Transport Wheelchair, Portable Wheelchair

It is estimated that at least 25 million people have mobility problems, and out of these, about 500,000 use a wheelchair. A variety of disabilities can cause people to require a wheelchair, such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, muscular dystrophy, arthritis, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, or polio. A wheelchair can provide mobility for those with muscle weakness, paralysis, lack of coordination, nerve damage, or stiffness of joints. Wheelchairs come in many shapes and sizes which can be adapted to an individual’s lifestyle. They range from basic utility models for use at home and while traveling, to custom-designed models for sports activities. Deciding to use a wheelchair can be a difficult decision, but the lack of mobility can prevent a person from doing enjoyable activities. Many use a wheelchair as a back-up or for long outings, even though they continue to walk when comfortable and able to do so.

What is a Transport Wheelchair?

A transport wheelchair is used to carry an individual safely, and they are commonly used in a clinic or hospital setting. A person needing a transport wheelchair may or may not be able to walk by themselves. In a hospital, it can be used to take a person to different places within the facility, such as when testing or therapy is needed. For in-home use, a transport wheelchair can make it possible for a person to go to the doctor’s office for appointments, or grocery shopping.

A transport wheelchair is lightweight, can be easily handled, and only weighs around 20 pounds. It has four small wheels so it is easy to push around, and features foot holders for added comfort. A transport wheelchair generally has handles at the top of the chair so the caregiver can push it easier. Typically, this type of wheelchair only has basic features, but some are equipped with other functions. The brakes on a transport wheelchair are sometimes on the chair handles so the caregiver can have full control over it. Some models can be large enough to accommodate a person who has a larger stature, also.

What is a Travel Wheelchair?

It is important to make travel as easy as possible for someone who is disabled, and traveling with a wheelchair can be difficult. A special travel wheelchair can benefit a person who needs to use a wheelchair, and this type is foldable, lightweight, and easily portable. A travel wheelchair can be much more convenient to transport, store, and set up than a standard model, making travel less stressful and more enjoyable.

There are many different types of wheelchairs that fold up, but a travel wheelchair offers additional highlights. Many models not only flatten from side to side like a standard wheelchair, they also fold up like a portable stroller. Their sides press inward and they fold together front and back into a cylinder shape. The footrests and handles often fold to the side, and the entire chair should end up compacted in both width and depth. Many models come with a special bag for storage, which can help prevent the wheelchair from getting damaged or scuffed in a trunk. Some people who weigh very little might be able to use a light wheelchair on a regular basis. But most people will want a standard chair for daily use and utilize a travel wheelchair when going long distances, or when getting in and out of a vehicle regularly for errands. A travel wheelchair can come in a variety of colors, styles, and sizes, and many accessories can be added to them depending on personal preference.

How do I Choose the Best Transport Wheelchair?

There are a few factors to consider when choosing a transport wheelchair. One of the most popular types of lightweight wheelchairs is the rigid kind because it is durable and unencumbered by the hardware that is usually necessary in the typical folding wheelchair. If acquiring the lightest weight wheelchair is an absolute necessity, titanium may be the best choice. If portability is necessary, a lightweight foldable wheelchair should be considered.

Since rigid lightweight wheelchairs are the most popular, there is a large selection available. They often begin at about 14 pounds and most are suitable for everyday use. Even though they are lightweight, they normally include the basics, such as armrests that can fold up, along with adjustable backrests and seat heights. Therefore, this kind of lightweight wheelchair is often considered both comfortable and lightweight.

The lightest wheelchair available is the titanium kind. Most titanium wheelchairs start at about 10 pounds, even though they are known as one of the most durable types available. Also, this type typically has superior shock-absorption and comes in either folding or rigid styles. They tend to cost more than a typical lightweight wheelchair, but they enable a person to get around quickly in a durable chair that additionally lends itself to easier travel.

If portability is a requirement, having a foldable light wheelchair that fits into a car easily can be important. Foldable wheelchairs usually feature the same benefits as rigid chairs, such as leg rests that swing away easily, but are generally easier to transport. Because the folding mechanism may add some weight, some configurations are often not as light as the rigid wheelchair designs. This type of light wheelchair normally begins at about 18 pounds, though many are closer to 25 pounds.

Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO

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