Mobility Smart has an excellent reputation for providing wheelchair users with a wide range of wheelchairs and backing this up with expertise and advice, so it's easier to make the right choice when buying a wheelchair.
Our wheelchair range is divided into the main categories below: attendant wheelchairs, as the name suggests, are designed for another person to assist in propelling the wheelchair, whereas self-propelled wheelchairs rely on the wheelchair user to travel under their own physical effort.
Wheelchairs
- Economy Wheelchair Bag Item Code: MS14460Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
This Economy Wheelchair Bag represents exceptional value for money and is an extremely sturdy and useful aid for any wheelchair user.
Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £9.23 with VAT ReliefWas: £10.49Save: £1.26£11.08inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Wheelchair Cosy Item Code: MS11894Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
Specially designed to keep wheelchair users dry and warm at all times, this Wheelchair Cosy is both waterproof and fully, fleece lined.
Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £25.95 with VAT ReliefWas: £39.95Save: £14.00£31.14inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Waterproof Wheelchair Mac Item Code: MS15990Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
This Waterproof Wheelchair Mac is a protective cover designed to keep the user of a wheelchair warm and dry in inclement weather.
Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £17.95 with VAT ReliefWas: £22.95Save: £5.00£21.54inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Smoking Apron Item Code: MS18506Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.This Smoking Apron is a fully fire retardant apron for use in a room set aside for smoker or in a smoking area.Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £31.95 with VAT ReliefWas: £44.79Save: £12.84£38.34inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Foldalite Trekker Folding Electric Wheelchair Item Code: PG30928FREE ShippingManufactured with user comfort in mind, the Foldalite Trekker Folding Electric Wheelchair comes fully equipped with a highly unique contoured cushion, adjustable backrest, footrests and leg guards. For added practicality, the Trekker comes fitted with a useful kickstand for upright storage, this can extremely helpful when space is at a premium.Was:From Special Price £2,124.95 with VAT Relief£2,549.94inc VAT£3,099.95Save:£975.00
- Lined Wheelchair Poncho Item Code: MS10818Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
Made from 100% waterproof materials, this Lined Wheelchair Poncho is fully lined and designed to keep a user warm and dry at all times whilst also protecting a wheelchair from the elements.
Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £24.95 with VAT ReliefWas: £31.19Save: £6.24£29.94inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Wheelchair Cosy - Long Item Code: MS15986Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
This long Wheelchair Cosy is fleece lined and fully waterproof to ensure the user is kept feeling warm and dry at all times.
Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £24.95 with VAT ReliefWas: £30.89Save: £5.94£29.94inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Balmoral Fleece Item Code: PG13836Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £39.95 with VAT Relief£47.94inc VAT£45.09Save:£5.14
- Superhead Wheelchair Headrest Item Code: PG11982FREE ShippingWant it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
The Superhead Wheelchair Headrest is a highly versatile, cost-effective accessory that is compatible with most manual and powered wheelchairs.
Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £144.70 with VAT Relief£173.64inc VAT£155.59Save:£10.89 - Bariatric Steel Wheelchair Item Code: MS33868FREE ShippingWant it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
This Bariatric Steel Wheelchair is an exceptionally high-quality and cost-effective Wheelchair that is perfect for larger users with limited mobility. The heavy-duty wheelchair features a dual, reinforced steel cross brace that offers maximum levels of stability and support.
Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £296.10 with VAT ReliefWas: £318.39Save: £22.29£355.32inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Foldalite Trekker Folding Electric Wheelchair - Travel Bag Item Code: MS33636FREE ShippingWant it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
This incredibly durable yet lightweight Travel Bag slips over the Foldalite Trekker Folding Electric Wheelchair to provide ultimate protection for the Wheelchair when in transit.
Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £79.95 with VAT ReliefWas: £90.29Save: £10.34£95.94inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Travel Case for Motion Foldalite or Foldalite Pro Folding Electric Wheelchair Item Code: MS33635FREE Shipping
Featuring a durable construction, similar to a traditional suitcase, this Travel Case is designed to allow a user to safely take their Foldalite or Foldalite Pro when travelling away from home.
Special Price £379.95 with VAT ReliefWas: £499.95Save: £120.00£455.94inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Alerta Bubble Mattress Overlay Item Code: MS33499FREE ShippingWant it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.This Alerta Bubble Mattress Overlay alternating pressure system has been carefully designed for the effective prevention and treatment of users who are at low risk of developing pressure sores.Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £50.93 with VAT ReliefWas: £56.59Save: £5.66£61.12inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Waterproof Wheelchair Poncho Item Code: MS33509Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.Ideal for keeping dry in the rain, this Waterproof Wheelchair Poncho is ideal for active wheelchair users that like to get out and about no matter the weather.Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £23.30 with VAT ReliefWas: £25.89Save: £2.59£27.96inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Harley Visco-Gel Wheelchair Cushion Item Code: PG26082FREE ShippingWant it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
Designed to provide extra support and protection, this range of Harley Visco-Gel Wheelchair Cushions are the ultimate pressure-relieving cushions for wheelchair users or anyone sat down for prolonged periods of time.
Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £189.95 with VAT Relief£227.94inc VAT£239.29Save:£49.34 - Harley Designer Economy V Cushion Item Code: PG29741Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
From the award-winning Harley brand, the Harley Designer Economy V Cushion is fitted with a waterproof black nylon fabric cover and is available in a range of sizes.
- TGA StrongBack Self Propelled Wheelchair Item Code: PG29223FREE ShippingWant it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.Delivering outstanding comfort and manoeuvrability, the TGA Strongback Self Propelled Wheelchair is both lightweight and durable.Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £443.97 with VAT Relief£532.76inc VAT£477.39Save:£33.42
- TGA StrongBack Attendant Wheelchair Item Code: PG28205FREE ShippingWant it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
The TGA Strongback Attendant Propelled Wheelchair has been carefully designed to provide the user with everyday postural support. The TGA Strongback thanks to its extremely unique and award-winning Swiss design that boasts a curved backrest and improved seat angle, helps to prevent slipping and slouching forward
Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £374.95 with VAT Relief£449.94inc VAT£428.39Save:£53.44 - Transit Steel Wheelchair Item Code: PG27078FREE ShippingWant it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
Available in a variety of colours designed to meet the style of the user, this Steel Transit Wheelchair is the ideal companion for the occasional Wheelchair user as it is extremely lightweight and compact.
Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £114.95 with VAT Relief£137.94inc VAT£159.95Save:£45.00 - Lightweight Aluminium Wheelchair Item Code: PG27083FREE ShippingWant it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.This Lightweight Wheelchair is a highly cost-effective Travel Wheelchair that has been manufactured with an aluminium frame to provide exceptional levels of durability and strength.Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £121.95 with VAT Relief£146.34inc VAT£185.39Save:£63.44
- Deluxe Coloured Wheelchair Bag Item Code: PG18476Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.Available in a choice of different colours, the Deluxe Coloured Wheelchair Bag is a useful accessory for any active, independent wheelchair user.Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £18.26 with VAT Relief£21.91inc VAT£20.29Save:£2.03
- Whirl Attendant Propelled Wheelchair Item Code: PG17349FREE ShippingWant it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
The Whirl Attendant Propelled Wheelchair boasts a truly unique design with a narrow and compact frame making it the perfect choice for use in small areas.
Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £169.95 with VAT Relief£203.94inc VAT£199.95Save:£30.00 - Mobility Smart Vinyl Cover Wheelchair Cushion Item Code: PG19102Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
The Mobility Smart Vinyl Cover Wheelchair Cushion represents real value for money and has been carefully designed to increase the comfort of wheelchair seats.
Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £11.87 with VAT Relief£14.24inc VAT£13.49Save:£1.62 - Cosy Toes Wheelchair Cosy - XL Item Code: MS11357FREE ShippingWant it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.Designed to keep the user warm and cosy whilst out and about, the Cosy Toes Wheelchair Cosy will deliver a draught-free and rainproof environment.Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £48.77 with VAT ReliefWas: £54.19Save: £5.42£58.52inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Sleeved Fleece Blanket - Pink Item Code: MS33163Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
This Sleeved Fleece Blanket features built-in, oversized sleeves that provide freedom of movement, allowing the user to comfortably read, snack or use a laptop while staying warm and cosy.
Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £16.37 with VAT ReliefWas: £18.19Save: £1.82£19.64inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Attendant Propelled Wheelchair Item Code: MS33110FREE ShippingWant it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.This Attendant Propelled Wheelchair boasts a powder-coated, aluminium frame to ensure ultimate durability and strength whilst also enabling it to remain lightweight.Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £229.95 with VAT ReliefWas: £299.95Save: £70.00£275.94inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Drive Medical Oxygen Bottle Holder Item Code: MS32966FREE ShippingWant it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
The handy Oxygen Bottle Holder from Drive Medical has been designed to easily attach to most Drive Mobility Scooters and Wheelchairs.
Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £54.96 with VAT ReliefWas: £72.99Save: £18.03£65.95inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Duo Deluxe Rollator and Transit Chair Item Code: PG28354FREE ShippingWant it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.The Duo Deluxe 2-in-1 Rollator and Transit Wheelchair is a highly versatile, high-quality mobility aid that offers the functionality of both a rollator and wheelchair.Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £149.95 with VAT Relief£179.94inc VAT£171.59Save:£21.64
- Roma Reno Elite Seat Riser Power Chair Item Code: PG32974FREE ShippingThe Roma Reno Seat Riser Powerchair boasts all the same luxury features as the Reno Elite but with the added functionality of a seat riser, that helps users get to those hard to reach places thus promoting independence.Was:From Special Price £1,594.95 with VAT Relief£1,913.94inc VAT£2,495.95Save:£901.00
- Economy Self-Propelled Transit Chair - Replacement Footrests Item Code: MS32943Special Price £23.30 with VAT ReliefWas: £25.89Save: £2.59£27.96inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Economy Self-Propelled Steel Wheelchair Item Code: MS32940FREE ShippingWant it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.This Economy Self-Propelled Steel Wheelchair has been carefully designed to provide the user with total independence and peace of mind.Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £148.75 with VAT ReliefWas: £159.95Save: £11.20£178.50inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Mallard Wheelchair Crutch Bag Item Code: MS22615Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.This highly versatile Mallard Wheelchair Crutch Bag is suitable for use on both wheelchairs and mobility scooters and helps to provide additional storage.Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £11.95 with VAT ReliefWas: £14.59Save: £2.64£14.34inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Economy Gel Seat Cushion Item Code: MS32928Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.The Gel Seat Cushion is an incredibly versatile cushion that can be used in the car, at home or in a wheelchair providing outstanding levels of comfort.Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £17.09 with VAT ReliefWas: £18.99Save: £1.90£20.51inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Vinyl Wheelchair Cushion Item Code: MS32638Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.Ideal for users that spend long periods sitting down, this durable Vinyl Wheelchair Cushion is for frequent everyday use.Express Delivery AvailableSpecial Price £13.94 with VAT ReliefWas: £15.49Save: £1.55£16.73inc VATHurry!
Offer ends 26-04-2024 - Easy Fit Wheelchair Gloves Item Code: PG13251Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
The Global Leather Easy Fit Wheelchair Gloves are made from extremely soft and stretchy neoprene and feature a palm grip that offers a snug fit whilst also maximising flexibility.
Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £8.88 with VAT Relief£10.66inc VAT£10.09Save:£1.21 - Wheelchair Wraps Item Code: PG27296Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
These Wheelchair Wraps from Global Leather represent real value for money and have been carefully designed to provide maximum protection and comfort to the users palms.
Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £9.67 with VAT Relief£11.60inc VAT£10.99Save:£1.32 - Lite Gel Palm Wheelchair Gloves Item Code: PG13272Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
Available in 8 sizes, ranging from XS to XXXXL these Global Leather Lite Wheelchair Gloves represent real value for money and are suitable for all wheelchair users.
Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £13.76 with VAT Relief£16.51inc VAT£15.29Save:£1.53 - SureGrip Full Finger Wheelchair Gloves Item Code: PG14251Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.
The SureGrip Full Finger Wheelchair Gloves are the ideal gloves for use during cold, winter months. The full finger design on these Wheelchair Gloves helps to keep hands warm even on cold weather.
Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £15.56 with VAT Relief£18.67inc VAT£17.29Save:£1.73 - SureGrip Fingerless Wheelchair Gloves Item Code: PG13292Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.These SureGrip Fingerless Wheelchair Gloves are perfect for use during summer months as they have been designed to allow the hands to breathe.Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £16.46 with VAT Relief£19.75inc VAT£18.29Save:£1.83
- Fingerless Wheelchair Gloves Item Code: PG13263Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.The Global Leather Classic Fingerless Wheelchair Gloves are made from the finest leather and known as being one of the best selling Wheelchair Gloves on the market.Express Delivery AvailableWas:From Special Price £16.01 with VAT Relief£19.21inc VAT£17.79Save:£1.78
Take a look through our vast range of Wheelchairs
We can meet a very broad variety of requirements thanks to the excellent quality and build of all of our wheelchairs and the size of our selection. You will find it simple to compare the features and advantages of all our wheelchair models if you are thinking about buying one. We have selected wheelchairs that are appropriate for a variety of purposes, and we can offer guidance if you require additional confirmation of your unique needs.
Remember that with Mobility Smart wheelchairs, you are buying a quality product that comes from a highly reputable retailer, as well as that we offer complete peace of mind aftercare and support.
Can I get a free wheelchair on the NHS?
Yes, you can potentially get a free wheelchair on the NHS!
Here's how it works:
Eligibility:
The NHS provides wheelchairs free of charge to those who meet their criteria. This generally means you need a wheelchair for either:
- Full-time use: Your mobility is significantly impacted, and you require a wheelchair for most or all daily activities.
- Frequent use: Although you may not need it constantly, your mobility limitations necessitate a wheelchair for regular, essential activities.
Process:
- Referral: You'll need a referral from a healthcare professional like your GP, physiotherapist, or hospital staff.
- Assessment: Your local wheelchair service will assess your needs and determine if you're eligible for an NHS wheelchair.
- Type of wheelchair: They'll also recommend the most suitable type of wheelchair for your specific needs. Options range from manual wheelchairs to powered chairs.
- Provision: If you qualify, the NHS will provide the wheelchair free of charge, although it technically remains their property. You'll be responsible for its upkeep and safety, with regular checks and repairs handled by the wheelchair service.
Additional options:
- Personal wheelchair budget: If you want more options or specific features not covered by the basic NHS provision, you might be eligible for a personal wheelchair budget. This allows you to contribute additional funds towards your ideal wheelchair.
- Short-term borrowing: For temporary needs, you can sometimes borrow an NHS wheelchair for a short period, like after surgery. Some charities and shopping centres also offer wheelchair borrowing schemes.
Remember:
- The NHS prioritises meeting essential needs, so advanced features or specific preferences might require additional contributions.
- The process and criteria can vary slightly depending on your location within the UK, so it's best to check with your local wheelchair service for specific details.
How much does a decent wheelchair cost?
Defining "decent" in wheelchairs depends on individual needs and desired features, but fear not; there's a range to suit most budgets! Here's a breakdown.
Manual Wheelchairs:
- Basic Standard: Starting at around £100, these are no-frills chairs for occasional use. Think sturdy, but heavy-duty.
- Comfort and Lightweight: Around £300–£800, these offer improved padding, manoeuvrability, and foldability for everyday use.
- Active Lightweight: For frequent mobility aid users, these light and nimble chairs with adjustable features cost around £800–£1,500.
- Ultra-Lightweight: Top-of-the-line for athletes or frequent travellers, these sleek and portable chairs range from £1,500-£4,000+.
Electric Wheelchairs:
- Basic Compact: Starting at around £2,000, these portable chairs are suitable for indoor use or short trips.
- Mid-Range: Between £3,000 and £5,000, these offer more power, range, and outdoor capability.
- Advanced: Packing features like suspension and joystick control, these premium chairs start at £5,000 and can reach £10,000+.
Remember: Price isn't everything! Consider your needs, usage frequency, desired features, and budget when choosing. We offer expert advice and a wide range of options to find the perfect "decent" match for you.
What type of wheelchair is best for the elderly?
Choosing the best wheelchair for an elderly person depends on several factors, including their mobility level, lifestyle, and individual needs. Here's a breakdown of the main types:
Manual Wheelchairs:
- Standard Manual: These sturdy chairs are good for occasional use or people with good upper body strength. They're typically heavier and less manoeuvrable.
- Lightweight Manual: Ideal for everyday use, these chairs are lighter and easier to push or propel oneself. They come in various comfort and feature options.
- Ultra-Lightweight: Perfect for active seniors or frequent travellers, these chairs are super light and portable. They might not be suitable for long periods of sitting.
Electric Wheelchairs:
- Compact Power Chairs: Great for indoor use or short trips, these portable chairs are manoeuvrable and easy to store.
- Mid-Range Power Chairs: Offering more power, range, and outdoor capability, these chairs are suitable for daily outings and longer distances.
- Heavy-Duty Power Chairs: Designed for larger individuals, these sturdy chairs provide extra support and weight capacity.
Additional Considerations:
- Tilt-in-Space Wheelchairs: These chairs tilt backwards slightly, reducing pressure on the back and improving comfort for long sitting periods.
- Reclining Wheelchairs: Reclining backrests offer added comfort and pressure relief, especially for those with limited mobility.
- Accessories: Consider additional features like leg rests, headrests, cup holders, and personalised cushions for optimal comfort and support.
How long should an elderly person sit in a wheelchair?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer to how long an elderly person should sit in a wheelchair, as it depends on several factors, like:
- Overall health and mobility: Those with strong upper body strength and good balance might tolerate longer sitting periods than someone with frailty or muscle weakness.
- Underlying medical conditions: Certain conditions, like pressure sores, pain, or circulatory issues, might necessitate more frequent breaks from sitting.
- Wheelchair type and comfort: A well-cushioned, pressure-relieving wheelchair with proper positioning can extend sitting time compared to a basic model.
- Activity level and lifestyle: An active senior who regularly transfers out of the wheelchair for walks or other activities will naturally sit for shorter periods than someone primarily wheelchair-bound.
General Guidelines:
NHS Scotland recommends no more than two hours of continuous sitting in a wheelchair. This applies to most healthy individuals, and exceeding this time can increase pressure, soreness, and stiffness.
Ideally, aim for frequent breaks every 30–60 minutes. Encourage standing up, transferring to a chair, or even just shifting weight and performing simple leg exercises while seated.
Listen to the individual's body. Pay attention to signs of discomfort like fidgeting, pain, or fatigue, and encourage them to take a break whenever needed.
Additional Tips:
- Invest in a pressure-relieving wheelchair cushion. This can significantly improve comfort and reduce pressure-sore risk.
- Encourage regular weight shifts and leg movements while seated. This helps maintain circulation and prevent stiffness.
- Vary the environment whenever possible. Take the person outside for fresh air, change their position within the house, or engage them in activities that don't require sitting.
- Seek professional advice. If you're concerned about their sitting tolerance or pressure sore risk, consult a healthcare professional or occupational therapist for personalised recommendations.
What are the side effects of sitting in a wheelchair?
While wheelchairs improve mobility and independence for many users, prolonged sitting can lead to various side effects. Here's a breakdown of the most common ones:
Physical Issues:
- Pressure sores: Sitting for extended periods puts constant pressure on specific points, particularly the buttocks, back, and heels. This can reduce blood flow and damage skin tissue, leading to painful pressure sores.
- Muscle weakness and atrophy: Lack of movement in the legs weakens muscles over time, impacting balance, mobility, and daily activities.
- Stiffness and pain: Prolonged sitting can lead to joint stiffness and pain in the back, hips, and knees.
- Poor circulation: Reduced leg movement can lead to blood pooling in the legs, increasing the risk of blood clots.
- Bone density loss: Inactivity can weaken bones, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
Other Potential Side Effects:
- Digestive issues: Sitting for long periods can slow digestion and lead to constipation.
- Respiratory problems: Poor posture and shallow breathing can occur during prolonged sitting, increasing the risk of respiratory issues like pneumonia.
- Mental health: Social isolation and a lack of physical activity can negatively impact mental well-being, potentially leading to anxiety or depression.
Minimising Side Effects:
- Regular breaks: Aim for short breaks every 30–60 minutes, standing up, shifting weight, or performing leg exercises while seated.
- Pressure-relieving cushions: Invest in a cushion specifically designed to reduce pressure on vulnerable areas.
- Posture adjustments: Maintain good posture while sitting, with your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and feet flat on the floor.
- Regular exercise: Incorporate weight-bearing exercises and activities into your daily routine to strengthen muscles and bones.
- Staying active: Engage in activities that involve standing, walking, or transferring out of the wheelchair whenever possible.
- Seek professional advice: Consult a healthcare professional or occupational therapist for personalised recommendations based on your individual needs and health conditions.
Remember, even small changes to your sitting habits can significantly reduce side effects and improve overall well-being for wheelchair users.
When should I consider getting a wheelchair?
Deciding when to get a wheelchair is a personal and important choice. It's not just about physical limitations but also about finding the right tools to maintain your independence and quality of life. Here are some signs and situations that might indicate it's time to consider a wheelchair:
Physical Limitations:
- Difficulty walking: If walking short distances becomes tiring or painful, causing falls or balance issues, a wheelchair can offer support and safety.
- Reduced stamina: If standing or walking for extended periods leaves you exhausted, a wheelchair can help conserve energy and allow you to participate in activities that would otherwise be difficult.
- Pain: Chronic pain in your legs, back, or joints can make walking unbearable. A wheelchair can provide pain relief and enable you to move around freely.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, like arthritis, muscle weakness, or neurological disorders, can significantly impact mobility, making a wheelchair a necessary aid.
Lifestyle and Independence:
- Limited participation in activities: If your mobility limitations prevent you from enjoying activities you used to love, a wheelchair can open up new possibilities and restore your independence.
- Social isolation: Difficulty getting around can lead to social isolation. A wheelchair can help you stay connected with friends and family and participate in social activities.
- Falls and safety concerns: If you're worried about falling or have had falls in the past, a wheelchair can provide stability and reduce the risk of injury.
- Mental well-being: Feeling restricted by your mobility can affect your mental health. A wheelchair can offer a sense of freedom and control, improving your overall well-being.
Ultimately, the decision about when to get a wheelchair is up to you. By considering your physical limitations, lifestyle needs, and personal preferences, you can choose the right time and the right wheelchair to improve your independence and quality of life.
How do you get fitted for a wheelchair?
Getting fitted for a wheelchair in the UK involves navigating your options and the assessment process. Here's a simplified breakdown:
- Know your options:
- NHS Wheelchair Service: Available if you meet their criteria. This involves a referral from a healthcare professional, like your GP or physiotherapist. They'll assess your needs and refer you if you're eligible.
- Private options: If you don't qualify for the NHS or want more choice, you can visit private wheelchair assessment clinics or consult a specialist directly.
- Assessment:
NHS Wheelchair Service: You'll meet their assessors at a dedicated clinic or community setting.
Private clinics: Expect similar setups with qualified professionals. The assessment covers:
- Medical history and mobility challenges
- Lifestyle needs and daily activities
- Detailed physical measurements like seat depth, backrest height, and leg length
- Strength, balance, and propelling ability (if applicable)
- Trying out wheelchairs:
You'll get to try various types based on your needs, including manual, powered, and specialised options. Pay attention to:
- Comfort and support
- Manoeuvrability and ease of use
- Suitability for your environment and activities
- NHS provision might have limitations compared to private options
- Customisation and adjustments:
The specialists will adjust your chosen chair to your exact measurements and preferences. This might involve fine-tuning:
- Seat depth and angle
- Backrest height and angle
- Footrests and legrests
- Armrests and headrests
- Wheel size and camber
Ensuring proper posture and positioning for optimal comfort and safety
- Training and aftercare:
You'll receive instructions on using and maintaining your wheelchair safely. This might include:
- Transferring techniques
- Braking and manoeuvring tips
- Battery care for powered chairs
- Routine maintenance and troubleshooting
Some services might offer follow-up appointments to ensure you're comfortable and using the chair correctly.
Additional UK-specific things to keep in mind:
- NHS eligibility: Not everyone qualifies for an NHS wheelchair. Factors like the frequency of need and the severity of mobility limitations determine eligibility.
- Personal Wheelchair Budget: If you don't qualify for an NHS wheelchair or wish for additional features, the NHS might offer a Personal Wheelchair Budget to contribute towards your desired chair.
- Private options: Many private clinics and suppliers offer a wider range of wheelchairs and customisation options, but they come at a cost.
- Local considerations: Each UK region might have slightly different referral pathways and assessment procedures. Always check with your healthcare professional or local wheelchair service for specific details.