Getting the right manual wheelchair isn’t just about measurements, though those are important and should always be reviewed by your clinician and supplier before ordering. A well-configured wheelchair supports your daily life, enhances your independence, and reflects your personal style. Everyone’s needs are different, which is why best practice recommends fitting the wheelchair to the person and not the other way around.
Coming prepared for your wheelchair trial can help streamline the process and empower you to advocate for what matters most. The following tips are designed to help you prioritise your goals and identify the non-negotiables in your next chair.
Where are you going, and how do you get there?
One of the first things to consider is how you’ll transport your chair. This can influence whether a rigid or folding frame is more suitable:
Tip: During your trial, test how the chair fits into your usual mode of transport, whether that’s a car, taxi, or public transport.
What are you doing, or not yet doing?
Made-to-measure wheelchairs are designed to support your body and maximise your function. This being the case, I would encourage you to make a list of all the tasks you currently do, what you have difficulty doing, or what you would like to do. Discuss with your therapist or dealer the possibility of trying some of these activities. This will help your therapists and supplier fine-tune the set-up and balance of the chair.
Tip: Don’t be afraid to take the trial further then your living room. Consider all your functional tasks across a variety of environments, and make sure you include transfers.
Material matters, but it’s not everything.
Manual wheelchairs are commonly made from materials such as aluminium, titanium, or carbon fibre, with each material having its own unique characteristics. Ultimately, the choice often comes down to where you are going, how you are using your chair, and the level of comfort it can provide. I personally consider these three materials in the following way:
Thanks to advances in engineering, the weight difference between these materials is now minimal. The best choice depends on your environment, how you use your chair, and how often you lift or transport it.
Tip: Consider your comfort, energy required to propel the chair, your environment (e.g. if you live near the beach or are often in wet environments) and how you may manoeuvre your chair in and out of a car.
Comfort and posture is more than just a cushion.
Your cushion and back support are just as important as the frame. They affect your posture, comfort, propulsion, and skin protection. These elements should be trialled in conjunction with the chair, as they work together as a system.
If you have a preferred cushion or backrest, ask to include it in the trial. Your therapist and supplier can guide you through the options, but your comfort and preferences are key.
Tip: Ask what the cushion is made of and what it’s designed to do whether it’s for pressure relief, postural support, or both.
Make it yours with individualisation and style.
Most wheelchairs can be customised to reflect your personality and preferences. If colour, design, or specific features are important to you, mention them early in the process. This helps ensure the right models are brought to your trial.
Tip: If your preferred customisation isn’t available at the time of order, there are great third-party companies that offer after-market options from spoke guards to frame wraps and more.
Final thoughts.
Your wheelchair should support your lifestyle, goals, and identity. You are the expert on your own needs, and your voice is essential in the prescription process. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, try different setups, and speak up about what matters most to you. You are the expert on yourself.
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Useful information, created with and for wheelchair users.
Disclaimer
The content in this blog is intended to be informative and empowering, sharing general insights and experiences around life with assistive technology. It reflects the views of the author and is not a substitute for personalised medical, clinical, or professional advice.
Everyone’s needs, goals, and health circumstances are unique. If you’re considering any changes to your equipment, routines, or support, we always recommend speaking with your Occupational Therapist, healthcare team, or another qualified professional.