Whether you need a wheelchair to assist with ambulation in your assisted living community or any other residential area, choosing the right chair is important. The ideal wheelchair for you depends on various factors, such as your navigational abilities and what is most comfortable. This article is intended to help you make an informed decision. 

How to Pick the Right Wheelchair for You

Types 

Wheelchairs come in several types, such as the standard manual wheelchair where you use your arms to move the wheels and subsequently get around. These chairs also feature handles on the back that loved ones and health care professionals use to move you from one place to the next. Power chairs rely on electric motors and batteries to move about, with the user navigating such chairs via joysticks. 

These chairs also come in lightweight, transport, and reclining/tilt options. Lightweight wheelchairs are highly portable not only because they weigh less than standard and power models, but also because they typically include foldable and adjustable components. These chairs can be placed in vehicle trunks, among other spaces, without taking up much room. Transport wheelchairs are also light and known for their portability. They feature smaller back wheels and require a loved one or caregiver to push them. As a result, they are typically used for short-term purposes only. 

Reclining or tilted wheelchairs provide support for those with different conditions. They can  be adjusted to take pressure off of certain areas of the body, such as the lower back. Also known as ergonomic wheelchairs, these chairs are often grouped with customizable models that can include features such as an oxygen tank or umbrella holder. 

Deciding Factors 

The right wheelchair for you depends on your lifestyle and current health. If you have upper body strength or want to improve your upper body strength and do not mind operating the wheelchair yourself, consider a standard version. Should various conditions or other health issues prevent you from operating the chair, a power model is best. Customizable wheelchairs are also recommended in light of health conditions, since they can be outfitted with features that improve daily life, such as oxygen tanks. 

You might also consider lightweight wheelchairs if you often travel from your assisted living community and do not want family and friends dealing with a heavy chair. If you only need the chair for a short time, such as while recovering from an illness, injury, or surgery, a transport wheelchair is a good option. 

Abbington Assisted Living is proud to provide senior care throughout Columbus, Pickerington, Powell, Chillicothe, and Coshocton, OH. Our senior living communities are one-story buildings that are designed with comfort and security in mind, offering comprehensive assisted living and nursing care services in a compassionate, comfortable, and cost-effective manner. Please visit our website or call us directly at (614) 451-4575 in Columbus, (614) 577-0822 in Pickerington, (614) 789-9868 in Powell, (740) 773-4630 in Chillicothe, or (740) 623-4600 in Coshocton.