When you find that you’re going to need a wheelchair long-term, what are some of the things you need to consider?  For starters, is the wheelchair a temporary need or permanent? Are you home bound or will you be out and about as well? While at home, will you always be in the chair or just when you need to get around the house? What is your budget? In this article we will do our best to help you find answers to these questions and find the right wheelchair for you.

The objective is to find the right wheelchair for your size, lifestyle, and budget. A wheelchair should be something that is adaptable to you, not the other way around. The wheelchair you select will impact your daily comfort and maneuverability.

Weight is Important

Weight can be one of the most important considerations when looking at wheelchairs. If you are going to be using it outside the home, somebody has to load it into and out of your vehicle every time you make a stop. Heavier, steel wheelchairs can be cumbersome and difficult to handle. On the other hand, the better brands of the standard wheelchairs are more durable and might last longer. A lightweight frame is easier to handle, easier to get in and out of the car, and easier to use – both for the user and the person pushing you.

What are the Weight Differences?

Materials and adjustability of the wheelchair can make all the difference. Standard wheelchairs are made of steel, weighing more than 35 pounds. They are usually foldable and have limited adjustability.  You can get a dependable standard wheelchair for $200-$300.

Lightweight wheelchairs are of aluminum or steel alloys and weigh between 25 and 35 pounds. They tend to have more adjustments available than their heavier cousins (i.e., seat height, armrest height, removable wheels, etc.) These are often foldable. These chairs can range from $300 - $1,000.

Ultra lightweight wheelchairs are the lightest. They will weigh in between 15 and 26 pounds.  They’re made of aero-grade aluminum or titanium. Moreover, the ultra-lightweight chairs are often highly customizable, with additional adjustable features that add to the sustainability of the wheelchair. These chairs start typically start around $1,000  and go up from there.

Go with the Features

To find out which one is correct for you, we highly recommend that you come in and sit in the different types of wheelchairs. Compare the features that matter most to you. These should include comfort, back/lumbar support, weight, cost, durability, and ease of use.

Our Lightweight Models

The Karman Flexx wheelchair is a great example of the ultimate adjustable ultra-lightweight wheelchair available at the most competitive price. It has been designed by mixing a competitive metal (Aircraft Grade T6 Alu) with the most efficient geometry to make it an effective and highly configurable wheelchair. For users who don’t want to consider a high-ticket custom-made wheelchair, the Flexx is the highest adjustable ultra-lightweight wheelchair in the market at its price point. Sarah F. says it best,” I recommend this chair highly.”

Another of our favorites is the Strongback 24. The Strongback 24 stands out with a patented ergonomic design that is both flashy and comfortable. It also has a patented seating system that delivers unparalleled comfort; supporting the lumbar and spine like no other wheelchair. The wheels are easily removed leaving 16 pounds of chair to be placed in the car.

Learn more about what's happening at Affordable Medical Equipment. Visit us, explore our products, compare price, features and models, and we’re sure you’ll find the perfect answer to meet your needs.