How to choose a wheelchair for an elderly person with hemiplegia?
With the aging of the population, the issue of care for hemiplegic elderly people has received increasing attention. Many friends will prepare a wheelchair for the elderly, but there are significant differences in function and safety between wheelchairs. How to choose a safe and comfortable wheelchair for hemiplegic elderly people? Here are some direct suggestions for you.
Buy liftable armrests instead of fixed armrests. When the armrests on the side of the wheelchair are lifted, it is easier for the caregiver to move the hemiplegic elderly from the side to get on and off the wheelchair, which is safer and easier to use. If the armrests are fixed, the hemiplegic elderly need to be lifted and moved from the front, which is relatively more difficult and risky.
Buy a wheelchair with two pedals instead of one. Don't buy a wheelchair with one pedal just because the hemiplegic elderly has weakness on one side of their lower limbs. This is more likely to cause accidents such as collisions and falls. Choosing a wheelchair with two pedals can provide better support and balance for the elderly's lower limbs, and it is also more convenient to move the elderly.
Buy a wheelchair with dual brake protection, not ordinary brakes. Some wheelchairs only have regular brake functions. If the brake parts are aged or rusted, the possibility of accidents and risks will be much higher. Choose a wheelchair with a dual brake system and brake protection. After the handbrake stops, there will be a second layer of protection, which is safer and more stable.
Buy an adjustable wheelchair instead of a fixed wheelchair. If the seat is too high, it will be difficult to get on and off the wheelchair, or the ischial bones will be under too much pressure. At this time, if you buy an adjustable wheelchair, adjust the seat height appropriately to a comfortable height for the elderly. If it is a fixed wheelchair, if the elderly use a wheelchair of inappropriate height for a long time, it is very likely to cause secondary damage to the body.
Buy a wheelchair that is practical, not one with a single function. A wheelchair with a strong practicality, such as a wheelchair with a portable cushion, storage bag, safety belt, etc., although these functions are not necessarily necessary, they can effectively improve the safety of the wheelchair. If it is a wheelchair with a single function, which only provides a simple walking function, it is not suitable for hemiplegic elderly people.
Buy well-known brands instead of unknown brands. Electric wheelchairs with high popularity and good reputation usually have more mature technology, stricter quality control systems, and more complete after-sales services, which can guarantee the elderly's experience and rights. The technology, quality, and after-sales services of unknown brands of wheelchairs cannot be guaranteed, and the risk of accidents is greatly increased.
Choosing a manual wheelchair for an elderly person with hemiplegia is a task that requires careful consideration. Only by fully understanding the physical condition and needs of the elderly and combining the above purchase points can you choose a truly suitable wheelchair for the elderly.