Wheelchair: what is it for, how to choose it and who needs it

A wheelchair is a specialized medical device designed to move and care for people with limited mobility. Such devices are widely used both at home and in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, geriatric nursing homes and outpatient clinics. Modern wheelchairs are designed taking into account the anatomy of the body, the needs of patients and the convenience of caregivers.

What is a wheelchair for?

The main function of a wheelchair is to safely transport a person who cannot move independently or needs constant support. Unlike classic wheelchairs, a wheelchair is usually not intended for self-driving by the user, but is controlled by an accompanying person.

A wheelchair for the disabled is used for:

• moving a patient within a room;

• transporting to the bathroom or toilet;

• moving in medical institutions between wards and offices;

• daily care for the elderly;

• reducing the risk of falls and injuries.

That is why the decision to buy a wheelchair often becomes necessary already in the early stages of rehabilitation or during long-term care. 

What do wheelchairs look like

Modern models have a well-thought-out design that combines strength and comfort. The main elements of this medical vehicle are a steel or aluminum frame, a soft seat made of wear-resistant materials, a backrest with lumbar support, armrests (often folding), adjustable or removable footrests, swivel wheels with locks.

Indeed, buying a wheelchair is not the same as buying a wheelchair, because they differ in functionality, appearance, price, etc. A wheelchair with a toilet is especially popular — universal model equipped with a removable sanitary vessel. This solution greatly simplifies the care of people who cannot reach the bathroom on their own or have limited control of their movements.

When to buy a wheelchair with a toilet

It is recommended to buy a wheelchair with a toilet in cases where:

• the person is in the postoperative period;

• there is a violation of the musculoskeletal system;

• there are neurological diseases;

• the patient is bedridden for part of the day;

• care is provided by one person.

Such wheelchairs can be used both as a mobile toilet and as a convenient means of transportation around the house or ward.

Most often, wheelchairs are used for the following diseases and conditions:

• strokes and traumatic brain injuries;

• femoral neck fractures;

• spinal diseases;

• cerebral palsy;

• multiple sclerosis;

• severe arthritis and arthrosis;

• age-related coordination disorders;

• general muscle weakness.

In all these cases, a wheelchair for the disabled helps to maintain mobility and a decent quality of life, which is very important for every person.

How to choose the right wheelchair

Before buying a wheelchair, it is important to pay attention to some important parameters. First, it should be the maximum load of the product, it should correspond to the weight of the user. This is especially important if you are ordering a wheelchair for an overweight person. Also pay attention to the dimensions and width of the seat so that the person can sit comfortably in this vehicle.

The type of wheels should be suitable for the location of use, depending on whether it is a home or a medical facility. If necessary, the wheelchair can have sanitary equipment. In addition, the vehicle may have a complex design for convenient storage and a reliable brake system.

High-quality wheelchairs have an ergonomic fit and do not create additional stress on the spine.

How to use a wheelchair safely

For safe operation, you must:

• fix the brakes when boarding and disembarking;

• use seat belts;

• do notexceed the permissible load;

• regularly clean the seat and wheels;

• check the condition of the fasteners.

If a wheelchair with a toilet is used, it is important to follow hygiene standards and clean the sanitary container in a timely manner.

Using a wheelchair at home and in medical institutions

A wheelchair — a universal product that can be used to transport people with disabilities or various diseases in apartments and private homes, in hospitals and clinics, in rehabilitation centers, in geriatric institutions.

Compact dimensions allow easy maneuvering in corridors and doorways, which makes wheelchairs a practical solution for any conditions

A wheelchair is an important tool for care, rehabilitation and safe movement. A properly selected model helps to maintain the comfort, autonomy and dignity of a person with limited mobility. If you are planning to buy a wheelchair, focus on the needs of the user, operating conditions and quality of construction. And a wheelchair with a toilet will be a practical solution for both home and medical institution.