and range of ability, customised wheelchairs help to boost confidence and self-esteem by offering greater independence as a true extension of the user.

From the latest touchscreen-operated joystick technology with LiNX, to features that allow users to take part in much-loved sporting or community activities more easily and effectively, there are so many options now available through customisation.

3. Improve mobility.

A customised wheelchair offers a huge range of benefits when it comes to improved mobility for users. This doesn’t just mean making it easier to get from A to B with ease, but also for performing day-to-day functions that many other people might take for granted. Features like adjustable armrests and leg rests also help to make users more comfortable while on-the-go, and also help to improve circulation. 

Thanks to improved mobility, customised wheelchairs are able to tackle a range of terrains, helping to open up greater opportunities when it comes to heading outside and exploring a range of new places. Having a wheelchair designed for easier movement and transport also helps to minimise fatigue.  

To get the most out of a customised wheelchair when it comes to mobility, there are a few important things to consider:

-        Where will the wheelchair be used most?

-        What kinds of activities will be performed?

-        How will the wheelchair be transported?

-        How much time each day will be spent in the wheelchair?

The answer to these questions will help to influence the design and materials used in each wheelchair.

4. Enjoy greater individuality. 

It’s not just improved functionality that makes a customised wheelchair the way to go. Gone are the days when wheelchairs were available in one of two colours – dark grey or black – which somehow didn’t quite inspire a sense of individuality.

At Glide, our wheelchairs are available in a huge range of colours, helping to reflect the individual style and taste of each user. From deep blacks, navy blues and emerald greens, through to warm yellows, fiery reds and everything in between, everyone’s favourite colours are truly represented. View our range to see the full colour palette available.

5. Start your journey today.

When it comes to finding the right wheelchair, it’s important to make sure you’re fully involved in the process right from the start. This way, you can be sure your new wheelchair is truly made for you, offering many years of comfortable and functional use and helping you make the most of every opportunity.

Be sure to be clear about your goals (both now and in the future), as well as specific needs, to make sure you get the very best result. Our Glide team is here to support you every step of the way, and are always ready to discuss next steps with you. To arrange a chat or a free trail, contact our friendly team or find your nearest distributor.