Some Of The Best Wheelchair Options For Elderly People
We always wish for the best of everything for our near and dear ones. The same applies to when buying a wheelchair for an elderly member of the family. Though we hunt for the best product in the market, there isn't a wheelchair specific to the elderly. This is because the needs of every old person vary. What suits one may not suit the other. What I need, you may not. This is why to select the best wheelchair for your loved one, you should check all of the requirements of the would-be user. It is essential to cover all aspects that will enable them to get a comfortable wheelchair.
With age, our body sets certain restrictions. We aren't as mobile as in our early years. Besides, with the increasing age, several health issues crop up too. This is where a wheelchair comes into play. The mobility device allows the user to freely travel without depending on anyone. Today there are a variety of wheelchair choices that you can choose from. Each one of these wheelchairs is designed in accordance to suit the needs of the user.
With elderly people, it is essential to get them a wheelchair that is functional, strong, and comfortable as well. Thus, there are several factors that you should consider before purchasing a wheelchair. There are two most important factors of a wheelchair that is the height and width. Currently, there is a high demand for lightweight wheelchairs. This is because you can easily fold them and place them in the trunk of the car. Additionally, they are also convenient for traveling.
Benefits of Body Positioning for Seniors in Wheelchairs
With each passing year, our bodies lose strength. This is why elderly people tend to rely on a wheelchair as a means of transport. At the same time, the wheelchair helps with interacting with the outside world. As far as comfort is concerned, it is important to recognize how many hours the user will spend on the wheelchair. Likewise, it is vital to know how it will affect their body.
Often, elderly people have issues with their legs like swelling or edema. Some may even get bed sores and pressure ulcers due to continuous sitting in one place. Thus, it is best to invest in a body positioning wheelchair that will help with circulation and organ function. Similarly, these body positioning chairs prevent swelling, edema, or bed sores too. The main objective of these machines is to allow the user to change the placement of their body apart from sitting.
An incredible benefit to body positioning wheelchairs is that you can allow the user to lie flat on their back. This is a huge advantage as it enables your loved ones to have their mid-day nap. Simultaneously, this feature is beneficial for caregivers too. Many elderly people need to use diapers. In such circumstances, the caregivers can easily change them while they lay flat on the wheelchair.
Things to Consider When Purchasing A Wheelchair For A Senior
When purchasing a wheelchair for an elderly person, it is essential to consider a couple of important factors. These factors can vary from person to person based on their personal needs. However, here we will list some of the common things to consider while buying a wheelchair.
Mobility of the User
Elderly people who have severe mobility restrictions can opt for an electric wheelchair. This is because they are easier to operate than the traditional ones. At the same time, you can also consider powered wheelchairs.
Weight
If you are purchasing a wheelchair for an elderly person, then make a note of the weight of the user and the chair. If the user is on the heavier side then they will require a heavy-duty wheelchair to support them. At the same time, it is important to take note as to who will be lifting the wheelchair during transfers. If an elderly person is carrying a wheelchair, then consider getting a lightweight machine.
Width
Different wheelchairs have varying widths. It is always best to go for a wider-width wheelchair as it will offer maximum comfort. However, before you do so, make sure that you measure the door frames. You will not want your wheelchair to get stuck at the door. Additionally, if you plan on using the wheelchair indoors, then invest in a compact model.
Transportability
You might need to use an SUV or to transport your wheelchair including the traditional ones. Thus, it is wiser to choose an easily foldable wheelchair. This makes it easier for transportation.
Comfort
If the user will be spending a majority of the time on the wheelchair, then it must be comfortable. Choose a wheelchair that has a quality premium construction rather than a sub-standard one. A quality-made wheelchair always offers the best comfort for the user.
Easy-To-Use
When it's a wheelchair for an elderly person, then ensure that they can operate the machine as well. The main purpose of a wheelchair is transportation. And for this, the machine should be easy to use. The wheelchair should have simple features that they can easily operate.
Cost
There are wheelchairs ranging from $100 to $1000 depending on the brand and make. But, not all of us have the finances to purchase expensive models. However, choose a model that serves your purpose. You can always balance out the quality and cost to suit your budget.
What is the Best Wheelchair for the Elderly?
The requirement needs for a wheelchair differs from person to person. And when it comes to an elderly person, then you should speak to them to analyze their needs. Once you know the requirements, you can then start with the hunt. There are a few options for wheelchairs available for senior people. These offer unique features that enhance mobility with ease. In this section, we will look at the various wheelchairs:
Ultra-lightweight and lightweight wheelchairs
Lightweight wheelchairs are the best choice for travel. At the same time, they are simpler to lift and transport too. Lightweight chairs are made using carbon steel, titanium, or aluminum. However, you can find many that incorporate other metals as well. Besides, these wheelchairs are also easier to push in the case of a caregiver. These wheelchairs typically fold up and can be stacked easily in the car. These wheelchairs usually have smaller front wheels with larger back wheels. This allows the user to maneuver the wheelchair independently.
Stand Up Wheelchair
A stand-up wheelchair is a device that enables users to stand up with the help of new technology designs. This wheelchair is especially for people with severe disabilities. Additionally, the feature allows easy transitions and transfers. Besides, it allows the user to independently sit or stand without any help from a caregiver. Moreover, this new technology wheelchair prevents any issues that are common due to constant sitting.
Standard Wheelchair
The difference between lightweight and standard wheelchairs is the weight. Standard wheelchairs generally weigh more than lightweight wheelchairs. Simultaneously, they have similar small front wheels with large back wheels. The elderly person who has good upper body strength can use this wheelchair. At the same time, caregivers can also process pushing the handles for easy transportation.
All-Terrain Wheelchairs
All-terrain wheelchairs are generally designed to travel over tough and rough terrain. With these wheelchairs, you can easily travel over dirt grass, snow, gravel, water, and more with supervision. These are available in both power and manual models as well. These are commonly known as outdoor wheelchairs. Furthermore, the wheelchair is made using non-corrosive materials. Thus, they are extra durable and strong. Moreover, these wheelchairs have oversized balloon-type wheels for safety.
Bariatric And Heavy-Duty Wheelchairs
The elderly who weigh between 300 to 700 pounds can opt for bariatric and heavy-duty wheelchairs. These are specially designed with wide seats and stronger frames to support overweight people. These heavy-duty wheelchairs often have a reclining seat. Also, the wheelchair has handles for the caregiver to push the device around easily.
Four-Wheeled Walker (Rollator)
As the name implies the four-wheeled walker has four rotating wheels, a seat, a brake, and usually a basket as well. This wheelchair is for users who need a walker to help them balance. Such patients find it easier to propel rather than the rolling walker. Moreover, this wheelchair is easier to maneuver and turn as well. There is no need to lift the wheelchair while turning. Also, the wide seat is especially for users who need ample resting. Finally, the basket allows the user to carry items hands-free.
Tilt and Recliner Wheelchairs
The tilt and recliner wheelchair is specially designed for easy transportation and transfers from the bed or toilet to the wheelchair and back and forth. A tilting and reclining seat is very helpful when the user needs to use the bathroom or sleep on a bed. This wheelchair allows the caregiver to lower the backrest first. Then, with the help of another person, both people can lift the patient and place them on the bed or the toilet. This allows for convenient transferring.
Transport Wheelchairs
These wheelchairs are originally used in the hospital setting. But, today, these are available for home use as well. They are quite different from traditional wheelchairs. Also, they have small front and back wheels setting them apart from the standard wheelchairs. Now since they have smaller back wheels, the user cannot propel the device themselves. In such a case, they will have to take the help of another person to push them. This is the only means of transport for the patient. These wheelchairs are ideal for short outings. Besides, they are lightweight devices as well. However, the wheels of the wheelchair might not roll as well as the standard wheelchair.
Rehab Wheelchairs
These wheelchairs are for people who have been recently diagnosed with a disease or condition. Or those who may need to remain mobile. With serious medical conditions, you may require specialized equipment. This is essential to meet the unique medical and functional demands of the user. Your doctor, healthcare provider, or therapist understands your condition better than anyone. So, they will first lookout if you are eligible for complex rehab technology. If you need to know more about CRT and the process of acquiring a CRT wheelchair, then read on. We will also discuss the differences between durable medical equipment and complex rehab.
Complex rehabilitation is usually defined as the equipment or devices that meet the physical, medical, and functional needs of an individual. These individuals may have an injury, trauma, degenerative neuromuscular disease, or more. There is a variety of diagnoses that may need complex rehab technology. People that have traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, and many other similar diseases may benefit from the complex rehab technology.
Power Wheelchairs
Power wheelchairs are suitable for users who cannot maneuver or propel the wheelchair themselves. These devices have electric motors or battery systems that help with maneuvering. In addition, these wheelchairs are also commonly known as electric wheelchairs or motorized wheelchairs. With this device, users can easily move about indoors or outdoors independently. They need not depend on a caregiver to move or travel. These are ideal for those who wish to have more physical involvement.
Medicare Coverage For Wheelchairs
If the wheelchair is necessary medical equipment and if the elderly person has Medicare B, then it will be covered partly or completely. Wheelchairs are durable medical equipment which means you will need a doctor’s written order to purchase one from a DME provider. In order to help your loved ones, get their specific wheelchair, talk to their doctor first. Get aware of the wide range of wheelchair options available out there. Furthermore, there are also many local DME companies that are Medicare-approved. In any case, if you have any doubts pertaining to coverage, you can consider calling on this number 1-800-MEDICARE to know more.
Make sure that you are aware that the processing of a wheelchair can easily take up to a few weeks to months as well.
Bottom Line
We hope now you are clear with the different types of wheelchairs for the elderly. If you are still unsure, we recommend that you do your research and find the ideal one. Some of the top priorities while choosing wheelchairs are comfort, mobility, and finally health too. Talk to the user and find out what features and specifications that they are looking for. With a fresh perspective, you can choose a suitable wheelchair for your loved ones.
