For anyone who has to depend on a mobility device, they are missing out on some of their regular freedoms. This can negatively impact seniors but more so children. With the number of mobility options fairly limited, a pediatric wheelchair should be seriously considered for providing mobility for kids.
If you are looking at buying a used wheelchair, you need to take a few things into consideration. If your child needs a mobility device for any reason, your doctor will help you narrow down the choices for your child. They will carefully examine your child and recommend the appropriate wheelchair for their needs.
Doctor Prescribed
The first thing the doctor will look at is the posture and seating needs of the child. If the child has a decreased or no ability to hold, your doctor will recommend an appropriate wheelchair. Doctors will make sure the child is comfortable and safe and that the proper cushion is being used.
Will a switch or a joystick work for your child’s needs? This is important to determine when selecting the chair’s control system. There a variety of pediatric wheelchair available. Your doctor can help you narrow down your choices and point you in the direction of the most appropriate wheelchair for your child.
Pediatric Chairs are Adjustable in Some Cases
These kinds of chairs come with various position settings that allow your child to move unrestricted. These chairs also come with arm, leg and foot rest grown extensions which can be adjusted as your child grows.
Your child should also play an active role in the selection of their wheelchair. You will need to think about the wheel drive and speed of the chair and how it fits in with the lifestyle of your child.
Rear Wheel vs Front Wheel Drive
Each wheel drive has pros and cons. Rear wheel drive wheelchairs have good speed but a much larger turning radius, not good for small spaces. Front wheel drive wheelchair have similar speed and a better turning radius.
The mid-wheel drive wheelchairs have the best turning radius but they are not as fast as the front or rear wheel drives. The tires and battery life also have to be considered in the final decision.
Your child’s wheelchair should also be easily transportable for one place to the next. This will usually depend on the frame type of the wheelchair and how easy it is to store when not in use.
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