If you are tossing between whether to invest in a powered wheelchair or a manual wheelchair, it may seem like the former takes the lead concerning benefits.
However, there are many benefits to opting for a manual wheelchair too. It all comes down to factors such as where you’ll be using the wheelchair, your budget, the nature of your mobility challenges and physical fitness.
At Able Medilink, we can support you to find the perfect type of wheelchair for your needs. Whether powered or manual, we’re here to help you find the best option for increased mobility and optimal independence.
Let’s take a look at when a manual wheelchair could be the better choice.
Why Choose A Manual Wheelchair?
So what do manual wheelchairs offer? Here are five great reasons to consider a manual wheelchair over an electric wheelchair.
1. Increased Independence
Using a manual wheelchair can help increase your independence as you can move around under your own power. You are not reliant on batteries and do not need to manage recharging or replacement of batteries to use your chair properly.
2. Improved Fitness
As using a manual wheelchair is an active form of transport, it can help improve your overall fitness levels and enhance upper body strength.
You will need a moderate level of fitness to operate a manual wheelchair from the outset but will find naturally over time that maneuvering the chair becomes easier as your fitness increases through use.
3. Cost Effective
Manual wheelchairs offer great value for money and are generally more cost-effective than their electric counterparts, making them a great option for those on a budget. They require less maintenance and have a much lower initial cost when purchasing.
4. Environmentally Friendly
As manual wheelchairs do not require any electricity to operate, they are much more environmentally friendly than electric wheelchairs. There are also no batteries to dispose of when they reach the end of their lifespan.
5. Compact And Easy To Transport
Manual wheelchairs are typically much more compact than electric wheelchairs, making them easy to transport and store. They are often better suited to indoor use or social activities due to their smaller size and
Downsides Of A Manual Wheelchair
While there aren’t exactly any downsides to manual wheelchairs, there are scenarios in which they just aren’t suited. For instance, if you struggle with limited mobility in your upper body, a manual wheelchair just isn’t going to work.
Likewise, if you have difficulties with breathing, a manual wheelchair may not be the best choice. The action of maneuvering a wheelchair requires good cardiovascular and respiratory health.
If you are considering purchasing a wheelchair, be sure to consult with a medical professional to ensure that a manual wheelchair is a suitable option for you.
Ultimately the type of wheelchair required is more about matching your abilities to the chair so that you can enjoy optimal comfort and independence.
Need Some Help Choosing?
At Able Medilink, we can help you determine which type of wheelchair is required to best meet your needs. We work with you to meet your budget, independence goals and lifestyle so that your chosen wheelchair can be used for many years to come.
Learn about the varying types of features different wheelchairs include and the pros and cons of every option. Our team has years of experience helping customers find their ideal wheelchairs and work with the utmost respect and consideration at all times.
To make this process even easier, we offer consultations over the phone or via Skype as needed for those who cannot make it to our Bentleigh store. No matter where you are in your journey to find the ideal wheelchair, we’re here to simplify and streamline the process.
Call Able Medilink today on 03 9557 9038.
