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Natasha's Recommended Wheelchairs
What are the benefits of a Wheelchair?
If you struggle to walk, whether because of balance impairments, muscle weakness, breathing difficulties or pain, you may find you are restricted to what you can achieve day to day. A wheelchair can open up a world of opportunities, with the confidence that you are safe and steady in a seated position. Whether you need it for all mobility or on the odd occasion, once you have a chair you can enjoy the freedom of being able to move around more independently again, doing things in your own time, at your own pace. Whether you propel yourself or have assistance for someone else, there are plenty of options to keep you and your helper safe and mobile.
With the ever-growing choice of wheelchair sizes, shapes and colours, there is a lot to consider when you purchase a chair. I love the range CareCo hold as you can not only find a chair that offers you comfort but you also have a range of colours and styles to meet your taste. However, buying the wrong chair can leave you uncomfortable and even unsafe so be sure to consult my top tips and view my favourite models before finalising your choice.
Cambered wheels - Offering reduced shoulder stress and a more efficient use of your energy when self propelling, this wheel position also makes turning easier.
Lightweight frames - If you regularly transport the chair, a lighter frame can make lifting safer and will make propelling it much easier for you and/or your assistant.
Tyre options - Solid are best if you need to move over rough terrain like gravel and can last longer than pneumatics, but air tyres can offer more shock absorption and can be better if you are a heavier user.
Removable wheels - Being able to remove wheels with just one push makes transporting the wheelchair far easier.
Do you need to use the wheelchair as a seat during transportation?
Will you need to store the wheelchair, and can it get around your home?
Will the wheelchair comfortably support your weight?
Make sure there is enough space to sit comfortably with enough support.
Will you be lifting the wheelchair into a car or storage space?
Makes storage and transportation much easier.
You should think about your lifestyle and level of mobility before deciding on a wheelchair. If possible, visit a CareCo showroom to try before you buy. Below are my favourite wheelchairs from the CareCo range, including both self- and attendant-propelled models.
CareCo Fold and Go Wheelchair with Carry Bag
Who could benefit?
Fold & Go If you travel frequently and need a portable wheelchair, the CareCo Fold & Go is ideal.Â
What makes it useful?
This chair is so simple to collapse that it can be done one handed. It can be left standing upright in confined hallways or small cupboards when stored or laid flat in the storage bag when in transit. It is also lightweight so could help those who struggle to propel the user because of the weight of a chair, and those who struggle to lift a chair into the boot of a car.
Things to consider
Consider your transfer method – this chair has short armrests so may not offer you the support you need to stand. The parking brake is low down and will require your assistant to bend down low to operate it by hand, or be capable of balancing on a single leg to operate it with their foot.
I-GO Airrex LT Transit Wheelchair
Who could benefit?
The Airrex is designed to benefit those who transport a wheelchair in a car and those who want to use their wheelchair at a desk or table.
What makes it useful?
The lightweight frame with wide grip handles to operate the brakes makes this easy to use for an attendant who might weaknesses of their own. It is light enough to be lifted with one hand which can help those with less strength place the chair in a car. The user has a good level of comfort from the padded seat and back without the need for additional cushions. With height adjustable footplates you can ensure your comfort is optimised while your posture is supported.
Things to consider
Be careful of your finger position when collapsing the arm rests to reduce the risk of entrapment at the lowest height. Consider the seat height to ensure you can stand up from it without difficulty.
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CareCo Aluminium Traveller
Who could benefit
The CareCo Aluminium Traveller works well for those who make frequent short journeys with an attendant.
What makes it useful
Being a classic design, this wheelchair will offer familiarity to those who have used a standard chair before. It is simple to use, with minimal removal sections. With larger back wheels, you may find this easier to propel. The solid tyres mean you will not have the worry of punctures to contend with.
Things to consider
Consider your comfort – this chair does not have suspension so you may feel surface changes more so than when in other chairs. Although lightweight, there are lighter designs available so consider how often you will be lifting the chair. The armrests are not removable.
I-Go Candi Self Propelled Wheelchair
Who could benefit?
The Candi would work very well for active wheelchair users or anyone who transfers into a car without assistance.
What makes it useful?
Why blend into the crowd when this chair offers subtle but unique colours to the seat and frame? The drop down armrests are a great idea to allow you to sit close to your dressing table or even at a dinner table without having to leave the comfort of your chair, which is great if you find transfers difficult or painful. With push release wheels you can quickly dismantle the chair to put in a car or store in other small spaces.
Things to consider
Where are you going to be using the chair? Make sure that you have sufficient width to get through doorways and corridors without scraping your knuckles. Consider what flooring you will be moving over – even the thinnest of rugs can cause extra effort to move over sometimes.