What Is the Best Wheelchair for Seniors?
As you get older and your mobility and balance decrease, you may need a wheelchair in order to get around safely. There are many different types and models, but which is right for you? It’s also possible you might need a wheelchair while you’re healing from an injury or surgery.
We’ve put together to help you find the best wheelchair for your needs.
Types of Wheelchairs
First, it’s important to understand the different types of wheelchairs. These include manual, reclining, electric, and travel. Your physical condition and needs will dictate which type is best for you.
Other considerations include:
- Weight capacity
- Dimensions
- Where you live & type of housing
- Design & comfort
- Battery range & speed
- Storage, portability & adjustability
- Available accessories
- Cost of wheelchairs & warranties
- Insurance coverage
Let’s look at the types of wheelchairs, common wheelchair features, and some of the best models in each category.
Best Wheelchair: Manual
Manual wheelchairs can be either self-propelled or companion propelled. They’re designed so users can operate the wheelchair on their own. It takes quite a bit of strength and coordination to propel a wheelchair so you need to be in fairly good shape
Karman 19.8 lbs. Ergonomic Ultra Lightweight
This wheelchair is one of the lightest on the market. It folds tightly and easily so you can transport and store it almost anywhere. It has a weight capacity of 220 lbs. and comes with customizable ergonomic components.
Drive Medical Silver Sport 2
This model is ideal for people with limited mobility due to age or injury. It’s available in three seat sizes so you choose one to fit your frame. Rear push handles make it easy for a companion or caregiver to operate the wheelchair, too.
Best Wheelchair: Electric
Electric powered wheelchairs are designed for people who have limited upper-body strength. They operate with the use of a joystick that is easily within arm’s reach.
Porto Mobility Ranger D09
This model is a foldable, lightweight wheelchair that offers all-terrain capability. It weighs only 52 lbs. and has a travel speed of 5 mph. There is a weight capacity of 396 lbs.
Its two 24V lithium batteries allow you to travel up to 16 miles. Adding a second battery set can enhance the distance. The soft cushion seat is designed for maximum comfort.
Foldawheel PW-1000XL
If you need a more substantial wheelchair, the Foldawheel is a good choice. It’s still pretty lightweight at 56.4 lbs. and can travel up to 5 mph. With the two lithium batteries on board, you can travel up to 18.6 miles before needing to recharge.
Best Wheelchair: Travel and Transport
This type of wheelchair is designed so your partner or caretaker can push you around. They are lightweight and more portable than other types of wheelchairs, though they’re not suitable for long-term use.
If you are traveling and need transport temporarily, this is a good option.
Drive Medical
This is an extremely affordable model. It may be a good option if you’re traveling or waiting for Medicare to approve a permanent wheelchair. It weighs only 26 lbs. and folds flat for easy transport and storage.
Get Where You Need to Go Safely
Just because you have limited mobility does not mean your life should be limited. The best wheelchair models will allow you to still get out for medical appointments and fun activities.
Our network of dealers can help you select a wheelchair or the best products for your needs. We can also assist you with wheelchair assessable vehicles, vehicle seating, and wheelchair lifts for personal and commercial vehicles.
Related Articles:
- 3 Accessible American History Vacations
- 5 Ideas for Observing MS Month
- The Importance of Honoring Parkinson's Awareness Month
- 5 Reasons Why Wheelchair Marathons are Fun and Important
- Spring Cleaning Time! How to Clean an Accessible Living Space
- 7 Benefits of Swimming for People With Disabilities
- What Is the Best Wheelchair for Seniors?
- What Is a Caregiver?
- Driving in a Wheelchair: 3 Reasons to Get Back on the Road
- 5 Reasons to Have a Family Game Night With Special Needs Children
- What to Do When Stuck At Home: 7 Fun Senior Activities Ideas
- Halloween Costumes for Wheelchair Users
- Disabled-Friendly Floor Plans: The Best Layouts for Handicap Accessible Homes
- Handicap Apartments: Must Have Components of a Handicap Accessible Apartment
- Best Handicap Ramps for Home: A Complete Guide
- 3 Vacation Goals to Achieve With Your Handicap Van
- Windy City Weekend: Chicago with the Twardowskis
- Which Wheelchair Ramps Will Work for My Needs?
- Universal Design 101 with Rosemarie Rossetti, Ph.D.
- Tips for Traveling in a Wheelchair Van
- The Top 10 Wheelchair Accessible Cities of the US
- 5 Ways Universal Design Affects Everyone
- Teaching Kids About Disabilities: 10 Things Every Parents Should Know
- Songs of Love Foundation Writes Unique Songs for Sick Kids
- Some Words of Wisdom for the Newly Diagnosed
- Service Dog Fraud
- Service Dogs: Challenges and Rewards of Owning One
- SAWs Builds Ramps to the World
- San Antonio's Accessible Amusement Park
- Road Safety Advice for Wheelchair Users
- Qualifying for Social Security Disability After a Spinal Cord Injury
- Bonnaroo and More: Making Music Festivals Accessible
- Michigan Power Hockey Team Prepares for Nationals
- The Thrill of the Hunting from Your Wheelchair
- Getting Dogs Comfortable Around Wheelchairs
- First Semi-Autonomous Vehicle License Given to IndyCar Team Owner
- College Tips for Students with a Disability
- California Organization Accesses Their Spirit of Ability
- Automated Vehicles: More to do with Disabilities Than You Think
- What Are my Options for Accessible Travel?
- November is National Family Caregivers Month
- Able Flight Brings Wheels to the Sky
- 3 Tips to Handicap Parking
- Rocking Your Personal Fashion from a Wheelchair
- Wheelchair Exercises and Chair Exercises