Folding Wheelchairs

Folding Day Wheelchair

Folding Day Wheelchair

Folding wheelchairs overview

Folding wheelchairs key characteristics

  • Generally, a folding frame wheelchair will consist of welded frames onto which flexible seat is attached.
  • The back of the chair has the ability to fold down
  • The wheels typically have a quick release mechanism to enable easy transportation and storage of the wheelchair.
  • Most folding frame wheelchairs are made from either aluminium
  • A lightweight folding frame wheelchair can weigh as little as 20lbs without it’s wheels. (note due to the additional brackets and complexity these chairs are heavier than there fixed frame equivalent)
  • As the folding chair is heavier, it will be more difficult to push, therefore putting morte stress on your shoulder joints.
  • As folding frame wheelchairs have more moving parts, they are generally weaker than rigid wheelchairs and have a shorter lifespan.

Typically what are the characteristics of a person who would benefit from a folding wheelchair?

  • Someone who has a lower level of upper body strength
  • Wants to be independent
  • Is young and active (5-50 years)
  • Sees their wheelchair as part of their body and not just a piece of furniture
  • Will carry the wheelchair in their vehicle but has limited storage space

Folding wheelchair benefits

  1.  A folding wheelchair is generally a lot more portable than a rigid wheelchair. When the person using the wheelchair is going to their destination by car, the wheelchair can be folded down and carried in the boot or on the back seats.
  2. When a folding wheelchair isn’t in use, you can just fold it up and stow it away. In fact enough for some people to carry upstairs for storage.
  3. Another bonus for a folding wheelchair is that it’s a good option for an individual who doesn’t have a lot of strength in his upper body. With a folding wheelchair, it doesn’t take nearly the upper body strength or coordination to be able to use the chair and move it around
  4. Aesthetics : The design of some folding wheelchairs makes them very attractive as well functional