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
- Q300 R Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW154FREE Shipping
The Quickie Q300 R Power Wheelchair features a compact 550mm base to provide maximum manoeuvrability indoors and allow the user to easily navigate through tight spaces.
£5,780.00 with VAT Relief£6,936.00inc VAT - Q300 M Mini Teens Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW152FREE Shipping
The highly versatile Quickie Q300 M Mini Power Wheelchair is designed for teenage users and is an ultra-slim, powerful wheelchair that features adjustable seating to ensure a teen will not grow out of the chair, therefore, offering real value for money.
£6,250.00 with VAT Relief£7,500.00inc VAT - Progeo Noir 2.0 Wheelchair Item Code: SW140FREE Shipping
The Permobil Progeo Noir 2.0 Wheelchair has been designed to provide the user with a truly balanced ride thanks to its lightweight carbon construction and manoeuvrability that combine together to allow the user to preserve energy throughout the day.
£7,614.00 with VAT Relief£9,136.80inc VAT - Quantum Q1450 Power Chair Item Code: SW116FREE Shipping
The Quantum Q1450 Power Chair is a bariatric, front-wheel drive chair that boasts an impressive maximum user weight of up to 272 kgs (42 stone 9 lbs).
£7,995.00 with VAT Relief£9,594.00inc VAT - Triride T-Rocks Item Code: SW138FREE Shipping
The Triride T-Rocks is a wheelchair add-on that features a high torque motor to provide high levels of performance and power.
£5,995.00 with VAT Relief£7,194.00inc VAT - Triride MadMax Item Code: SW137FREE Shipping
This TriRide MadMax is a high-performance, high-power powered Wheelchair add-on that features a high torque motor that makes it the ideal choice for long-distance on and off-road trips.
£5,600.00 with VAT Relief£6,720.00inc VAT - Quantum Q6 Edge HD Power Chair Item Code: SW115FREE Shipping
The Quantum Q6 Edge HD Power Chair is Quantum's classic Bariatric Power Chair that has been designed for use by the most active users.
£5,250.00 with VAT Relief£6,300.00inc VAT - Quantum Edge 3 Power Chair Item Code: SW113FREE Shipping
This Quantum Edge 3 Powered Wheelchair is one of the most technologically advanced power chairs on the market.
£5,495.00 with VAT Relief£6,594.00inc VAT - Quantum Q6 Edge HD Power Chair - TB3 Seating Item Code: SW111FREE Shipping
The Quantum Q6 Edge HD Power Chair has been created to meet the needs of even the most active user and is Quantum's classic Bariatric Powered Wheelchair.
£5,995.00 with VAT Relief£7,194.00inc VAT - Quantum Q6 Edge Z Power Chair Item Code: SW107FREE Shipping
The Quantum Q6 Edge Z has powerful 4-pole motors for maximum torque and a mid-wheel design that delivers superb outdoor performance as well as excellent indoor manoeuvrability.
£6,750.00 with VAT Relief£8,100.00inc VAT - Permobil K300 PS Junior Power Chair Item Code: SW101FREE Shipping
To allow a child to remain independent and active, the Permobil K300 PS Junior Power Chair has the ability to easily adjust throughout a child's growth.
£6,119.00 with VAT Relief£7,342.80inc VAT - Permobil X850 Corpus 3G Item Code: SW100FREE Shipping
The Permobil X850 Corpus 3G is an extremely powerful wheelchair that has been purpose-built for the outdoors.
£9,995.00 with VAT Relief£11,994.00inc VAT - Permobil F5 Corpus Powerchair Item Code: SW099FREE Shipping
The Permobil F5 Corpus Powerchair is the ideal choice for the more active, outdoor Wheelchair user as it has been designed to provide high performance over long distances and varied terrains.
£11,183.00 with VAT Relief£13,419.60inc VAT - Permobil F3 Corpus Powerchair Item Code: SW098FREE Shipping
This Permobil F3 Corpus Powerchair has been designed to be incredibly agile to allow it to be manoeuvred through tight spaces thus making it the perfect choice for indoor use and occasional use on rough terrain beyond pavements or indoor floors.
£9,284.00 with VAT Relief£11,140.80inc VAT - Permobil M5 Corpus Powerchair Item Code: SW097FREE Shipping
The Permobil M5 Corpus Powerchair has been designed to provide high levels of comfort, this Powerchair features stronger motors, more speed, higher elevation, incredible traction and stability as well as better reach so that you can get optimal results in many different driving situations.
£8,335.00 with VAT Relief£10,002.00inc VAT - Permobil M3 Corpus Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW096FREE Shipping
The Permobil M3 Corpus Power Wheelchair is a high-quality Powered Wheelchair that has been designed to provide maximum levels of comfort and ride quality and features luxury suspension.
£5,895.00 with VAT Relief£7,074.00inc VAT - Alber E-Fix E36 Item Code: SW082FREE Shipping
The Alber E-Fix E36 is an extremely powerful, smart and compact unit that features a motor in the wheel hubs and can be equipped to the majority of manual wheelchairs.
£5,300.00 with VAT Relief£6,360.00inc VAT - Invacare Aviva RX40 Ultra Power Chair Item Code: SW068FREE 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 ReliefWas: £9,095.00Save: £100.00£10,794.00inc VAT - Invacare Aviva RX40 HD Power Chair Item Code: SW066FREE 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 ReliefWas: £6,324.00Save: £129.00£7,434.00inc VAT - Invacare Aviva RX20 Modulite Powerchair Item Code: SW064FREE 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 ReliefWas: £5,321.00Save: £26.00£6,354.00inc VAT - Storm 4 Max Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW061FREE 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 ReliefWas: £7,789.00Save: £294.00£8,994.00inc VAT - Storm 4 X-Plore Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW060FREE 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 ReliefWas: £6,652.00Save: £157.00£7,794.00inc VAT - Storm 4 Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW053FREE 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£7,789.20inc VAT - Dietz Power SANGO Slimline Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW052FREE 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£6,780.00inc VAT - Dietz Power SANGO Advanced Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW051FREE 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£6,780.00inc VAT - Dietz Power SANGO XXL Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW050FREE 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£11,754.00inc VAT - Salsa R2 Childrens Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW027FREE Shipping
The Salsa R2 Childrens Power Wheelchair has been carefully designed to provide ultimate outdoor performance thanks to its powerful and compact build and chunky wheels.
£5,450.00 with VAT Relief£6,540.00inc VAT - Tango Comfort Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW026FREE Shipping
The Tango Comfort Power Wheelchair is a highly cost-effective and flexible chair that boasts a sleek and compact design to deliver excellent performance and quality.
£5,795.00 with VAT Relief£6,954.00inc VAT - Salsa M2 Mini Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW025FREE Shipping
The Salsa M2 Mini Power Wheelchair is an exceptional mid-wheel drive, powered wheelchair and is the narrowest on the market.
£5,950.00 with VAT Relief£7,140.00inc VAT - Salsa M2 Childrens Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW024FREE Shipping
The Salsa M2 Childrens Power Wheelchair comes equipped with a fully adjustable seating system that is specifically designed for use by children.
£6,325.00 with VAT Relief£7,590.00inc VAT - Salsa M2 Mini Childrens Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW023FREE Shipping
The Salsa M2 Mini Childrens Power Wheelchair is the narrowest mid-wheel drive Powered Wheelchair on the market and has been designed to provide unprecedented indoor agility and unrivalled outdoor performance.
£6,250.00 with VAT Relief£7,500.00inc VAT - Salsa M2 Mini Teens Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW022FREE Shipping
The highly versatile Salsa M2 Mini Teens Power Wheelchair is been specially designed for teenagers and combines maximum outdoor performance with excellent indoor manoeuvrability.
£5,950.00 with VAT Relief£7,140.00inc VAT - Salsa M2 Teens Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW021FREE Shipping
Designed for teenagers, this Salsa M2 Teens Powered Wheelchair combines indoor navigation with superior outdoor performance.
£5,995.00 with VAT Relief£7,194.00inc VAT - Magic Mobility Magic 360 Off-Road Powered Wheelchair Item Code: SW020FREE Shipping
The Magic 360 Off-Road Powered Wheelchair from Magic Mobility is the first electric powerchair in the world that is suitable for everyday use that has true off-road capability.
£11,500.00 with VAT Relief£13,800.00inc VAT - Q700 Up M Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW019FREE Shipping
The intelligent and high-performance Q700 Up M Power Wheelchair provides outstanding support whilst allowing you superior freedom whether it be driving at home, off-road, around shops, standing or lying flat.
£22,995.00 with VAT Relief£27,594.00inc VAT - Q700 R Sedeo Ergo Power Chair Item Code: SW018FREE Shipping
This high-performance Q700 R Sedeo Ergo Power Chair is a rear-wheel drive chair that has been designed to offer maximum control and superior kerb-climbing.
£13,940.00 with VAT Relief£16,728.00inc VAT - Q700 M Sedeo Ergo Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW016FREE Shipping
This mid-wheel drive Q700 M Sedeo Ergo Power Wheelchair has been created to provide the user with the ultimate driving experience.
£13,940.00 with VAT Relief£16,728.00inc VAT - Q700 M Sedeo Pro Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW015FREE Shipping
This Q700 M Sedeo Pro Power Wheelchair features market-leading manoeuvrability due to its incredibly tight turning circle, intuitive controls, and ability to move in tight, compact spaces.
£6,500.00 with VAT Relief£7,800.00inc VAT - Q700 R Sedeo Pro Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW014FREE Shipping
The Q700 R Sedeo Pro Power Wheelchair is easy and intuitive to drive thanks to its drive wheel position and superior suspension system, which makes its outdoor performance comfortable and smooth.
£7,750.00 with VAT Relief£9,300.00inc VAT - Q700 F Sedeo Pro Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW013FREE Shipping
This Q700 F Sedeo Pro Power Wheelchair has been carefully created to provide exceptional indoor and outdoor performance.
£7,750.00 with VAT Relief£9,300.00inc VAT
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.