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

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  1. Kuschall Champion 2.0 Aluminium Wheelchair
    Kuschall Champion 2.0 Aluminium Wheelchair Item Code: SW075
    FREE Shipping

    This incredibly lightweight and sleek Kuschall Champion 2.0 Aluminium Wheelchair provides the strength, durability and practicality for an active lifestyle.

    Special Price £2,495.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £2,683.00
    Save: £188.00
    £2,994.00
    inc VAT
  2. Kuschall K-Series 2.0 Aluminium Wheelchair
    Kuschall K-Series 2.0 Aluminium Wheelchair Item Code: SW074
    FREE Shipping

    The Kuschall K-Series 2.0 Aluminium Wheelchair offers maximum rigidity and reduced weight thanks to its minimalistic design that takes advantage of Kuschall’s hydroformed front frame.

    Special Price £2,395.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £2,540.00
    Save: £145.00
    £2,874.00
    inc VAT
  3. XLT Swing Wheelchair
    XLT Swing Wheelchair Item Code: SW073
    FREE Shipping

    The XLT Swing Wheelchair is an extremely rigid and active Wheelchair that is perfect for everyday, indoor and outdoor use. 

    £1,588.00 with VAT Relief
    £1,905.60
    inc VAT
  4. XLT Wheelchair
    XLT Wheelchair Item Code: SW072
    FREE Shipping

    The XLT Wheelchair from Invacare is manufactured, fitted and made to measure the specific needs of each user to help improve, retain and regain independence and mobility.

    £1,495.00 with VAT Relief
    £1,794.00
    inc VAT
  5. Kuschall KSL Wheelchair
    Kuschall KSL Wheelchair Item Code: SW071
    FREE Shipping

    The Kuschall Super Light (KSL) Wheelchair features a sleek, elegant and high-quality design and is tailored to a users specific measurements for ultimate comfort and support. 

    Special Price £2,895.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £3,005.00
    Save: £110.00
    £3,474.00
    inc VAT
  6. Kuschall Compact 2.0 Swing Away Wheelchair
    Kuschall Compact 2.0 Swing Away Wheelchair Item Code: SW070
    FREE Shipping

    This Invacare Kuschall Compact 2.0 Swing Away Wheelchair has been specially designed for active wheelchair users that require additional support and configurability.

    Special Price £1,995.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £2,025.00
    Save: £30.00
    £2,394.00
    inc VAT
  7. Kuschall Compact 2.0 FF Wheelchair
    Kuschall Compact 2.0 FF Wheelchair Item Code: SW069
    FREE Shipping

    The Kuschall Compact 2.0 Fixed Front Wheelchair is an extremely compact and lightweight wheelchair that is designed to promote independence and mobility for those that live an active lifestyle. 

    Special Price £1,995.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £2,025.00
    Save: £30.00
    £2,394.00
    inc VAT
  8. Invacare Aviva RX40 Ultra Power Chair
    Invacare Aviva RX40 Ultra Power Chair Item Code: SW068
    FREE Shipping

    The Invacare Aviva RX40 Ultra Power Chair is fitted with the Aviva RX base to provide ultimate ride comfort when used both indoors and outdoors. 

    Special Price £8,995.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £9,095.00
    Save: £100.00
    £10,794.00
    inc VAT
  9. Invacare Aviva RX40 HD Power Chair
    Invacare Aviva RX40 HD Power Chair Item Code: SW066
    FREE Shipping

    This Invacare Aviva RX40 HD Power Chair features an incredibly compact base and small turning circle making it highly versatile and easy to manoeuvre both indoors and outdoors.

    Special Price £6,195.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £6,324.00
    Save: £129.00
    £7,434.00
    inc VAT
  10. Invacare Aviva RX40 Power Chair
    Invacare Aviva RX40 Power Chair Item Code: SW065
    FREE Shipping

    This Invacare Aviva RX40 Power Chair is a highly versatile chair that is perfect for use both indoors and outdoors.

    Special Price £4,495.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £4,521.00
    Save: £26.00
    £5,394.00
    inc VAT
  11. Invacare Aviva RX20 Modulite Powerchair
    Invacare Aviva RX20 Modulite Powerchair Item Code: SW064
    FREE Shipping

    The highly versatile Aviva RX20 Power Chair is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use and is the ideal solution for everyday mobility. 

    Special Price £5,295.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £5,321.00
    Save: £26.00
    £6,354.00
    inc VAT
  12. Invacare Aviva RX20 Power Chair
    Invacare Aviva RX20 Power Chair Item Code: SW063
    FREE Shipping

    The Aviva RX20 Power Chair from Invacare features a compact base and tight turning circle thus making it the perfect choice for everyday, indoor and outdoor mobility.

    Special Price £3,395.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £3,489.00
    Save: £94.00
    £4,074.00
    inc VAT
  13. Storm 4 Max Power Wheelchair
    Storm 4 Max Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW061
    FREE Shipping

    The Storm 4 Max Power Wheelchair is a bariatric Powered Wheelchair that has been created for the larger body-shaped user and their needs.

    Special Price £7,495.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £7,789.00
    Save: £294.00
    £8,994.00
    inc VAT
  14. Storm 4 X-Plore Power Wheelchair
    Storm 4 X-Plore Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW060
    FREE Shipping

    The Storm 4 X-Plore Power Wheelchair from Invacare is built to provide the user with exceptional levels of power and performance.

    Special Price £6,495.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £6,652.00
    Save: £157.00
    £7,794.00
    inc VAT
  15. Bora Power Wheelchair
    Bora Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW059
    FREE Shipping

    The Bora Power Wheelchair features a truly compact design making it perfect for use indoors whilst its revolutionary spring suspension helps to provide an incredibly smooth and comfortable ride when being used outdoors.

    £2,795.00 with VAT Relief
    £3,354.00
    inc VAT
  16. Storm 4 Power Wheelchair
    Storm 4 Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW053
    FREE Shipping

    The Storm 4 Power Wheelchair by Invacare boasts a modern, stylish design and is highly adaptable, functional, and configurable. 

    £6,491.00 with VAT Relief
    £7,789.20
    inc VAT
  17. Dietz Power SANGO Slimline Power Wheelchair
    Dietz Power SANGO Slimline Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW052
    FREE Shipping

    This Dietz Power Sango Slimline Power Wheelchair boasts an exceptionally compact chassis to allow for optimum manoeuvrability indoors combined with enhanced traction and comfort, perfect for use outdoors. 

    £5,650.00 with VAT Relief
    £6,780.00
    inc VAT
  18. Dietz Power SANGO Advanced Power Wheelchair
    Dietz Power SANGO Advanced Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW051
    FREE Shipping

    The Dietz Power Sango Advanced Power Wheelchair is constructed to provide a combination of exceptional traction and comfort perfect for use outdoors along with a compact chassis that ensures a tight turning circle and easy handling when being used indoors.

    £5,650.00 with VAT Relief
    £6,780.00
    inc VAT
  19. Dietz Power SANGO XXL Power Wheelchair
    Dietz Power SANGO XXL Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW050
    FREE Shipping

    The Dietz Power SANGO XXL Power Wheelchair offers a specially designed chassis with heavy-duty features as standard and reinforced wheels for those needing a robust and reliable powered wheelchair, capable of handling larger sizes and user weights of up to 250 kgs (40 stone).

    £9,795.00 with VAT Relief
    £11,754.00
    inc VAT
  20. Life Wheelchair
    Life Wheelchair Item Code: SW049
    FREE Shipping

    This extremely rigid and robust Life Wheelchair is part of the Quickie range and can be fine-tuned over time dependent on the users requirements.

    £1,295.00 with VAT Relief
    £1,554.00
    inc VAT
  21. Life Folding Wheelchair
    Life Folding Wheelchair Item Code: SW048
    FREE Shipping

    This Life Folding Wheelchair is from the well-known Quickie range of Wheelchairs and is the perfect companion for the first-time active wheelchair user.

    £1,295.00 with VAT Relief
    £1,554.00
    inc VAT
  22. Helix 2 Wheelchair
    Helix 2 Wheelchair Item Code: SW047
    FREE Shipping

    From the reputable Quickie Brand, the Helix 2 Wheelchair is a highly versatile and adaptive wheelchair that is the perfect choice for fleet use.

    £1,495.00 with VAT Relief
    £1,794.00
    inc VAT
  23. Neon 2 Wheelchair
    Neon 2 Wheelchair Item Code: SW046
    FREE Shipping

    From the well-renowned Quikie brand comes the Neon 2, a wheelchair that has been created with a unique cross brace that helps to provide the most rigid ride possible. 

    £1,495.00 with VAT Relief
    £1,794.00
    inc VAT
  24. Life Teen Wheelchair
    Life Teen Wheelchair Item Code: SW045
    FREE Shipping

    Part of the Quickie brand comes the Life Teen Wheelchair, a luxury wheelchair that has been created specially for teenage users.

    £1,795.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,154.00
    inc VAT
  25. Life Folding Teen Wheelchair
    Life Folding Teen Wheelchair Item Code: SW044
    FREE Shipping

    Designed especially for teenagers, this is the fantastic Life Folding Teen Wheelchair from the distinguished Quickie brand.

    £1,795.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,154.00
    inc VAT
  26. Argon 2 Wheelchair
    Argon 2 Wheelchair Item Code: SW043
    FREE Shipping

    From the renowned Quickie range the Argon 2 Wheelchair, has been carefully designed for individuals who continue to maintain an active lifestyle; this superb wheelchair really will become your perfect companion. 

    £1,795.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,154.00
    inc VAT
  27. Youngster 3 Childrens Wheelchair
    Youngster 3 Childrens Wheelchair Item Code: SW042
    FREE Shipping

    The Youngster 3 Childrens Wheelchair has been carefully constructed to increase confidence and independence, it also boasts an exceptionally lightweight from to allow for optimum manoeuvrability and control.

    £2,195.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,634.00
    inc VAT
  28. Simba Childrens Wheelchair
    Simba Childrens Wheelchair Item Code: SW041
    FREE Shipping

    The Simba Childrens Wheelchair is part of the wonderful Zippie brand and has been manufactured to provide high levels of independence for the user. 

    £2,495.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,994.00
    inc VAT
  29. Nitrum Wheelchair
    Nitrum Wheelchair Item Code: SW040
    FREE Shipping

    The Nitrum Wheelchair is a lightweight, aluminium wheelchair that has been designed to provide the user with major incremental improvements on Sunrise Medical's flagship wheelchair, the Quickie Helium. 

    £2,295.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,754.00
    inc VAT
  30. Xenon 2 Swing Away Wheelchair
    Xenon 2 Swing Away Wheelchair Item Code: SW039
    FREE Shipping

    With a redesigned axle stem and unique cross-brace, the ultra-light Xenon 2 Swing Away Wheelchair is simple to lift, fold and transport. It has a minimalistic style, usually seen on an active rigid wheelchair and features a reinforced Swing-away front frame that offers an easier transfer when getting in and out.

    £2,395.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,874.00
    inc VAT
  31. Xenon 2 Hybrid Wheelchair
    Xenon 2 Hybrid Wheelchair Item Code: SW038
    FREE Shipping

    The Xenon 2 Hybrid Wheelchair is an extremely lightweight yet strong folding wheelchair that offers maximum rigidity and is perfect for active wheelchair users.

    £2,495.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,994.00
    inc VAT
  32. Xenon 2 Wheelchair
    Xenon 2 Wheelchair Item Code: SW037
    FREE Shipping

    Weighing a mere 8.8 kgs, the Xenon 2 Wheelchair is one of the lightest folding wheelchairs on the market.

    £2,495.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,994.00
    inc VAT
  33. Helium Wheelchair
    Helium Wheelchair Item Code: SW036
    FREE Shipping

    This Helium Wheelchair is an ultra-lightweight and innovative Wheelchair that is part of the extremely popular Quickie Rage.

    £2,595.00 with VAT Relief
    £3,114.00
    inc VAT
  34. Hula Power Wheelchair
    Hula Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW035
    FREE Shipping

    The Hula Power Wheelchair is manufactured to combine superior indoor manoeuvrability with unwavering outdoor performance to ensure maximum versatility and optimum user comfort.

    £2,995.00 with VAT Relief
    £3,594.00
    inc VAT
  35. Helium Pro Wheelchair
    Helium Pro Wheelchair Item Code: SW034
    FREE Shipping

    The Helium Pro Wheelchair is an exceptionally durable and lightweight wheelchair that has been designed for the experienced active user.

    £2,995.00 with VAT Relief
    £3,594.00
    inc VAT
  36. Krypton Wheelchair
    Krypton Wheelchair Item Code: SW033
    FREE Shipping

    The elegant Krypton Wheelchair is part of the renowned QUICKIE range of Wheelchairs and has been carefully constructed for active users. 

    £3,495.00 with VAT Relief
    £4,194.00
    inc VAT
  37. Krypton F Wheelchair
    Krypton F Wheelchair Item Code: SW032
    FREE Shipping

    This Krypton F Wheelchair is a folding version of the standard Krypton and is from the well-renowned Quickie range of Wheelchairs.

    £3,495.00 with VAT Relief
    £4,194.00
    inc VAT
  38. BREEZY Ibis Powerdrive Tilt In Space Wheelchair
    BREEZY Ibis Powerdrive Tilt In Space Wheelchair Item Code: SW031
    FREE Shipping

    This Breezy Ibis Powerdrive Tilt-In-Space Wheelchair boasts all the magnificent features of the highly versatile Breezy Ibis, but with the added functionality of a Powerdrive attendant control system. 

    £4,250.00 with VAT Relief
    £5,100.00
    inc VAT
  39. Breezy Ibis Tilt In Space Wheelchair
    Breezy Ibis Tilt In Space Wheelchair Item Code: SW030
    FREE Shipping

    The Breezy Ibis Tilt In Space Wheelchair is the perfect choice for those users living with conditions such as Muscular Dystrophy, MND and Cerebral Palsy.

    £2,295.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,754.00
    inc VAT
  40. Tango Power Wheelchair
    Tango Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW028
    FREE Shipping

    The Tango Comfort Power Wheelchair from Quickie is a cost-effective, efficient and compact wheelchair that has been designed for both indoor and outdoor use.

    £4,549.00 with VAT Relief
    £5,458.80
    inc VAT
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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:

  1. Referral: You'll need a referral from a healthcare professional like your GP, physiotherapist, or hospital staff.
  2. Assessment: Your local wheelchair service will assess your needs and determine if you're eligible for an NHS wheelchair.
  3. 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.
  4. 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:

  1. 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.
  1. 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)
  1. 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
  1. 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

  1. 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.