Over the years wheelchair technology has improved and as technology advances so will the design and manufacture of wheelchairs and other assistive technologies. Those successful in gaining funding to develop wheelchair technology and design such as New Zealand’s very own Access-able and Enable, along with a customer base fortunate enough to afford or qualify for assistance with purchase of new concepts, improve the lives of wheelchair users.
Every day, people with disabilities requiring a wheelchair rely on “unfriendly” or “unsuitable” chairs designed for the ‘standard’ person. This most commonly occurs in hospitals. Custom equipment specifically suited to the client’s needs, body and disability is the approach that is taken nowadays to facilitate independence.
Manual VS Power chair
Here is a photo of an old fashioned manual wheelchair commonly used in hospital settings for patients and their caregivers
Here is a photo of an Invacare Solara 3G tilt-in-space wheelchair which is a commonly prescribed chair for clients who require manual seating with tilt-in-space. This type of chair simplifies accessibility and facilitates support and rest
Currently the spotlight is on powered mobility as new and improved technology is rapidly evolving and being advertised at road shows, equipment stores etc. Here is a photo of an Invacare TDX series power chair that is commonly provided for users for its accessibility and range of performance enhancing features
Invacare New Zealand. (2012). Product directory. Retrieved 30 July 2012 from: http://www.invacare.co.nz/index.cfm/1,78,0,33,html/Product-Directory
Love your blog Laura it has really helped my understanding of wheelchairs! Do you have a specific brand of wheelchair that you would use with clients and why would you use that brand?
ReplyDeleteThanks Hayley that's good to hear! I really recommend invacare's TDX series of power chairs. I came across them a lot on my placement and I like that they each have individual features that can be quite easily changed or adapted to suit each individual. This is especially important for clients with complex needs.
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