Self Propelled Wheelchairs
Self-propelled wheelchairs revolutionize mobility by giving users the ability to dictate speed and direction, as well as their destination without the need for an assistant. They can also be customised with a variety of accessories for comfort and convenience.
There are many aspects to take into consideration before purchasing a self-propelled chair. Here are a few of the most important:
Independence
Losing your independence is a worry when you suffer from mobility issues. It can be a traumatic experience to depend on others to take you to where you need to go or go shopping. Manual chairs, also referred as self-propelled wheelchairs, could help you regain or retain your independence. These wheelchairs are easy to use and safe, so you can go out and about without waiting for someone else to take you to the airport.
Self-propelled wheelchairs feature large rear wheels with fitted hand rims that provide you with the ability to move forwards and backwards without the necessity of an attendant. This makes them suitable for more people than you believe, particularly for those who have good upper body strength and endurance. They are also suitable for those who have difficulty walking for long distances or on difficult terrain.
Mobility Shop has a wide range of self-propelled wheelchairs to suit all users. From lightweight and portable models that are ideal for everyday use to crash and transit wheelchairs that are designed for transport and storage, you're bound to find the right model for your requirements. We also have a great choice of reclining self-propelled wheelchairs for added comfort.
All of our self-propelled wheelchairs are available for purchase on the internet and delivered next day to all addresses in the UK. You can also use the search box to sort wheelchairs based on the kind of frame, seat or features you want.
If you have any questions or need assistance in selecting the best wheelchair for your needs don't be afraid to speak with one of our customer service team. We are always happy to help and can be reached on 01278 764454 or email us at [email protected]. We are looking forward to hearing from you! All rights reserved. (c) 2024 The Mobility Outlet, formerly Webster Wheelchairs. Registered company in England & Wales no 07004640. Registered office: Harben House Harben Parade Finchley Road London NW3 6LH.
Manoeuvrability is easy
Self-propelled wheelchairs are great for those who wish to move around freely but don't have enough upper body strength to propel the chair. They allow users to take control of their own mobility and give them a fresh lease on life. They are also great for those who want to stay clear of the expense and inconvenience of powered chairs.
The frame and the centre of gravity of a wheelchair are largely responsible for its manoeuvrability. Research has shown that a chair constructed with the fixed wheels as close to its centre of gravity as it is possible reduces the force of turning significantly.
It is also crucial to consider the weight of the user when determining its manoeuvrability. Heavy chairs have a higher center of gravity, which makes them difficult to maneuver. Conversely, light chairs have a lower centre of gravity, making them easier to move and operate.
Modern self-propelled chairs are designed for easy maneuverability as evident in their small size and light frames. mymobilityscooters are extremely customizable, with features like adjustable seat heights and backrest angle. This lets users customize their wheelchair to meet their specific requirements, which increases comfort and decreases the chance of developing pressure sores and other discomforts.
In addition to providing maximum mobility, self propelled wheelchairs can be fitted with a wide range of accessories and add-ons to improve the comfort. For instance cushions can be used to improve the user's posture and reduce strain. Additionally, a wheelchair could be fitted with a tyre pressure monitoring system that can help reduce the risk of flat tires.
Another advantage of self propelled wheelchairs is that they are simple to transport and put away. A lot of models come with rear wheels that are quick-release, which make it easier to take off the footplates of the chair and front castors. Many models come with half-folding backrests as well as folding seats, making them more convenient to store and transport. Many come with parking brakes, which can be operated by the driver or their attendant. This provides additional safety and convenience.
Customisation
Self-propelled chairs are a great alternative to powered wheelchairs. They offer the user control over the chair. They empower independence by permitting the user to regulate their pace and direction. They also help maintain muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness.
For active users, these wheelchairs are designed to be versatile and able of handling different environments, from paved roads to steep hills. They are generally lighter than transit chairs and can be folded in small vehicles. This makes them a practical and convenient mobility aid that can be used in everyday life particularly for those who live on their own or have little or no assistance.
Aluminium is the most common frame material, but titanium's superior fatigue resistance and durability makes it a top choice for those who are demanding. Titanium is also known for dampening vibration, which is increasingly important since pushing around can cause significant discomfort for those who use wheelchairs. Certain models, such as Ki Mobility's Ethos have been specially designed to minimise this impact, resulting in a comfortable ride, while permitting the user to remain in control of their chair.
Wheelchair add-ons have become more popular. The options range from simple track wheels that lift your front castors off the ground to provide better off-road traction, through to power-assisted wheels (controlled just like a powerchair, but without batteries), to handbikes like Triride's Special Compact, Rehasense's PAWS City, and the Empulse F55. These features can be used to provide the possibility of a lot of personalisation and the ability to tackle even more challenging terrains, boosting your freedom and comfort in the process.
Mobility Shop's lightweight self-propelled chairs come with a variety of features that will help you pick the right wheelchair for you. Our Lite 2 wheelchair, for example, can be fitted with a power assist that allows you to transform an old manual wheelchair into a motorized one with an attendant control. The power assist can be controlled by the lever on your armrest or by the push handle.
Comfort
There is a wide variety of wheelchairs on the market which means that finding the right model for your needs can be a bit difficult. You should also discuss your options with a mobility specialist or GP to get the most suitable advice for your specific needs.
If you are a strong upper body strength and mobility, self-propelled wheelchairs are a great option for daily mobility. They have bigger back wheels and an outer 'push-rim' which can be used to propel the chair. They're also fitted with a handlebar which you can use to steer and control the wheelchair. Self-propelled chairs are generally significantly lighter than transit models, and are also easier to manoeuvre.
Attendant-propelled chairs, on the contrary, are designed to have an attendant push them from behind. These have smaller rear wheels and are generally easier to push than self propelled chairs, however, they can be a challenge to mount obstacles like curbs made of paving. They're also generally heavier to fit into the boot of a car and are therefore not the best choice for transport.
Many organizations offer wheelchair rentals on a daily basis for parks and zoos. It is recommended to reserve in advance to avoid disappointment. You can also hire wheelchairs for a longer period of time from mobility stores. It is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of this alternative, however it could be more cost effective in the long run to buy your own chair.
The addition of a wheelchair to your vehicle can enhance the comfort. Some of these are useful, like footplates and storage bags, while others help you to find a more comfortable seating position. For example, you can add seat cushions to reduce the strain on your thighs and buttocks or headrests to provide additional support.
You can also choose to install brakes with attendants on your self-propelled wheelchair. This is a security feature that is essential for those who are regularly driven. The brakes will make it easier to stop and turn, as well as slow down, particularly for those with heavier weights.