People with minor or major disabilities have to spend much of their time in wheelchairs. For some, this is a transitional phase, while for others it can be a permanent reality. Finding the right wheelchair can make a big difference in the quality of life of a person facing disability, whether for the short term or a lifetime.
Lightweight wheelchairs in particular, are easy to manoeuvre since they put less strain on the limbs and the joints than heavier models of wheelchairs. Karma Mobility, the UK’s leading wheelchair sale specialists, provides an exhaustive range of lightweight wheelchairs designed to comply with the requirements of the most demanding users.
Progressing to a lightweight wheelchair
If you are used to powerchairs and wish to progress to a lightweight wheelchair, you should take several things into consideration. Firstly, determine, with the help of your doctor, if this is physically possible. Depending on your injury or physical condition, moving around on your own with a wheelchair may not be the best solution for your rehabilitation or lifestyle needs. In these cases, it may be a better idea to invest in a motorised wheelchair.
Another consideration is timing. For those where disability is a temporary situation, purchasing a lightweight chair too soon may not be a wise choice. You may not be ready to use one yet and should therefore take the time to consider how you feel physically following your injury.
Criteria and considerations
While the choice of a lightweight wheelchair is going to be a matter of personal taste and convenience, there are some universal criteria that you should take into consideration before committing to a purchase.
Firstly, you should consider where you want to use the wheelchair, how long for and what accessories you may need. Trying a wheelchair before purchasing to ensure it is comfortable for the user and carer is also very important.
The material is also important. Most lightweight wheelchairs are made of aluminium.
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