Things You Really Must Know When Buying Reclining Wheelchairs

By Constance Maldonado


Reclining wheelchairs offer comfort and mobility options that their stationary counterparts cannot. They are manufactured to provide choices and help keep patients more comfortable. Before you buy one there are some details you really must know.

You certainly must consider the weight of the patient that will use the chair. Each style comes with a top weight capacity listed. Most will carry up to two hundred pounds easily. But should you need a higher limit, then the average is up to three hundred pounds. Also think about the added weight of the wheelchair itself. With many weighing in around fifty or sixty pounds, this is an added amount that will need to be moved when transporting a patient.

The seat width is another dimension you must choose wisely. Most are offered in increments beginning at fourteen inches and ranging up to twenty. Order the width that will accommodate the hips and then some. People must have a bit of wiggle room because they will be in the chairs for long periods of time. Caregivers must also be able to reach in and lift their charges in and out.

Most chairs have some kinds of removable foot, arm and head rests. The combination depends on the manufacturer. Supporting the person who will use them is the top priority. Some people find foot rests to be in the way and they never use them. Others cannot walk and need them for extra support. Asking caregivers what is best may be a way to buy what is needed.

Double check to see the range of recline the chair offers. Some have unlimited reclining with no set stops. Others only have predetermined stopping places. So you will need to determine if the patient will need to fully recline or partially do so.

Reclining wheelchairs should be purchased with easy to clean upholstery and frames that do not have a lot of hardware sticking out. Spills are a frequent occurrence, so easy clean up is important. Many people have sensitive skin which must be protected from easy bruising and scratching, so frames should be sleek and out of the way as much as possible. Keeping the person who will be in the chair comfortable, clean and safe is the ultimate goal. Read more about: reclining wheelchairs




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