Health Network News

One of the worst tragedies in life is the loss of one’s ability to walk. It happens to most of us at one period in our lifetimes, especially if we grow old enough to have various health problems. Also, those who are unfortunate enough to have accidents are especially prone to losing their mobility.

This is, indeed, a tragic time in life. Walking to where you like to go might seem like a mundane experience for most of us. But to those who have lost this ability, the want to go somewhere becomes more emphasized, and the inability to do so makes things increasingly frustrating. The worst part about it is that with the loss of mobility also comes the loss of freedom. Sometimes it can be restored in a few months time, but there are times when it can’t. Still, you must not lose hope. It’s not the end of everything. You can buy a wheelchair. It won’t restore your freedom entirely, but it’s infinitely much better than nothing.

First, though, you have to determine exactly what type of wheelchair you need.

Manual Wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs are those that can be propelled by mechanical means. Mainly, this type of wheelchair is utilized when the person still has control of both his arms and has sufficient strength in them to move the wheels and propel himself forward or backward. Or, if the person has a caregiver who can move the wheelchair when needed, then the manual wheelchair is preferable. What’s good about it is that it’s quite affordable and it can aid the person maintain strong muscles, at least in the arms.

Electric-powered Wheelchairs

Electric-powered wheelchairs, on the other hand, are wheelchairs that are propelled through the power of electricity. Commonly, this is used for old people and for those who cannot utilize their arms for propulsion. They’re also used by those who have heart problems. Its speed and direction can usually be controlled by the utilization of a joystick. Those who are unable to use a joystick, however, have alternatives such as chin control. Also, electric-powered wheelchairs are sometimes designed for indoor use solely or for outdoor use. But it’s usually better to buy the one intended as both an electric-powered wheelchairs can be very costly. Luckily, those who truly need one but cannot buy an electronic wheelchair can be given one by different organizations.