Selecting Wheelchairs

Selecting from the wide choice of wheelchairs can be confusing. As wheelchairs come in so many shapes and sizes it often best to categorise them. There are essentially three types of wheelchairs, each having its own specific purpose.

Transit or Transfer wheelchairs

The most used of all wheelchairs is the transit or transfer wheelchair, named as such as it is intended for short journeys where the user then moves in to a car or a bed etc. Transit wheelchairs are pushed by an attendant and therefore have smaller wheels than self propelled wheelchairs. Often seen in hospitals where they are essential for transporting patients, transit wheelchairs are available with both steel and alloy frames and generally have attendant brakes to make stopping easier. Other features to look at on transfer wheelchairs are aimed at comfort and include adjustable footrests, cushioned upholstery and pneumatic tyres. Seat size in also an important factor to consider as they vary with different models of transit wheelchairs. Read a letter from our customer Mr Dennis Shaw who recently bought a transit wheelchair: "Many thanks for the service that you have provided in completing our wheelchair purchase. The wheelchair arrived at 9-30 am today and I have to say that it is excellent value for money and will make the life of a lady who is 92 years old a little easier.

Self propelled wheelchair

The second most popular group is the self propelled wheelchair, so called because the user propels them self using the large rear wheels. Self propelled wheelchairs are popular with those who want maximum independence and to come and go without relying on an attendant. So what is different about self propel wheelchairs ? the main difference is the wheel size and frame shape that allow the user to best propel them self, often for long periods, in a comfortable fashion. This sets them apart from the transfer wheelchairs or transit wheelchairs as they are also known. Self propelled wheelchairs come in a wide range of choices. Some self propelled wheelchairs are intended for the long term user who has a condition that means they may be bound to wheelchairs for the rest of their life. Other wheelchairs are intended to suit users who are in a temporary state of disability and who only require wheelchairs for a limited time due to injury or illness. Read a letter we received from a happy customer, Mr P Hough: "Just to let you know of my appreciation, your Esteem alloy self propel wheelchair arrived on Wednesday less than 24 hours after it was posted to me. Very good service!! On Friday I had to use it to go London - the Albert Hall, altogether 2 train journeys and 4 taxi rides. The wheelchair was light and easy to put on the train and into the taxis, and was a pleasure to use after my last heavy steel wheelchair! Many thanks for an excellent product and service, (free postage as well) Regards, Pete

Electric wheelchairs

It is important that electric wheelchairs are not to be confused with electric scooters. Electric wheelchairs are exactly that, a wheelchair that is fitted with a battery-powered electric motor. Electric wheelchairs possess all the same features as other wheelchairs and allow many types of adjustment to suit the individual user and to ensure that they are both comfortable and supported. The key benefit of electric wheelchairs is freedom, as the user is able to travel as far as the power pack allows which is often many miles. Hear about this customers experience; I wish to thank you and all your staff for the prompt efficient order system and on time delivery of the electric wheelchair, received this morning. Your courier delivery driver was also very friendly and helpful. Thank you all very much, I will certainly recommend your company to others, and will have no problem dealing with you again.