Wheelchairs Manual

• Designed to transport the occupant from A-B by rotating large side wheels.
• Most appropriate for those with missing lower limbs and poor mobility.
• Generally used indoors.
• Available in the following types
• Rigid
• Folding
• Reclining
• Wide body.

Transit Wheelchairs

• Designed to be operated by an attendant to transport the occupant  

    from A-B.

• Most appropriate for those with poor mobility.
• Transit wheelchairs are used indoors and outdoors and can be found

    In shopping centres and airports.

• Available in folding lightweight options.
• FS871L Transit Chair is fitted with Attendant hand brakes that help control

    The chair on steep gradients and rolling down kerbs or steeps.

• Most transit chairs are of a light weight construction and are designed

    To fit into small spaces when not in use.

Electric Wheelchairs
   
Designed to propel the user by means of an electric motor controlled by
A joy stick. Powered by an electric battery.

• Most appropriate for those with poor mobility.
• Generally used indoors but can be used outdoors on paved or smooth

    Surfaces.

• Units can be folded and placed on the boot of a car with the aid of a

    Able bodied assistant.

• Care must be taken to ensure the battery is well charged at all time in order

    to get maximum use.
   

Selecting a Wheelchair

The choice of a Wheelchair will be influenced by:

• The user’s physical (i.e. strength, posture, hand function) and cognitive

       (i.e. problem solving, memory, learning)  abilities.

• The environment in which the wheelchair will be used. 

Factors For Users To Consider

• Do you feel safe using the Wheelchair?
• Are you able to use the Wheelchair correctly?
• Does the Wheelchair give you adequate support?
• Can the Footrests/armrests be set at the appropriate height for you?
• Do you need to use a brake?
• Are you able to operate the brake?
• Are your feet on the ground when seated?
• Are you able to get up from the seat?

Where is the wheelchair To Be Used?

• Inside or outside use, or both?
• Do you need to make changes to your home to accommodate the wheelchair? [i.e. increase width of doorway, install ramps or enlarge platform of steps]
• Is there room to manoeuvre the wheelchair inside the house including the toilet and bathroom?
• Are the floor surfaces smooth and unimpeded?

Transport and Storage

• A lightweight, folding wheelchair is easier to transport and store.
• Aluminium frames are lighter than epoxy coated steel.
• Does the wheelchair need to be transported from one location to another?
• Can you or your carer fold and unfold the wheelchair?
• Can you or your carer lift the wheelchair into and out of the car?
• Will the folded wheelchair  fit into the boot or back seat of the car.