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These Additional Features Will Make a Wheelchair More Comfortable
These Additional Features Will Make a Wheelchair More Comfortable


 
There's deservedly been a growing focus on accessibility in recent years. In the United States, around two million new wheelchair users crop up every year, and around 650 million people around the world live with some kind of disability. However, a disability doesn't mean that one doesn't have an active lifestyle or can't be self-reliant -- there are countless amazing people doing things that completely able-bodied people wouldn't be able to do every day. However, there are certainly some accommodations that need to be made, as most things in our everyday lives are meant for able-bodied use. From a rehab shower chair (perhaps turned regular shower chair) to tires for wheelchairs and seeking out inclusive excursions, there are plenty of ways to accommodate everyone, no matter their needs or capabilities.

What Should I Know About Wheelchair Maintenance?


The most basic rule of thumb is to keep the wheelchair clean and dry for optimal performance. A Wheelchair Assessment Checklist is available if one is looking to do a
more in-depth inspection as well. In terms of cleaning the wheelchair, general household cleaners work just fine, though a car care product might be useful for the tires and casters. However, you should pay close attention to any damage to the frame or fasteners, as those can compromise the structural integrity of the wheelchair.


Make sure that wheelchair tires remain properly inflated and make sure that any axles and inserts are cleaned regularly and free of grease or other grime. Keeping upholstery clean and replacing when it's worn out will also bring added comfort to the user.


You should also ensure that the wheelchair locks are engaging properly to avoid any potential accidents or mishaps.


What Additional Features Should I Consider for My Wheelchair?


If you're in a full-time wheelchair, you likely want a rigid wheelchair, which will conform better to the shape of your body, rather than being designed to fold up and only be used when necessary. Seat covers, side guards, and cushion covers can all be nice additions to a wheelchair, to maximize comfort and minimize wear and tear on the wheelchair itself.


If you're levering in and out of a rehab shower chair or other surfaces, footrests and good brakes are helpful for maneuvering as well. When traveling and using public transportation, it's also good to look up what you can expect at the airport, train or bus station, etc. Make sure that the hotel, for example, has a rehab shower chair, or other accessible room and bathroom facilities.


Wheelchairs are also being equipped with tons of smart tech these days -- if you have limited upper-body mobility, there are devices that can keep you connected to e-mails, texts, web browsing, and so on. Headlights and a carrying bag can also make your wheelchair safer and more functional, as can a wheelchair tray that folds away when you're not using it.


What Else is Helpful to Have in the Home If I'm Wheelchair-Bound?


Ramps are a definite necessity to facilitate you getting in and out of your home. And a rehab shower chair is also usually quite important as well, as well as plenty of rails and handles that you can use for support and leverage. A lower sink is also helpful -- both in the bathroom, but also the kitchen as well! Low work surfaces in the kitchen can also improve independence and ease of use.


Handlebar grips and lower door handles, light switches, and curtain or blind pulls are also important. And if you have a multi-story house, a staircase lift (or elevator) will be necessary to traverse between levels. It's also not a bad idea for a panic button to be installed somewhere or to have one that can be worn around the neck, in case of emergency.


Ensure easier living for a loved one who is more reliant on wheelchair use with certain modifications to your home. Even with limited mobility, one can still have an active and healthy lifestyle, which is what you want to encourage!



Product Code: -956-POST-04-24-2019
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Product Summary
 
There's deservedly been a growing focus on accessibility in recent years. In the United States, around two million new wheelchair users crop up every year, and around 650 million people around the world live with some kind of disability. However, a disability doesn't mean that one doesn't have an active lifestyle or can't be self-reliant -- there are countless amazing people doing things that completely able-bodied people wouldn't be able to do every day. However, there are certainly some accommodations that need to be made, as most things in our everyday lives are meant for able-bodied use. From a rehab shower chair (perhaps turned regular shower chair) to tires for wheelchairs and seeking out inclusive excursions, there are plenty of ways to accommodate everyone, no matter their needs or capabilities.

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