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. Single Arm Aluminium Trackwheel
    Single Arm Aluminium Trackwheel Item Code: SW158
    FREE Shipping

    This Single Arm Aluminium Trackwheel is designed to fit on wheelchairs with a rigid footplate and is the perfect companion for use on a wheelchair to allow a user to travel over difficult terrains.

    £399.00 with VAT Relief
    £478.80
    inc VAT
  2. Double Arm Carbon Fibre Trackwheel
    Double Arm Carbon Fibre Trackwheel Item Code: SW157
    FREE Shipping

    The Double Arm Carbon Fibre Trackwheel is the perfect Wheelchair accessory that can be equipped with both rigid and folding wheelchairs with removable footrests, when attached it enables a user to travel over difficult terrains that they normally would not be able to.

    £599.00 with VAT Relief
    £718.80
    inc VAT
  3. Single Arm Carbon Fibre Trackwheel
    Single Arm Carbon Fibre Trackwheel Item Code: SW156
    FREE Shipping

    The Carbon Fibre Trackwheel with single arm is a Wheelchair accessory that enables users to easily tackle rough terrains that they normally wouldn't be able to.

    £499.00 with VAT Relief
    £598.80
    inc VAT
  4. Rehasense Icon 60 Wheelchair
    Rehasense Icon 60 Wheelchair Item Code: SW155
    FREE Shipping

    The stylish and user-friendly Rehasense ICON 60 Wheelchair is available with a host of different seat widths and is well-known for being one of the most adjustable wheelchairs on the market today.

    £1,495.00 with VAT Relief
    £1,794.00
    inc VAT
  5. Q300 R Power Wheelchair
    Q300 R Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW154
    FREE 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
    £6,936.00
    inc VAT
  6. Q300 M Mini Teens Power Wheelchair
    Q300 M Mini Teens Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW152
    FREE 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
    £7,500.00
    inc VAT
  7. Progeo Exelle Vario Wheelchair
    Progeo Exelle Vario Wheelchair Item Code: SW151
    FREE Shipping

    Specially designed for active Wheelchair users, the Permobil Progeo Exelle Vario Wheelchair is extremely lightweight and can be easily folded to a highly compact size.

    £2,268.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,721.60
    inc VAT
  8. Progeo Tekna Tilt 2.0 Wheelchair
    Progeo Tekna Tilt 2.0 Wheelchair Item Code: SW150
    FREE Shipping

    Offering a wide range of positioning and seating options, the Progeo Tekna Tilt 2.0 Wheelchair is an extremely compact and folding wheelchair that can tilt, has an optional recline feature, and elevating leg rests.

    £3,618.00 with VAT Relief
    £4,341.60
    inc VAT
  9. Progeo Tekna Advance Swing Away Wheelchair
    Progeo Tekna Advance Swing Away Wheelchair Item Code: SW149
    FREE Shipping

    The Permobil Progeo Tekna Advance Swing Away Wheelchair is an exceptionally lightweight and folding wheelchair that is the perfect choice for active and independent wheelchair users.

    £2,862.00 with VAT Relief
    £3,434.40
    inc VAT
  10. Progeo Tekna Advance Wheelchair
    Progeo Tekna Advance Wheelchair Item Code: SW148
    FREE Shipping

    This Permobil Progeo Tekna Advance Wheelchair is an extremely lightweight, folding wheelchair that is the perfect option for an active and independent wheelchair user.

    £2,538.00 with VAT Relief
    £3,045.60
    inc VAT
  11. Progeo Joker Junior 2.0 Wheelchair
    Progeo Joker Junior 2.0 Wheelchair Item Code: SW147
    FREE Shipping

    The Progeo Joker Junior 2.0 Wheelchair boasts a rigid frame and has been carefully designed to meet the individual needs of each child, therefore, allowing them to express themselves.

    £2,538.00 with VAT Relief
    £3,045.60
    inc VAT
  12. PROGEO JOKER ENERGY WHEELCHAIR
    PROGEO JOKER ENERGY WHEELCHAIR Item Code: SW146
    FREE Shipping

    This extremely agile and rigid Progeo Joker Energy Wheelchair is made to measure for every user to provide the perfect fit for the utmost comfort and support.

    £3,834.00 with VAT Relief
    £4,600.80
    inc VAT
  13. Progeo Joker R2 Wheelchair
    Progeo Joker R2 Wheelchair Item Code: SW145
    FREE Shipping

    To provide the user with the most responsive and balanced ride possible the Progeo Joker Wheelchair benefits from both adjustable seating and a rigid frame.

    £3,024.00 with VAT Relief
    £3,628.80
    inc VAT
  14. Progeo Joker Wheelchair
    Progeo Joker Wheelchair Item Code: SW144
    FREE Shipping

    The Progeo Joker Wheelchair benefits from both a rigid frame and adjustable seating, and drive performance to give you a responsive and balanced ride.

    £2,592.00 with VAT Relief
    £3,110.40
    inc VAT
  15. Progeo Ego Custom Wheelchair
    Progeo Ego Custom Wheelchair Item Code: SW143
    FREE Shipping

    The Progeo Ego Custom Wheelchair by Permobil features a fixed frame and is a truly lightweight and folding Active Wheelchair.

    £4,320.00 with VAT Relief
    £5,184.00
    inc VAT
  16. Progeo Ego Wheelchair
    Progeo Ego Wheelchair Item Code: SW142
    FREE Shipping

    The Permobil Progeo Ego Wheelchair features a unique, horizontal folding system that can be locked in, therefore, allowing it to act as a rigid wheelchair.

    £3,834.00 with VAT Relief
    £4,600.80
    inc VAT
  17. Progeo Duke Wheelchair
    Progeo Duke Wheelchair Item Code: SW141
    FREE Shipping

    The Permobil Progeo Duke Wheelchair features a carbon, rigid frame that is extremely lightweight yet strong. It also boasts a fixed front to promote durability, manoeuvrability and agility.

    £3,996.00 with VAT Relief
    £4,795.20
    inc VAT
  18. Progeo Noir 2.0 Wheelchair
    Progeo Noir 2.0 Wheelchair Item Code: SW140
    FREE 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
    £9,136.80
    inc VAT
  19. Icon 125 Transit Wheelchair
    Icon 125 Transit Wheelchair Item Code: PG35327
    FREE Shipping
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    The Icon 125 Transit Wheelchair is an aluminium, multi-functional wheelchair that has been developed to meet the needs of the user and caregiver.

    Express Delivery Available
    From Special Price £1,279.95 with VAT Relief
    £1,535.94
    inc VAT
    Was:
    £1,426.99
    Save:£147.04
  20. Winchester Wheelchair Mac
    Winchester Wheelchair Mac Item Code: PG13882
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    The Winchester Wheelchair Mac is a highly cost-effective garment that has been designed to keep a wheelchair user warm, dry and comfortable during those cold winter months.

    Express Delivery Available
    From Special Price £36.26 with VAT Relief
    £43.51
    inc VAT
    Was:
    £40.29
    Save:£4.03
  21. Refurbished Pride iGo Folding Electric Wheelchair
    Refurbished Pride iGo Folding Electric Wheelchair Item Code: MS35266
    FREE Shipping
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    This Refurbished model of the Pride iGo Folding Electric Wheelchair represents exceptional value for money making it the ideal choice for both new and seasoned Electric Wheelchair users.

    Express Delivery Available
    Special Price £1,144.95 with VAT Relief
    Was: £2,499.99
    Save: £1,355.04
    £1,373.94
    inc VAT
  22. Windermere Warmer Wheelchair Cosy
    Windermere Warmer Wheelchair Cosy Item Code: PG13850
    FREE Shipping
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    The Windermere Warmer Wheelchair Cosy is a specially designed piece of Wheelchair Clothing that provides the user with ultimate comfort and warmth.

    Express Delivery Available
    From Special Price £69.02 with VAT Relief
    £82.82
    inc VAT
    Was:
    £76.69
    Save:£7.67
  23. Pride iGo Folding Electric Wheelchair **B Grade Condition**
    Pride iGo Folding Electric Wheelchair **B Grade Condition** Item Code: U836681
    FREE Shipping
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    This Used Pride iGo Folding Electric Wheelchair represents real value for money and is supplied in a good condition. The Pride iGo is the perfect choice for those users that wish to maintain an independent and active lifestyle.

    Express Delivery Available
    Special Price £899.95 with VAT Relief
    Was: £1,194.95
    Save: £295.00
    £1,079.94
    inc VAT
  24. Alerta Sensaflex 350 Bariatric Pressure Relief Cushion
    Alerta Sensaflex 350 Bariatric Pressure Relief Cushion Item Code: MS34914
    FREE Shipping
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    The cost-effective Altera Sensaflex 350 Bariatric Pressure Relief Cushion provides maximum comfort and effective pressure relief for Bariatric users at a high risk of developing pressure ulcers.

    Express Delivery Available
    Special Price £99.95 with VAT Relief
    Was: £112.89
    Save: £12.94
    £119.94
    inc VAT
    Hurry!
    Offer ends 01-04-2024
  25. Alerta Sensaflex 300 Foam Cushion
    Alerta Sensaflex 300 Foam Cushion Item Code: MS34913
    FREE Shipping
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    The Alerta Sensaflex 300 Foam Cushion is the ideal choice for those patients that have sensitive skin and spend long periods of time seated in a chair or wheelchair.

    Express Delivery Available
    Special Price £62.95 with VAT Relief
    Was: £72.19
    Save: £9.24
    £75.54
    inc VAT
    Hurry!
    Offer ends 01-04-2024
  26. Sensaflex 250 Pressure Relief Cushion
    Sensaflex 250 Pressure Relief Cushion Item Code: MS34912
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    This highly cost-effective Alerta Sensaflex 250 Pressure Relief Cushion is the ideal cushion for those users that spend long periods of time sitting in a chair.

    Express Delivery Available
    Special Price £39.95 with VAT Relief
    Was: £45.69
    Save: £5.74
    £47.94
    inc VAT
    Hurry!
    Offer ends 01-04-2024
  27. Alerta Sensaflex 200 Foam Cushion
    Alerta Sensaflex 200 Foam Cushion Item Code: MS34911
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    The Alerta Sensaflex 200 Pressure Relief Foam Cushion is designed to provide effective pressure relief for users at a medium risk of developing pressure ulcers and those that spend long periods of time seated in a chair or wheelchair.

    Express Delivery Available
    Special Price £32.39 with VAT Relief
    Was: £35.99
    Save: £3.60
    £38.87
    inc VAT
    Hurry!
    Offer ends 01-04-2024
  28. Alerta Mobile Alternating Air Cushion System
    Alerta Mobile Alternating Air Cushion System Item Code: MS34907
    FREE Shipping
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    The highly versatile and cost-effective Alerta Mobile Alternating Air Cushion System is designed for use in hospital, nursing and care home environments in the effective prevention and treatment of users at a high risk of developing pressure ulcers.

    Express Delivery Available
    Special Price £294.95 with VAT Relief
    Was: £343.39
    Save: £48.44
    £353.94
    inc VAT
    Hurry!
    Offer ends 01-04-2024
  29. Roma Reno Elite Power Chair **As New**
    Roma Reno Elite Power Chair **As New** Item Code: U833980
    FREE Shipping
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    Offering real value for money, this Used Roma Reno Elite Power Chair is supplied in an "As New" condition making it the ideal choice for a new Powered Wheelchair user.

    Express Delivery Available
    Special Price £699.95 with VAT Relief
    Was: £1,299.95
    Save: £600.00
    £839.94
    inc VAT
  30. Alerta Gel-Visco Cushion
    Alerta Gel-Visco Cushion Item Code: MS34878
    FREE Shipping
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    The Alerta Gel-Visco Cushion is a pressure relief cushion that can be used on almost any seating surface and is designed to provide effective pressure redistribution for users in hospital, nursing and home environments.

    Express Delivery Available
    Special Price £109.95 with VAT Relief
    Was: £125.89
    Save: £15.94
    £131.94
    inc VAT
    Hurry!
    Offer ends 01-04-2024
  31. Alerta Gel Cushion
    Alerta Gel Cushion Item Code: MS34877
    FREE Shipping
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    The cost-effective Alerta Gel Cushion contains polyurethane SensaGel and conforms to the users body shape, to provide the user with optimum comfort and pressure relief.

    Express Delivery Available
    Special Price £84.95 with VAT Relief
    Was: £99.99
    Save: £15.04
    £101.94
    inc VAT
    Hurry!
    Offer ends 01-04-2024
  32. Alerta GelCube Cushion
    Alerta GelCube Cushion Item Code: MS32999
    FREE Shipping
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    The Alerta GelCube Cushion boasts a patented dual honeycomb air-gel construction in order to provide ultimate comfort, care and pressure redistribution for users in hospital, nursing and home care settings.

    Express Delivery Available
    Special Price £114.95 with VAT Relief
    Was: £134.49
    Save: £19.54
    £137.94
    inc VAT
    Hurry!
    Offer ends 01-04-2024
  33. Alerta Air Cushion with Pump
    Alerta Air Cushion with Pump Item Code: MS32998
    FREE Shipping
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    This Alerta Air Cushion with Pump is a pressure relieving cushion that has been designed for those users at a high risk of developing pressure ulcers.

    Express Delivery Available
    Special Price £62.95 with VAT Relief
    Was: £72.69
    Save: £9.74
    £75.54
    inc VAT
    Hurry!
    Offer ends 01-04-2024
  34. Avant Car Transit Wheelchair
    Avant Car Transit Wheelchair Item Code: PG34824
    FREE Shipping

    The Avant Car Transit Wheelchair represents real value for money and has been designed to provide ultimate levels of stability and ride comfort.

    From Special Price £196.41 with VAT Relief
    £235.69
    inc VAT
    Was:
    £211.19
    Save:£14.78
  35. Avant Self Propelled Wheelchair
    Avant Self Propelled Wheelchair Item Code: PG10038
    FREE Shipping
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    The Avant Self-Propelling Wheelchair is a high-quality, sturdy and comfortable Wheelchair that is designed for users that can propel themselves.

    Express Delivery Available
    From Special Price £199.95 with VAT Relief
    £239.94
    inc VAT
    Was:
    £221.09
    Save:£21.14
  36. Pride Jazzy Air Power Chair - Silver **B Grade Condition**
    Pride Jazzy Air Power Chair - Silver **B Grade Condition** Item Code: U808121
    FREE Shipping
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    This silver-coloured, "B" grade Pride Jazzy Air® Power Chair offers real value for money and features a truly modern and stylish design.

    Express Delivery Available
    Special Price £1,799.95 with VAT Relief
    Was: £2,299.95
    Save: £500.00
    £2,159.94
    inc VAT
  37. Transit-Lite Self Propelled Wheelchair
    Transit-Lite Self Propelled Wheelchair Item Code: PG34710
    FREE Shipping

    The Transit-Lite Self-Propelled Wheelchair is a truly cost-effective, lightweight Wheelchair that is the ideal choice for occasional or travel use.

    From Special Price £259.95 with VAT Relief
    £311.94
    inc VAT
    Was:
    £300.79
    Save:£40.84
  38. Lightweight Transit Wheelchair
    Lightweight Transit Wheelchair Item Code: PG34701
    FREE Shipping
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    Highly versatile, this Lightweight Transit Wheelchair is designed for occasional and frequent use, and can also be used both indoors and outdoors.

    Express Delivery Available
    From Special Price £159.95 with VAT Relief
    £191.94
    inc VAT
    Was:
    £249.95
    Save:£90.00
  39. Cosysit Wheelchair Cosy
    Cosysit Wheelchair Cosy Item Code: PG34626
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    This Cosysit Wheelchair Cosy is designed to keep the user warm and comfortable whilst out in their wheelchair. 

    Express Delivery Available
    From Special Price £26.95 with VAT Relief
    £32.34
    inc VAT
    Was:
    £39.95
    Save:£13.00
  40. Luxury Wheelchair Apron
    Luxury Wheelchair Apron Item Code: PG34623
    Want it fast? Pick it up at our Store or choose Express Delivery in checkout.

    This Luxury Wheelchair Apron is designed to keep the user warm and comfortable whilst out in their wheelchair. 

    Express Delivery Available
    From Special Price £16.95 with VAT Relief
    £20.34
    inc VAT
    Was:
    £29.95
    Save:£13.00
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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.