New wheelchair - where to look

[Lili986]

Hi. I have my standard manual wheelchair from the NHS but I would like to buy an electric wheelchair as I get tired very quickly and dependent on others to push my wheelchair long distances. I want an electric wheelchair that can fit into a car boot as I am a casual user. My Occupational Therapist said she cannot refer me to NHS wheelchair services as I don't fit their criteria. I don't know anything about wheelchairs and need advice what’s suitable for me. How did you get a wheelchair assessment and who did you go to for further information?

[smiling1]

Sometimes a physiotherapist can help. Ask your GP if there's a neurology-physiotherapist. If not, then any physio might be able to help.

[Lili986 in reply to smiling1]

Thank you. I will ask my physiotherapist. She has observed me closer and knows me better.

[Veteran250 in reply to Lili986]

Hi Lili….. I have an electric wheelchair, some things to consider, electric wheelchairs are very heavy, too heavy to lift into car boot, you will need a hoist fitted into your boot, then, is your car boot big enough for wheelchair, you might need a bigger car, and insurance, in case you run into someone in your wheelchair, and of course theft or damage……sorry to put a downer on your plans, but you need to consider these things….. good luck🙂

[Lili986 in reply to Veteran250]

Thank you. I will have to think about these things. I am currently a casual user but I will think about these things in the long term.

[tedjohnson]

There are folding chairs on the market which go in the boot of most cars I bought one on eBay and it is first class eBay gives a good guarantee but I would try a shop first to see what is on the market Take your time as obviously they are salesmen/women Good luck Ted

[Lili986 in reply to tedjohnson]

Thank you. I will look into them and also ask my physiotherapist what is most suitable for me .

[LBenyon]

these replys are very revelant to me as im thinking along the same lines as you ,good luck Lorraine😀

[Lili986 in reply to LBenyon]

Thank you! Hope you're having more luck than me!

[Jenandbeth]

We bought a power-pack to fit to the NHS chair. It is a bit cumbersome but has made a huge difference and allowed Beth to access terrain that she wouldn't have been able to otherwise. It's also saved my poor knees and back. I'm sure it can be fitted for wheelchair user control as well as carer control. Our local mobility shop advised on this and fitted it!

Wheelchair power pack

[Lili986 in reply to Jenandbeth]

I was looking at that. I'm glad it's working for you! I will ask mobility shops if they can adapt my manual wheelchair.

[Jenandbeth]

Hope it works for you, it's been defo worth it for us!