Your Wheelchair Questions Answered

You may be unfamiliar with wheelchairs and their necessity and be wondering how you or a loved one will be able to get around. This article will discuss the differences between wheelchairs as well as what to expect when operating a wheelchair. No one has to be stuck in bed or in a chair stationary any longer. A wheelchair can improve their quality of life and let them get out of the house or hospital.

When was the first wheelchair invented?

The wheelchair has had a long history with mankind. The first foldable wheelchair with steel tubing was invented by Henry Jennings in 1932. Early wheelchairs have been linked back to the Chinese as far back as 525 CE and even have been documented with royalty. King Phillip II of Spain was depicted in a wheeled chair with head, foot and arm rests but it was not self-propelled.

What types of wheelchairs are there?

There are a wide plethora of different styles of wheelchairs on the market. Some are used primarily for day-to-day use and some are specialized wheelchairs used for sports. Wheelchairs can be hand operated or they can be motorized. They come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes so that individuals preferences can be taken into account.

I've seen those ads for motorized scooters. Are they the same thing as a wheelchair?

Motorized scooters and wheelchairs are similar in that they both help an individual become mobile but are quite different in their uses. Most people who use a motorized scooter only need them for specific instances such as when shopping or getting around their living arrangements easier. People who must use wheelchairs can use a scooter if they are able to transfer themselves over to the unit and can maintain their balance.

What sizes do wheelchairs come in?

Wheelchair sizes range from those used by children upwards to those chairs that can accommodate plus size adults. Each wheelchair has a maximum weight limit it can support. If the individual weighs more than the recommended weight allowance, a bigger chair will be needed to support his or her girth and weight.

How do I decide which wheelchair is best for me?

Wheelchairs come in a variety of shapes and styles. Deciding which wheelchair is best for you depend on your level of mobility and how long you will need the wheelchair. Some people prefer motorized wheelchairs. This is especially true if they lack upper body strength needed to propel the chair up inclines. If you are a condition that greatly reduces your total body strength, you may want to consider a specialized chair that takes your limitations into mind. You should also consider your home when making a determination. Large spaces can accommodate motorized wheelchairs much easier than apartments or mobile homes. In those cases the person may want to utilize a hand propelled chair that can maneuver well in tight spaces.

How much does a wheelchair cost?

Wheelchairs come in a great variety of styles and materials. The rigid wheelchair can range from $400 to $3000 depending on the model. All-terrain wheelchairs can cost thousands of dollars. One of the biggest factors in cost is what the wheelchair will be used for and whether or not it is motorized. Motorized versions will cost much more than their hand operated cousins. Some people find that they cannot afford buying a wheelchair, especially if they do not have insurance, so they elect to buy a used wheelchair that is still in good operating condition.

Does insurance cover the cost of a wheelchair?

If the attending physician writes a prescription for a wheelchair, your insurance company will cover the cost or at least a portion of the costs. It must be a medical necessity in order for insurance to pay for the chair. If you do not have insurance you may be able to find a wheelchair in a medical supply outlet or find a used one in good shape. There are also organizations and charity groups that provide wheelchairs for people with limited income.

How do I make my home wheelchair accessible?

You can make your home wheelchair accessible by installing a few items that can help the impaired individual. You must make sure that your door is wide enough to accommodate the width of the chair and wheels. You should also install a ramp leading to your door if there are steps involved. Hopefully you have a downstairs bathroom; otherwise you will have to install equipment that can allow the person to see to their bathroom needs. If you find that you are not skilled enough to make the changes, you can hire a contractor that specializes in handicap renovations.

Is there wheelchair etiquette?

Yes, you may be surprised to know that there is etiquette where wheelchairs are concerned. The first is to always allow your children to ask questions. You want them to not act shocked or are rude when they are around individuals in wheelchairs. It is better for them to know how to ask the proper questions than to let them be afraid or uncertain. One common faux pas individuals do when meeting a person in a wheelchair is to not shake their hand. Even if the person is impaired, it is considered good manners to greet them and shake their hand as you would any one else. When in a group of friends and one or more people are confined to a wheelchair, make sure and include them in the discussion and conversation. All people deserve respect and acknowledgement.

My wheelchair is not motorized and the palms of my hands are becoming irritated by the wheels. What can I do?

Manually operating a wheelchair can be very rough on the arms and hands. Most people who use a wheelchair a majority of the time will elect to wear special gloves. The gloves are made of light weight leather, have padding in the palms and are usually missing the finger tips. The absence of the finger tips allows the user the freedom to perform tasks without being forced to remove their gloves.

How do I keep my wheelchair in good condition?

You can keep your wheelchair in good condition by keeping it out of the elements. Water can cause the gears and spokes to become rusty. If your wheelchair becomes wet, you will need to make sure it is dried. Small nuts and screws need to be checked regularly for any loosening. You should also make sure that the padding has remained stitched and that no rips or tears are present. Tires should be free from bald spots and free from any protruding lumps in the material.

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