Why do you need a wheelchair
A stroller is needed when it is impossible to move long distances independently. It is not necessary that a person should not walk at all. The vehicle is useful for those who suffers from severe coordination problems or cannot stand or walk for long periods of time. For example, for older people who move around the apartment themselves, but have difficulty going for a walk.
When can I rent a stroller?
A wheelchair is a big purchase that can put a big dent in your pocket. Therefore, it is worth assessing in advance how necessary a personal vehicle is.
Renting will be a practical solution if health problems are temporary. For example, when a person is limited in movement due to injury or after surgery. Also, a rental option is suitable if support is needed only for the duration of a long trip.
You can rent a wheelchair from rehabilitation equipment rental companies. Offers are also posted on ad services. The rental period starts from one day, and prices fluctuate around 150 rubles per day.
When should you buy a stroller?
The purchase is definitely necessary when it is clear that mobility problems will not completely disappear or will remain for a long time. This happens in chronic conditions:
- partial or complete paralysis;
- amputation of both legs;
- multiple sclerosis, in which the person’s immune system attacks and damages nerve cells and their connections in the brain and spinal cord;
- osteoarthritis, due to which the cartilage inside the joint starts deteriorate, and the bone to which it is attached changes.
Another case when it’s worth consider purchase – there is an elderly person in the family who has great difficulty walking. As he ages, his muscles and sense of balance will likely only weaken.
What types of wheelchairs are there?
They are differentiated depending on how they are driven.
Wheelchairs
Technically, it’s not really a stroller. This vehicle resembles a chair on wheels. The user cannot operate it independently, so a second person is needed to push the device.
Wheelchairs are lighter than regular strollers, but they are less heavy-duty and less durable. They have smaller wheels and no rollover protection.
Usually wheelchairs use in hospitals, train stations and airports. But it is also suitable for home. For example, in situations where a person is so weakened that can’t control device himself and he definitely needs an assistant. It will be convenient for the accompanying person, because the small wheels of the gurney help to maneuver the vehicle more accurately and easily.
Manual strollers
On the rear wheels of wheelchairs There is rim. By pushing them, the person controls the vehicle himself. Handles are usually placed on the back of the chair. Therefore, if necessary, an accompanying person can push the stroller.
Manual strollers are considered reliable and easy to use.
Such vehicles are quite lungs. But thanks to the large wheels you can drive on uneven roads and overcome small obstacles. For example, curbs.
Many wheelchair models are foldable. This is important if the owner is going to transport the vehicle in the car or check it in as luggage at the airport. The function will also be useful when the wheelchair is used only outdoors, but at home its owner wants to save space.
Among manual chairs, there are not only basic models for everyday use, but also other types. The appropriate option is chosen depending on the purpose. For example, a stroller with a sanitary chair will be useful for older people who cannot move to the toilet on their own. Active type devices are suitable if a person plans to frequently travel outdoors. And sports options allow you to play tennis, basketball or dance.
Lever Strollers
The main difference between this stroller is the levers. The person presses on them to move the device, rather than using the rims.
Such a vehicle is suitable for those who have well-developed muscles, because working with levers requires effort.
Electric strollers
These strollers are electrically driven and battery powered. The driver controls the speed and direction of movement using the remote control.
Electric drive is a suitable option for people who can’t control stroller by hand and for those who move a lot during the day.
Fully charged stroller batteries last for at least 8 hours. On average, this is enough to travel from 16 to 32 km.
Electric wheelchair can be hard maneuver at home, due to the fact that it takes up more space than any other. It also cannot be folded and is quite difficult to transport – this will require a special van.
What is important to consider when choosing a stroller
When choosing, you should navigate on human parameters and device characteristics.
Stroller user weight
All wheelchairs have a designated maximum load capacity. Never exceed this maximum, otherwise the vehicle may break under the person.
Stroller size
To sit comfortably in a stroller, you need take account several parameters:
- Seat width should be such that there is 2.5–3 free centimeters between the hips and armrests. Then the chair will not press or rub.
- Seat length. There should be approximately 5 cm from its edge to the inside of the knees.
- Seat height from floor. To define optimal, you need to measure the distance from the inside of the knee to the heel and add 5 cm. But it is worth considering that in Russia strollers with a seat height of 45–55 cm are usually sold.
- Armrest height. To determine the fit, measure the distance from your elbow to the seat with one arm raised up. The elbow should be at a 90° angle. If a person often gets up, then it is better to choose full-size armrests. And if you have to sit straight in the stroller during work or lunch, choose armrests that reach the height of the tabletop.
- Back height. Measure the distance from the base of your neck to your tailbone. Add the thickness of any additional cushions the person sits on (if used). Subtract 6 cm.
- Footrest height. They should be positioned so that the hips are slightly raised and aligned so that the seat provides even support to the buttocks.
Tire structure
The rear wheels are made either with an air chamber or from solid rubber.
Tube wheels provide better shock absorption while driving, but they can puncture. But solid rubber options are protected from this, but they are more difficult to ride.
Wheel camber
Camber is the angle at which the wheels are positioned to each other. If the camber is large, the position of the wheels resembles a triangle with a wide base. This gives the stroller is stable, reduces the load on the shoulders and makes turning faster.
Footrest type
The most common type is articulated footrests, which recline forward and backward. They are convenient for sitting up straight, and also if you need to fix your leg in a certain position, for example after a fracture.
There are also height-adjustable footrests. They comfortable for people with bedsores, since you can change the position of your legs so that they are not constantly in one position.
Removable armrests
It is better to choose removable or swivel armrests – this will make it easier to place a person in a stroller, especially if he cannot sit in it himself.
Backrest tilt
For those who cannot sit without support, it is better to choose a stroller with a reclining back. This way the person will be in a safer reclining state and will not tip forward.
Brakes
There are models with brakes located on the push handles. They help the attendant better control movement on slopes and ramps. But there is a big disadvantage: such brakes cannot be used by a person sitting in a stroller. So, it is better to choose a unit that has hand brakes located near the rear tires.
How long will a wheelchair last?
The service life of a manual stroller is largely depends from how she is cared for. Therefore, it is important to carry out regular maintenance: clean it, lubricate it, change worn parts. With proper care, the vehicle will last five years or more.
An electric stroller also requires maintenance. But its operation also depends on the life of the battery. Typically it ranges from one to two years. After this, the battery needs to be replaced.
What might you need besides a wheelchair?
In addition to the stroller itself, it’s worth note for accessories:
- Gloves help protect the skin of your hands. Will be needed for those who chose the manual control option.
- Seat belts provide reliable fixation in the chair.
- Pillows help avoid bedsores, adjust seat height, provide comfort for the neck, back, lower back and buttocks.
- Bag for things it is usually attached behind the back of the chair.
- Case or bagprotects from cold, rain and snow, because it covers the legs and stroller on all sides.
- Tray table fixed on the handrails.
- Cane holder useful if a person can stand up on his own, but needs support.
Is it possible to get a wheelchair for free?
Wheelchairs included included in the list of funds necessary for rehabilitation, so they can be obtained at the expense of the state. Including electric wheelchairs and batteries for them.
To apply for a vehicle you will need:
- Passport and SNILS of the person who needs it.
- An individual rehabilitation program, which prescribes what kind of wheelchair is needed.
- Information about registration, stay or actual place of residence.
- The representative’s passport and a document confirming his authority (if someone is caring for a disabled person).
Documents and an application for a technical means of rehabilitation are submitted to the social fund. This can be done remotely, through State Services. The person then gets in line and receives the stroller they need as soon as it becomes available.
In Moscow you can contact to the Disability Resource Center. If a suitable chair is available, it will be issued on the same day, and if not, later.
If you use a wheelchair, write in the comments what else is worth considering when choosing a means of transportation. Then we will be able to supplement the guide with your advice.
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