Independence in mobility is one of the most important measures of quality of life for people with disabilities. Wheelchairs—whether powered or manual—provide nearly 2.7 million people with the freedom to get around who would otherwise be unable or have difficulty doing so. The truth of the matter is that shopping for the best wheelchair for yourself or a loved one can be overwhelming. After all, there are dozens of varieties to choose from, and features abound.
One of the first questions to ask when shopping for a wheelchair is whether you need a manual or a power one. People with less disability, who are more active, or those with a temporary injury may prefer manual wheelchairs, while those with very limited abilities, or who require extra assistance, may benefit from an electric wheelchair. However, other features must also be taken into consideration, such as the chair’s weight, foldability, maneuverability and comfort.
