Wendy's Wheelchair Info & Tips
Here are general guidelines
to help you select your wheelchair:
Get Medical Advice
First. Ask your medical doctor or physical therapist what
they recommend for your individual situation. Each person's needs
are different and getting personal advice for your particular diagnosis
is our recommendation. We are happy to find you exactly what has been
prescribed for you at the best price.
How to decide what type
of Wheelchair? Base your selection on the patient's needs first
but also consider the caregiver's ability to safely lift and maneuver
the chair. The overall size of the wheelchair must also be considered
to be sure it fits where you need it to go.
Transport Wheelchairs are
also called companion wheelchairs. They have four smaller wheels and
fold for easy transport and storage. The companion pushes this chair
which is narrower than other chairs and lightweight due to the smaller
wheels. These chairs are not meant for the patient to propel themselves;
in that case a chair with two large back wheels is needed.
Standard Wheelchairs are good for use up to several hours at a time. They can be folded and
self propelled. They have many options such as removable, elevating
and swing away legrests as well as desk arms, full arms and removable
armrests. They weigh more than other chairs making them more difficult
to transport.
Lightweight Wheelchairs are best for people who will use the chair more
frequently than a few hours a day. They come in all sizes with many
armrest and legrest choices, colors, upholstery and a full range of
many other options. Their many options and lighter weight, less than
34 pounds, make these ideal for many users.
Heavy Duty (Bariatric) Wheelchairs
accommodate users weighing
over 300 pounds. Their heavy duty construction and sizing make them
the right choice for anyone in this category.
How to decide what size?
Make sure the wheelchair will fit through the narrowest doorway through which you
need to go. In general, transport wheelchairs are 3" wider
than their seat width, and other chairs are 8" wider than their seat
width. Measure your doorways and check the exact sizes on each wheelchair
page to be sure it will fit.
How to measure the user
for the right size? Measuring for most chairs requires the correct
seat width and depth. You can measure the needed width by putting a
book on each side of the user's hips while they are sitting. Measure
the space between the inside of the books. That is the basic seat width
they will need. If heavy outer clothing will be used, add another inch
to accommodate. To measure the correct seat depth needed measure, while
seated, the back of the user's buttock to the back of the knee. If
the person will be propelling the chair with their feet, be sure to
measure, while seated, from the back of the knee to the floor. Once
you have these measurements check on each wheelchair description page
to select the right size options.
Remember these above tips are
general guidelines and your medical professional should be consulted
for specific questions about your individual needs.
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