Shop2Wheels

Steve Dempster asked:


We tend to think of mobility problems being solely associated with the later years of life - but that's not entirely true. Many people who are otherwise healthy have trouble getting around, sometimes as a temporary problem - though there are of course those for whom the problem is pretty much permanent. So - what aids are available to those who either find themselves suddenly experiencing mobility issues or for those who are now finding 'getting around' a real bind?

Before we explore the alternatives, it's as well to point out that using an aid to mobility doesn't make you a 'cripple' or a 'geriatric', two terms, one of derogation and one used more often as not as a dismissal, that just aren't acceptable. No - using a mobility aid just means that you've come to terms with a problem. Maybe that problem is as simple as a twisted ankle - maybe it's something far more serious like multiple sclerosis. Either way, once you have accepted that life has changed in some way you are that much closer to accepting the assistance that a

mobility aid can give.

At its simplest, a mobility aid can be a walking stick. Perhaps that knee you busted up in sports years ago has decided that it's going to remind you that you're not twenty years old any more, or maybe that ankle you turned last week is making walking painful. A walking stick is a great aid to mobility - it takes some of the weight off your knees, aids your balance and doesn't cost much!

I'm betting that you've seen people whizzing past you in the street on those little three- or four-wheel scooters. What are they all about? Simply, they're really just an advance on the walking stick, taking the weight off for a while. They let you go off shopping without worrying if your knee, ankle or hip is going to give up on you. Especially useful if you can walk with ease only for a short distance, they can be hired or, increasingly, they are provided at larger shops and malls on a free loan whilst you're there. Many people find that, having experienced their practicality and ease of use, they want one of their very own and just go out and buy one!

But what if you can't either afford a mobility scooter or simply don't want one? Maybe a wheeled walking frame is the answer. Once only seen to be used by very elderly and frail individuals, they are now in use by many people who appreciate their lightness and convenience - especially as many of this type of mobility aid has a built-in seat! Taking up little room in the back of a car they can be taken virtually anywhere, enabling the user to get to places that were previously just too difficult to walk to. Some also fold down into an even smaller space than you'd think possible, meaning they can go with you just about anywhere!

But what other alternatives are there? Well, for those whose mobility problems are likely to be more chronic, the traditional wheelchair has been the answer. The wheelchair has evolved, though! Okay, it's still basically a chair fitted with wheels but is now available in a wide range of weights, designs and looks. There are even models with reclining backs and headrests for those with upper-body mobility issues. In the electrically-powered field of wheelchair design, the combinations are also widely varied, from models that resemble a basic wheelchair fitted with an electric motor up to models that look like a lounge armchair with wheels on! Rear-wheel drive, front wheel drive, centrally driven - sounds more like an advert for types of car than a mobility aid (though I guess that's all a car is, really!). The point is that there's something out there for everyone who needs to make their 'getting around' that bit easier.

In summary, I hope that this short article has made anyone with mobility problems think a little bit more about ways to improve their daily life - because that's what a mobility aid is - an aid that lets you get on with your life and enjoy it a whole lot more!



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Simon Hemmings asked:

It can be very frustrating to us when we become restricted to do things what we have done for many years and worse when we feel dependent on others. Sometimes we get depressed about being helpless and dependent on others. These are some the emotions we go though when we are stuck in wheelchairs.

By using a lightweight wheelchair we can begin to lead a normal as a life as possible. Due to its lightweight we have more options and fewer limitations to what we can do and where we can go. A more independent person we can become again.

There are many benefits of lightweight wheelchair over a more traditional manual chair. Of course as the word says lightweight is one of them, typical lightweight wheel chairs can weigh as little as 19lbs and with this we are able to propel ourselves around, lift them into the car and generally man handle them easier compared to other types of wheel chairs.

Another plus is they can be operated by battery, in this way we can move around with a minimum of effort. A very good plus point is it is useful for a patient who is lacking strength to move the wheelchair themselves.Because it is battery operated, it improves the patient’s mobility and it’s made as a more specialized chair. Wheelchairs can now be modified in many different applications. The lightweight wheelchairs also give a user the freedom to move even with a small quantity of effort.

Manual wheelchair can be sometimes be very awkward because of the weight. Luckily, lightweight wheelchairs are already out in the market for a while. Most of this kind of wheelchair are coded as K0004 (a Medicare code) which lessens the cost as compared to a regular manual wheelchair.

When it comes to the price, lightweight wheelchairs are very inexpensive compared so when you are deciding to buy a lightweight wheelchair, you should try to consider its functionality. If necessary, try to look for the wheel chair accessories accompanied with the purchase that could be a great help for the user’s needs.

He is a few pointers to consider before buying a lightweight wheelchair:

• Most of the lightweight wheelchair weighs 29 to 33 pounds. This is appropriate for moving and for daily use but others can weigh far less.

• Most lightweight wheelchairs have changeable back heights, flip-back armrest, seats and quick-release functionality.

• Choose a wheelchair with a changeable tire. Do not go for a wheelchair that requires the entire wheel unit to be changed.

• If the wheelchair has already flip-back arms, you will not need a wheelchair with removable arms anymore. Flip-backs will be enough and can already satisfy the user’s needs. • If you are planning to buy a seat pillow, it can be a factor in adding the height of the user’s seating position.

• A strong frame, arm rests, leg rest and a good brake are some of the important features which you should look for when buying a lightweight wheelchair.

Use these pointers and you are assured of the best quality lightweight wheelchair available in the market. Lastly, it is most important that you also consider the needs of the person who will use it. Make sure that they will be comfortable in its use.

Remember to let the person realize that it is not a sign of his being disabled. Instead, let the person know that his lightweight wheelchair is the tool for him or her to start a new life again.

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Raquel Simons asked:

Mobility has traditionally been the greatest obstacle for people with a physical disability. The days of being limited to an electric wheelchair have come to an end. A British company has been working to develop a motorcycle for people with physical disabilities, and the results are nothing short of outstanding.

The manufacturer, Martin Conquest Ltd., has developed a motorcycle that is designed to driven from the rider's wheelchair. Alan Martin, the creator of the aptly named Conquest, spent a number of years in research and development of this amazing motorcycle. He came up with the idea after his young son became physically disabled following an accident.

The Conquest is based upon the BMW 850cc or 1150cc motorcycles, and has an integrated aluminum shell that is reminiscent of a racing car. It was developed with the kind assistance of the National Association for Bikers with a Disability, and the Manchester Business School. The manufacturers have recently begun negotiations with Motability, a company that provides lease vehicles for people with a disability.

The Conquest has been available in Britain since August of 2005, and the company hopes to sell at least 100 motorcycles this year. The motorcycle is priced at approximately 18000.00£, which is close to 31000.00 American dollars. It may seem like a rather steep price for some, but for many it will be a small price to pay for the freedom of the road.

For people that have become used to the limitations of electric wheelchairs and have grown tired of being a passenger, this motorcycle will be a welcomed change. The 1150cc model is designed to accelerate from 0-60mph in 8.6 seconds, and has a top speed of 85mph. The excitement this machine has been garnering cannot be properly stated. It has been thankfully received to extraordinary acclaim. It was the talk of the crowds at the Mobility Roadshow in Derbyshire, an exhibition of products for people with physical disabilities.

Martin Conquest Ltd. is now accepting orders for Spring 2006 delivery. Buyers can customize their new motorcycles to include metallic paint, CD players, rear parking sensors, fog lights, and more. Naturally, this motorcycle is going to be a massive success. A high performance motorcycle for people that have grown accustomed to limited mobility is bound to be refreshing. Watch out Peter Fonda! There is a new generation of Easy Riders!

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Patricia Woloch asked:

About one third of the nursing homes in the United States have been cited for abuse. Because neglect and abuse often go unreported, the real number of facilities with abusive staff is unknown. In 2003 USA today reported statistics estimating that one half of all nursing home patients are suffering from untreated pain.

For most families, nursing homes eventually become a necessity. As love ones grow older, many need constant supervision and 24 hour care.

Nursing homes will offer a guided tour to sell their services. Don’t rely on the presentation that they want you to see, when they are prepared and on their best behavior. Do your own checking, in your own way, on your own time, when they are not expecting you.

Visit more than once and at different times of day

Visit the nursing homes you are considering at odd hours. Try to visit in the evening and on weekends, when they are most likely to be short staffed. Drop in near the end of shifts, when the staff is most likely to be tired and irritable.

It may sound mercenary, but you want to see them at their worst. Your loved one will have to live with them through these hours everyday.

Check out meal times

Try to eat a meal with the residents. Don’t warn the nursing home, just drop in. offer to pay for your meal if that is an issue. You are looking for food quality and to see if the residents get the attention and the assistance they need while eating.

Malnutrition is a common problem in nursing homes and can quickly send the elderly into a downward spiral of failing health.

While you’re visiting

Pay attention to odors. Urine or feces odors indicate residents that have not been changed or bathed. Neglecting basic hygiene can lead to life threatening infections. It is also a warning sign of other type of neglect.

Does everyone have water? Dehydration can kill a nursing home resident very quickly. All residents should have water available at all times. Bedridden patients should have water within reach.

Patients who can’t drink without help should be offered water frequently. This is not a luxury for patients, not is it servitude or extra work for the staff. It is one of the primary reasons that nursing homes exist!

Talk to the residents. Notice their grooming, oral care, and nail care. Are they in good spirits or are the majority of residents depressed or confused?

Do some checking

Talk to loved ones of residents and ask them what they think about the level of care the nursing home provides and if they have ever had problems with the facility.

Look at the state survey of the nursing home. The nursing home should have it on hand for your review.

Ask the nursing home about staffing levels. Find out how many staff members work per shift, how many residents live at the facility and how many are bedridden or in wheelchairs.

Monitoring and ensuring proper care

Even after carefully screening and selecting a nursing home, problems can still arise. Sadly, in most cases, the level of care your loved one receives will directly correspond to your level of involvement. Keep up the flow of communication with everyone involved with your loved one’s care, including doctors, nurses, administrators, and other staff.

From the very start, let the nursing home know that you will be observing, that you will be involved, and that you know and understand the laws and what is required of them. You can do this without seeming hostile or combative.

Federal law requires that every patient has an individual plan of care. The nursing home should consult you when drafting this plan. If they have not, ask to see it.

Visit frequently, but not on a regular schedule. Visit on different days of the week and at different times of day, when they are not expecting you. Your loved one should be fully bathed at least three times a week.

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Robert asked:

Buying a lift for your wheelchair, whether it be for your home or your vehicle, is an important decision. The most important aspect of purchasing a wheelchair lift is safety. While there are many styles and models available, there are also many pricing ranges. Among the least expensive of all wheelchair lifts are used lifts that are being sold, either because the current owner has upgraded to another model, or simply because they do not need the lift any longer.

Used items are very popular, but when choosing a wheelchair lift, a used model may not always be the safest and best.

Consider first that with a used wheelchair lift you are not getting a warranty. Most manufacturers offer warranties of up to five years on new models, and with a used model, you will not have the assurance of a warranty to help you in case the lift stops working properly. Replacing parts on a wheelchair lift can be very expensive. In fact, if you are forced to replace an electronic motor, you will probably find that a new lift is even less expensive than the motor replacement itself. Purchasing parts are not the only expense that you may face if you opt to buy a used wheelchair lift. Considering that most people do not know how to repair wheelchair lifts, then you will probably need a repair person to install the new part. These fees alone can be outrageous. With the purchase price of the new part, and the fees to have someone install it for you, you will likely be better off, and save money, but purchasing a new lift to begin with.

Money is only one aspect of the problems that you may have with a used wheelchair lift. Safety should always be your number one concern when deciding on a lift. If you choose a lift that is used, then you have no way to determine how safe the mechanism is. If the motor stops working while the lift is halfway to its destination spot, then you, or your loved one, are stuck on the lift. You run the risk of falling off while you are working to get the lift moving again. There are many things to consider when purchasing a used wheelchair lift. Safety and money just happen to be the two most important aspects of the decision.

If you are purchasing a wheelchair lift for a family member or loved one, or even for yourself, you should consider that this is not one of those things where you would be better off with the least expensive version. You can find inexpensive models that are new, but choosing a used lift has many problems in itself. To ensure your safety, or the safety of your loved one, consider the purchase decision again, and weight the pros and cons of a new lift versus a used one. Chances are you will see that a new lift is not that much more expensive, and the fact of knowing that you and your loved one are safe should make up the monetary difference.

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Euroscooters asked:

Wheelchairs are relatively simple when compared to mobility scooters and powerchairs. However, there are still some important factors that need to be taken into consideration when choosing a wheelchair.

Different people will have different requirements for their wheelchair. For example, somebody who uses a wheelchair all the time will need a different type of wheelchair to someone who keeps one at home for occasional use by a relative.

Self propelling wheelchairs have large rear wheels and are usually pushed by the user although these wheelchairs can also be pushed by an attendant. Small rear wheeled models are called transit wheelchairs, and need to be pushed by an attendant.

As people are different sizes, wheelchairs are available with different seat widths and it is important that the seat is the right size, as the amount of comfort and support that the wheelchair can provide is dependant on it being the correct size.

Modern wheelchairs can be easily folded along the length of the wheelchair, so that the sides and handles are pushed together. Some wheelchairs have a folding back, which helps to reduce the size of the folded wheelchair. Most self propelled and transit models have quick release wheels which makes transportation easier. The leg rest can often also be removed. The heavier a wheelchair is, the heavier it will be to push, and the more difficult it will be to put in and take out of a car. Aluminium wheelchairs are lighter than steel wheelchairs but a little more expensive, but the weight difference when pushing or transporting the wheelchair will make up for the difference in price.

Some models of wheelchair are highly configurable, and the size and type of rear wheels, front castors and arm rests can be specified so that the wheelchair meets the exact needs of the user. Self propelled wheelchairs often have height adjustable rear wheels which means that the wheels can be fitted in the optimum position for the user. Having the wheels in the best position means that each time the user pushes, the wheelchair travels as far as possible. This is not as important for a self propelled wheelchair that will be pushed by an attendant.

Most wheelchairs have removable armrests so that transferring to and from the wheelchair is much easier. Some wheelchairs also have height adjustable armrests so that the most comfortable and supportive position can be easily found. Adjustable leg rests are found on most models, and also ensure that the user is in the most comfortable position. Anti tip wheels are fitted as standard on some wheelchairs and provide extra security when going over obstacles such as curbs.

A motor is available that will turn most traditional wheelchairs into an attendant controlled powerchair. This can be of real benefit if the terrain is rough or hilly. Because the motor does most of the work, the attendant doesn't have to push as hard. The wheelchair power pack has a range of around 10 miles, and is ideal for both long and short journeys. If required, the power pack can be removed quickly and easily, and transferred to a different wheelchair.

A wheelchair can provide health benefits and can help to bring back or maintain independence, and is be easy to operate and transport.

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Peter Gitundu asked:

Rivalry, variety, independence, choice and many others are all observable facts experienced by all industry productions including the wheelchair and mobility industries. Buying of equipment for or by the handicapped is not done just orally; he or she has to be informed so as to be able to make the right decision. 

Steadfast information on the equipments is not readily available for all but for the lucky enough may have admission to a reliable source of the information or a counselor. The expense of the wheelchair may also lead the handicapped to think on other alternatives and also it must congregate the minimum obligation for the particular individual. Some handicaps may be fortunate to get donors or institutions such as churches that will purchase for them the chair. The only disadvantage with the donations is that sometimes one can get completely different thing from what he/she expected that is getting a mismatch either the chair being small or to big or even very heavy. 

Wheelchairs are no longer heavy and difficult to control, they are lighter, easier to use and more fast. The chairs of this generation are using computer technology and offers better support for a person’s back, head, neck and legs. They also come with safety features such as automatic brakes and anti-tipping devices. There is also the power wheelchair that has many merits needed by the handicapped. Electronic controllers helps one to drive smoothly, brake easily and make the chair move with the touch of a hand or even by puffing on a special straw. Some hand controllers are like joysticks used to play raster games and are easy to maneuver. The only disadvantage is that to get a chair like these a buyer has to part with a large sum of money which even others might not have.

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Richard Warren asked:


As promised in my previous blog “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up” I discussed the importance of having a safe and comfortable bathroom for seniors in the family or someone suffering from a disability.  I took the first shot at the problem by discussing how you can change a bathroom with out major renovations and most importantly without breaking the family budget, a budget that is probably already taxed to the maximum if you are a senior, disabled or family trying to care for someone in that situation.

Now lets discuss pulling out all the stops. You’ve got unlimited funds and talent and need to do it all right.  To accomplish this feat you may as well decide to tear the old bathroom back to the bare studs.

1.       Structurally things that will have to be done include widening the entrance door to a width that will accommodate a wheel chair or someone with a walker. The average wheelchair is 24” to 27” wide so a handicapped door should be at least 32” wide jamb to jamb. The old door will have to come out, a wider framing installed and a new wider door assembly purchased and installed.

2.       The next most important  item in the handicapped access bathroom would be to install either a walk in tub with a door or a roll in shower with a flat sill. The walk in tubs are becoming more popular for their ease of entry and comfort. These tubs are deep and have a swing open door that seals up tight once you’re in and allows for the tub to fill. These tubs can also be purchase with whirlpool options which can provide additional therapy and comfort for someone suffering from maladies. A simpler option would be to tile the entire area where the old tub was from side to side and floor to ceiling with no sill and a slope front to back to allow for easy wheelchair access and proper drainage. These showers are usually supplemented with a shower curtain but there are more decorative doors available for privacy but you must be certain the door installed is made of safety glass or lexan to protect from any possible shatter glass. Remember a person with a walker or wheelchair cannot always be well balanced.

3.       I discussed in the other blog the replacement  of the existing toilet with a new one with an elongated bowl and at the recommended ADA height of 17” to 19”. I have these in my home and although they male all the difference in the world to me you would be surprised at how many guests comment positively on the height having never noticed or experienced one in a private home. These can be found reasonably priced at very little more cost wise than a standard toilet. They are money well invested.

4.       When installing a new vanity you will want to consider either a unit at wheelchair height (lower than the normal vanity) which should be no lower than 29” from the bottom of the counter top to the floor and no more than 34” maximum from the top to the floor. If this height will interfere with other family members multiple height vanities can be found with a lower and higher sections to accommodate all family members. You may also want to look into faucets that are easily turned on and off by someone disabled. Single handled models with large easy to grip handles work best.

5.       You should also consider the height of all ancillary hardware in the bathroom. Toilet paper holders, towel bars, soap dishes light switches door knobs etc should all be adjusted to a comfortable height for the disabled.

6.       New floor surfaces should be of a non-skid variety, easily cleaned and well drained. While you have the bathroom gutted you may want to install a floor drain for easier cleaning. Accidents do happen and a floor drain can make your job disinfecting and cleaning a much easier task.

7.       Grab bars should be installed near the toilet, by the entrance and inside the shower/tub . Fir these grab bars to be safe please note that they MUST be attached to the wall studs. You cannot depend on expanders or “molly” bolts to give you the strength to hold a person up.

8.       Last but not least, as provided by all electrical codes today, any electrical outlet within reach of a sink or tub must be wired to a GFCI. These are safety circuits which prevent accidental electrocution.  If your home is older it may very well not have those in place.

Hopefully this has given you some ideas as to what you can plan on needing for your senior years. If you are building new construction from scratch and feel that you may stay in your new home for a time extending into your senior years it is a good idea to plan some of these adaptations into at least one of your bathrooms.



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anthonyrobbins asked:

Wheelchair lifts are the best options that will help free you from mobility barriers. Physical disability and old age are factors that contribute to lack of mobility. Without a wheel chair lift, most of the aged and the physically challenged will have to depend on caretakers to reach the different floors of their house or office for their basic needs. The presence of caretakers constantly at one’s side is an intrusion into individual privacy. Therefore, physically disabled people consider wheelchair lifts a real blessing.

Nowadays you can purchase different models of wheel chair lifts with a variety of value added features depending on the needs of the users. As the manner of using the lift differs in residential and commercial buildings, different models are available for residential and commercial purposes.

Wheelchair stair lifts are commonly used in residences where there are old or disabled family members. As there are houses with straight and curved stairways, straight stair lifts and curved stair lifts are available in the market. Most of these stair lifts are provided with safety measures to ensure the safety and comfort of the users. Some stair lift models are provided with obstruction sensors. These sensors detect obstructions on the path of the lift and avoid damages. Most of these stair lifts are provided with rechargeable batteries. Therefore these lifts can be used even at the time of power failures. Hydraulic wheelchair lifts are also available in the market. Hydraulic lifts are more expensive than electric lifts.

Vertical platform lifts are used to move along a straight stairway. These lifts normally have a lifting capacity of 750 lb or 340 kg and are available in different colors to suit the interiors of homes and workplaces. Most of the reputable vertical platform lift manufacturers provide 1-2 year warranty for the main parts of the lift.

Automobile wheelchair lifts are helpful for physically challenged persons to get in and out of vehicles without much effort. There are many branded companies such as Bruno, ThyssenKrupp Access, and Savaria Concord who provide quality vertical lifts. These companies have dealers in major locations of the country. The dealers are provided with qualified technicians to offer quality wheel chair lift installation and maintenance services for the lifts.

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Adam Hefner asked:

A manual wheelchair is an excellent solution for anyone whose physical problem, injury, or illness affects only their ability to walk but not their physical condition in general. People with mobility problems caused by other conditions may require extra help in order to remain mobile and independent. These people may require motorized wheelchairs, scooters, or power-base chairs.

Motorized wheelchairs come in three basic designs: power wheelchairs, motorized versions of manual wheelchairs, power-base wheelchairs, heavier wheel bases with a mounted chair, and scooters, a platform with a motor and chair in back and a steering mechanism in front.

A physical therapist or doctor can help you decide what kind of mobility device you should use if your physical condition includes a lack of muscle strength, motor skills, or coordination which lowers your mobility. If you are currently in physical condition to walk short distances you can use a power scooter for longer distances, but if your doctor thinks your condition may worsen in the future, you may want to get a power wheelchair now instead of later. Power wheelchairs are more compact and easier to use at home, do not require strength or motor ability to operate, and without the platform and steering apparatus, you can sit in a power wheelchair as easily as in any other chair.

Not being able to easily get in and out of a power scooter is a good reason to get a power wheelchair. Power-base wheelchairs and scooters have similar seating options, with seats resembling car driver seats or "pilot seats", or seats which resemble office seats. Because you don't have to step up onto a platform, a power wheelchair can be a better option than a power scooter even if you are capable of walking with a cane or walker but need a motorized device for longer distances. Comfortable recliners are also available with an electric lift for people who have trouble standing from a sitting position. The chair pushes you forward to a standing position, where you can then walk with a cane or walker.

If you don't have any trouble sitting and standing and you have the necessary arm strength and coordination but due to your physical condition cannot walk extended distances or push yourself in a manual wheelchair, a power scooter may be right for you. The steering apparatus requires some arm mobility, but if necessary you can buy a model designed to be operated with one hand. If you have no arm mobility, a power wheelchair can be operated with minimal hand strength and coordination. Weight can be a factor for some wheelchair or scooter users, but heavy duty models are available. Heavy duty power-base wheelchairs can be purchased which carry more than 600 pounds.

Talk to your doctor about your mobility situation and what you can do to keep moving. Just about any mobility problem can be solved with motorized wheelchairs, scooters, and power-based wheelchairs.

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