Choosing The Right Transport Chair
What is a Transport Chair?
A light wheelchair that easily folds to fit in your car trunk and is not as bulky as a standard wheelchair.
How do I choose the best Transport chair for my needs?
Weight – Since this is supposed to be an easily transportable item, weight is important, especially if you are going to more than one location throughout the day. The lower cost more basic transport chairs are typically made of steel, so will be heavier. Aluminum transport chairs are lighter and cost more but are more popular. Rule of thumb, as the chair weight goes down the cost typically increases.
Seat Size – Comfort is a key criterion, so choosing the proper size chair is important. The most common seat width is 19”, but they are also available for smaller people at 17” or larger people up to 22”. It’s best to consult with a therapist, health professional or provider when making this choice. As well, the majority of transport chairs come with foot rests that are adjustable in length, swing out of the way and are removable for convenience when storing or putting in the car. It’s a good idea to make sure that is the case with the chair you’re considering.
Brakes – The brakes are used to lock the chair in place when stationary. An important safety item when getting in and out of the chair. They are usually located on the rear wheels. Not all braking systems are equal. Typically the lower cost transport chairs have a more basic breaking system. In many cases this is sufficient; however, if this is a concern you should take a look at the higher end transport chairs. You will see that the mechanism is better quality and they brake better. As well, some transport chairs come with hand brakes, this can be convenient if you’re dealing with hilly surfaces or a heavier person.
Wheels – The better quality chairs usually have larger and softer wheels providing a better ride.
Handles – Some of the better transport chairs have ergonomically designed handles. Again for some this may be helpful while for others unimportant due to infrequent use.
Flip back and removable arms – Some transport chairs come with flip back and removable arms (see image above). The arm rest can flip all the way back if needed. This is important for those who have limited mobility and require lateral transfers from their chairs, cars or any other area.
Transport chair/Rollator – This is simply a Rollator that converts and allows someone to sit facing forward on the seat with a back support and foot rests. This can provide a convenient two in one option.
When it comes to price, there are online Canadian stores that can provide higher end transport chairs for significant savings. A local store in Toronto www.seniorsstore.ca is one of them. For more information you can call 416-231-1300. |