Choosing a wheelchair

[Micro]

I'm 66, many years of Fibro and extreme back pain. I'm not getting 'out'. I have viewed many online wheelchairs but have no idea which to choose......it is for putting in the car, use ; to help me get round parks or supermarkets, any where. I am under 7stone.

Grateful for any suggestions !

[Hidden]

hi micro i am not an expert on wheel chairs. I knew that i couldnt have a scooter because of the pain in my arms and back same goes for a self propelled. Carer driven was no good due to hubbys health so we went for a power chair it is great just what i want . the draw back is the weight when lifting it in and out of the car. A problem that we are now working on

Some of the newer chairs are lighter and you can get a winch in the car to do the lifting.

Some one else on the forum will be able to tell you were to go for expert help.

sue

[rosewine]

Have you asked whether you could get a wheelchair on the NHS? It sounds as though it would be an absolute lifeline for you. Remember that most big supermarkets now have wheelchairs and mobility scooters that you can use for free and the big shopping centres normally have mobility centres where wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be hired for a small charge.

Let us know how you get on and what decisions you come to.xx

[Ian123 in reply to rosewine]

Most hospitals have a wheelchair services department that assesses which wheelchair would be best but most have very long waiting lists. If you decide on buying one then try before you buy is the best advice I can offer, see if it will do the things you want.

[TheAuthor]

From personal experience, (my wife is in a wheelchair due to MS), I would say the lighter the wheelchair the better. it is easy to use a wheelchair in a store or a shopping centre whereby the surfaces are smooth but outside the pavements can become an obstacle course.

I want to sincerely wish you all the best of luck with choosing your chair.

Ken