As we get older, it can be hard to accept that while it is natural, our body is not what it used to be before. Our reaction slows down, and our mobility gets limited, indicating the need for mobility assistance.
If you are considering any personal mobility aids (PMAs), and in this case, a wheelchair, do expect some time to get used to it, especially if you or your loved ones have not touched it before. However, one fundamental method to speed up that process is to get the right-sized wheelchair. It is imperative that you measure the user, whether yourself or your loved one, ensuring that you get the correct fit.
Getting a wheelchair that is either too small or too big can lead to many discomforts and even ergonomic issues. In this guide, we will walk you through (no pun intended) some steps to taking accurate wheelchair measurements.
Step 1: Measure your seat width
The seat width refers to the distance between your hips’ or thighs’ widest point while in a sitting position. To measure the distance accurately, sit on a flat surface, using a measuring tape to measure the distance between the outside of your thighs and hips. Then add at most two inches to the measurement, and that should be how wide your wheelchair seat should be.
Step 2: Measure your seat depth
The seat depth refers to the distance between the back of your knees and the back of your buttocks while in a sitting position. To measure the distance accurately, sit on a flat surface with your back against the wall, using a measuring tape to measure the distance from the back of your knees to the wall. Then add at most two inches to the measurement, and that should be how deep your wheelchair seat should be.
Step 3: Measure your back height
The back height refers to the distance between the top of your shoulders and your seat. To measure the height accurately, sit on a flat surface with your back against the wall, using a measuring tape to measure the distance from the top of your shoulders to the floor. That measurement indicates how high your backrest should be.
Step 4: Measure your footrest length
Should you be considering getting a wheelchair with footrests, you will need to make sure it accommodates the size of your feet to avoid your legs getting tired and strained. All you need to do is to know your lower leg’s length by measuring the distance between the sole of your feet and the back of your knees. Then add at most two inches to the measurement, and that should be how long your footrests should be.
Step 5: Measure your doorways
In addition to knowing your measurement, it is vital to measure the width of your doorways to allow your potential wheelchair to fit in your house.
Step 6: Consult a professional
With the measurements you have with you, you will get a better understanding of the right-sized wheelchair you are looking for. It is crucial to seek professional advice and maybe test it for yourself before purchasing it. At Falcon Mobility, our team of professionals are experienced and knowledgeable to help advise you on the best-suited wheelchair for your requirements. Head over to our physical store at Paya Lebar to find out more. More details are in the link below.
Conclusion
Ensuring accurate measurements of yourself enables you to get the best-fitted wheelchair, ensuring you a healthy and comfortable use. A properly-fitted wheelchair makes all the difference in ensuring the quality, mobility, and comfort of your wheelchair journey. For more information on our products and services, head over to https://www.falconmobility.my/ to find out more!