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. TiLite TRA Adjustable Titanium Rigid Wheelchair
    TiLite TRA Adjustable Titanium Rigid Wheelchair Item Code: SW120
    FREE Shipping

    This TiLite TRA Adjustable Titanium Rigid Wheelchair from Permobil offers rock solid rigidity thanks to its Tilite Dual-Tube technology build.

    £2,895.00 with VAT Relief
    £3,474.00
    inc VAT
  2. TiLite ZRA Adjustable Titanium Rigid Wheelchair
    TiLite ZRA Adjustable Titanium Rigid Wheelchair Item Code: SW119
    FREE Shipping

    To maximise durability and strength, the Tilite ZRA Adjustable Titanium Wheelchair from Permobil boasts a minimalist mono-tube frame. 

    £2,695.00 with VAT Relief
    £3,234.00
    inc VAT
  3. Quantum Edge 3 Stretto Power Chair
    Quantum Edge 3 Stretto Power Chair Item Code: SW118
    FREE Shipping

    Manufactured by Quantum Rehab, this Quantum Edge 3 Stretto Power Chair is one of the narrowest mid-wheel drive Powered Wheelchaired on the market.

    £4,850.00 with VAT Relief
    £5,820.00
    inc VAT
  4. Quantum Q6 Edge HD Power Chair
    Quantum Q6 Edge HD Power Chair Item Code: SW115
    FREE 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
    £6,300.00
    inc VAT
  5. Quantum Q4 Power Chair
    Quantum Q4 Power Chair Item Code: SW114
    FREE Shipping

    The Quantum Q4 Power Chair features a highly compact design and is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.

    £3,395.00 with VAT Relief
    £4,074.00
    inc VAT
  6. Quantum Edge 3 Power Chair
    Quantum Edge 3 Power Chair Item Code: SW113
    FREE 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
    £6,594.00
    inc VAT
  7. Quantum Lightning Power Chair
    Quantum Lightning Power Chair Item Code: SW112
    FREE Shipping

    The Quantum Lightning Power Chair boasts a rear-wheel drive system and state-of-the-art design that provides an exceptionally smooth ride and improved obstacle climbing performance.

    Special Price £3,995.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £4,995.00
    Save: £1,000.00
    £4,794.00
    inc VAT
  8. Quantum Q6 Edge HD Power Chair - TB3 Seating
    Quantum Q6 Edge HD Power Chair - TB3 Seating Item Code: SW111
    FREE 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
    £7,194.00
    inc VAT
  9. Quantum Sparky Paediatric Power Chair
    Quantum Sparky Paediatric Power Chair Item Code: SW110
    FREE Shipping

    The Quantum Sparky Paediatric Power Chair is a highly compact yet powerful Chair that is perfect for even the most active users.

    £3,150.00 with VAT Relief
    £3,780.00
    inc VAT
  10. Quantum Aspen Power Chair
    Quantum Aspen Power Chair Item Code: SW109
    FREE Shipping

    The Quantum Aspen Power Chair boasts a modern, stylish design and features a rear-wheel drive system that helps to provide improved outdoor performance and a smooth, comfortable ride.

    £2,995.00 with VAT Relief
    £3,594.00
    inc VAT
  11. Quantum Kozmo Power Chair
    Quantum Kozmo Power Chair Item Code: SW108
    FREE Shipping

    This high-performance Quantum Kozmo Power Chair features an incredibly compact design making it perfect for use indoors.

    £1,995.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,394.00
    inc VAT
  12. Quantum Q6 Edge Z Power Chair
    Quantum Q6 Edge Z Power Chair Item Code: SW107
    FREE 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
    £8,100.00
    inc VAT
  13. Quantum Q6 Edge 2.0 Power Chair - TB3 Seating
    Quantum Q6 Edge 2.0 Power Chair - TB3 Seating Item Code: SW106
    FREE Shipping

    This Quantum Q6 Edge 2.0 Power Chair is fitted with a TB3 seating system that is fully customisable to ensure ultimate user comfort.

    £4,395.00 with VAT Relief
    £5,274.00
    inc VAT
  14. Quantum Q6 Edge 2.0 Power Chair
    Quantum Q6 Edge 2.0 Power Chair Item Code: SW105
    FREE Shipping

    The Quantum Q6 Edge 2.0 Power Chair is the ideal choice for even the most active user and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

    £3,995.00 with VAT Relief
    £4,794.00
    inc VAT
  15. Quantum Q4 Power Chair - ION Seating
    Quantum Q4 Power Chair - ION Seating Item Code: SW104
    FREE Shipping

    This Quantum Q4 Power Chair is a truly compact, mid-wheel drive chair that comes equipped with the new ION seat, which is available in two sizes.

    £2,750.00 with VAT Relief
    £3,300.00
    inc VAT
  16. Permobil SmartDrive MX2+
    Permobil SmartDrive MX2+ Item Code: SW103
    FREE Shipping

    The highly versatile Permobil SmartDrive MX2+ is a powered Wheelchair add-on that can be fitted to most manual wheelchairs.

    £4,499.00 with VAT Relief
    £5,398.80
    inc VAT
  17. Permobil K300 PS Junior Power Chair
    Permobil K300 PS Junior Power Chair Item Code: SW101
    FREE 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
    £7,342.80
    inc VAT
  18. Permobil X850 Corpus 3G
    Permobil X850 Corpus 3G Item Code: SW100
    FREE 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
    £11,994.00
    inc VAT
  19. Permobil F5 Corpus Powerchair
    Permobil F5 Corpus Powerchair Item Code: SW099
    FREE 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
    £13,419.60
    inc VAT
  20. Permobil F3 Corpus Powerchair
    Permobil F3 Corpus Powerchair Item Code: SW098
    FREE 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
    £11,140.80
    inc VAT
  21. Permobil M5 Corpus Powerchair
    Permobil M5 Corpus Powerchair Item Code: SW097
    FREE 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
    £10,002.00
    inc VAT
  22. Permobil M3 Corpus Power Wheelchair
    Permobil M3 Corpus Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW096
    FREE 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
    £7,074.00
    inc VAT
  23. Permobil M1 Power Wheelchair
    Permobil M1 Power Wheelchair Item Code: SW095
    FREE Shipping

    The Permobil M1 Power Wheelchair is the latest addition to the Permobil powered wheelchair range. This luxurious Powerchair is fitted with adaptable seating and positioning, making it extremely easy to manoeuvre both indoors and outdoors. 

    £4,115.00 with VAT Relief
    £4,938.00
    inc VAT
  24. Ki Mobility Tsunami ALX Wheelchair
    Ki Mobility Tsunami ALX Wheelchair Item Code: SW093
    FREE Shipping

    The Ki Mobility Tsunami ALX Wheelchair is an extremely lightweight and rigid chair that represents real value for money.

    £1,595.00 with VAT Relief
    £1,914.00
    inc VAT
  25. Ki Mobility Liberty FT Tilt In Space Wheelchair
    Ki Mobility Liberty FT Tilt In Space Wheelchair Item Code: SW094
    FREE Shipping

    Unlike the majority of its competitors, the Ki Mobility Liberty FT Tilt In Space Wheelchair has been specially designed for easy transportation and user propelled; whilst still providing all the benefits of a tilt-in-space wheelchair.

    £2,495.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,994.00
    inc VAT
  26. Ki Mobility Ethos Wheelchair
    Ki Mobility Ethos Wheelchair Item Code: SW092
    FREE Shipping

    The Ki Mobility Ethos Wheelchair is a lightweight rigid chair that boasts an innovative design and features Isolation Technology (Iso Tech) that combines a unique vibration damping ride with a striking design.

    £2,995.00 with VAT Relief
    £3,594.00
    inc VAT
  27. Ki Mobility Catalyst 5Vx Folding Wheelchair
    Ki Mobility Catalyst 5Vx Folding Wheelchair Item Code: SW091
    FREE Shipping

    The Catalyst 5Vx Wheelchair is a highly cost-effective version of Ki Mobility's flagship Folding Active Wheelchair the Catalyst 5.

    £1,395.00 with VAT Relief
    £1,674.00
    inc VAT
  28. Ki Mobility Catalyst 5 Folding Wheelchair
    Ki Mobility Catalyst 5 Folding Wheelchair Item Code: SW090
    FREE Shipping

    This Catalyst 5 Wheelchair is an incredibly lightweight Wheelchair and is the flagship chair from the Ki Mobility range.

    £2,395.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,874.00
    inc VAT
  29. Ki Mobility Rogue Wheelchair
    Ki Mobility Rogue Wheelchair Item Code: SW089
    FREE Shipping

    The Ki Mobility Rogue XP Wheelchair is an extremely sleek Wheelchair that is the ideal choice for those users that require a smaller frame. 

    £2,395.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,874.00
    inc VAT
  30. Ki Mobility Rogue Wheelchair
    Ki Mobility Rogue Wheelchair Item Code: SW088
    FREE Shipping

    Featuring a state-of-the-art design this Ki Mobility Rogue Wheelchair is an exceptionally rigid Wheelchair with maximum responsiveness.

    £2,495.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,994.00
    inc VAT
  31. Ki Mobility Little Wave Clik Wheelchair
    Ki Mobility Little Wave Clik Wheelchair Item Code: SW087
    FREE Shipping

    The unique and innovative Ki Mobility Little Wave Clik Wheelchair has been designed for Children and it can be easily adjusted in size with a simple "clik".

    £2,295.00 with VAT Relief
    £2,754.00
    inc VAT
  32. SMOOV Wheelchair Power Assist
    SMOOV Wheelchair Power Assist Item Code: SW086
    FREE Shipping

    The SMOOV Wheelchair Power Assist is a sleek and powerful power add-on that has been constructed to promote independence and confidence in a wheelchair user.

    Special Price £4,350.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £4,663.00
    Save: £313.00
    £5,220.00
    inc VAT
  33. Alber E-Fix E35
    Alber E-Fix E35 Item Code: SW085
    FREE Shipping

    The Alber E-Fix E35 Wheels have been carefully designed to convert a manual wheelchair into a powered one thus allowing the user to keep using their existing chair.

    Special Price £4,200.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £4,571.00
    Save: £371.00
    £5,040.00
    inc VAT
  34. Alber E-Motion M25
    Alber E-Motion M25 Item Code: SW084
    FREE Shipping

    These highly versatile Alber E-Motion M25 Wheels are specially designed to fit on almost any modern wheelchair thus allowing the user to continue to use their customer-made chair. 

    Special Price £4,950.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £5,316.00
    Save: £366.00
    £5,940.00
    inc VAT
  35. Alber E-Fix E36
    Alber E-Fix E36 Item Code: SW082
    FREE 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
    £6,360.00
    inc VAT
  36. Alber Twion M24
    Alber Twion M24 Item Code: SW080
    FREE Shipping

    The Alber Twion M24 wheels boast state-of-the-art electronic motors and innovative software that help to provide the user with the ultimate driving experience whilst also promoting maximum confidence and independence. 

    £4,166.00 with VAT Relief
    £4,999.20
    inc VAT
  37. Invacare Rea Azalea Tilt In Space Wheelchair - Large
    Invacare Rea Azalea Tilt In Space Wheelchair - Large Item Code: SW079
    FREE Shipping

    This Invacare Rea Azalea has been carefully designed to provide ultimate levels of comfort and is the ideal choice for both passive and moderately active wheelchair users.

    Special Price £1,995.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £2,393.00
    Save: £398.00
    £2,394.00
    inc VAT
  38. Rea Azalea Tilt In Space Wheelchair
    Rea Azalea Tilt In Space Wheelchair Item Code: SW078
    FREE Shipping

    The high-quality Rea Azalea Tilt-In-Space attendant-controlled wheelchair has been manufactured to the highest standards and designed for moderately active and more passive wheelchair users. 

    Special Price £1,995.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £2,393.00
    Save: £398.00
    £2,394.00
    inc VAT
  39. Invacare Rea Azalea Tilt In Space Wheelchair - Small
    Invacare Rea Azalea Tilt In Space Wheelchair - Small Item Code: SW077
    FREE Shipping

    The Invacare Rea Azalea Tilt-In-Space Wheelchair is the perfect choice for moderately active or more passive wheelchair users.

    Special Price £1,995.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £2,393.00
    Save: £398.00
    £2,394.00
    inc VAT
  40. Kuschall Champion SK 2.0 Folding Wheelchair
    Kuschall Champion SK 2.0 Folding Wheelchair Item Code: SW076
    FREE Shipping

    This Kuschall Champion SK 2.0 Folding Wheelchair boasts an innovative design and folds down to a highly compact size when not in use.

    Special Price £2,895.00 with VAT Relief
    Was: £3,134.00
    Save: £239.00
    £3,474.00
    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.