Personal mobility equipment needs to be maintained properly. Special care is required for wheelchairs because this is the equipment you rely on the most. Knowing how to properly care for your wheelchair will not only allow you to use it for a long time, more importantly wheelchair maintenance ensures that it will not cause you injuries.

Because wheelchairs can be costly, it is wise for you to give it special care. Should any wheelchair problems arise, you will probably be the first person to notice it. For this reason, it is imperative for you to know what to do or at least who to ask for help when parts need to be fixed or replaced. Manual wheelchairs are easier to maintain and may be cared for using common tools whereas electric wheelchairs need professional attention.

You should have a regular routine for preventive wheelchair maintenance. Use a rag or some form of cloth to clean your wheelchair on a regular basis. Some wheelchair users use car wax to make the task of cleaning the frame easier. Inspecting your wheelchair for possible day to day damage should be part of your routine. For electric wheelchairs, it is important to test the brakes and anti-rollback functions from on a regular basis. Furthermore, it is important to regularly check parts that may need adjustments. For example, all nuts and bolts must be secure at all times so it is recommended that they are tightened at least once a month.

For those with limited upper-body functions, assistance from others to perform these regular maintenance tasks may be important.

Most wheelchairs come with wheelchair guides or manuals, it is important to read through these before performing maintenance tasks. The manual should inform its reader about warranty policies, wheelchair usage and wheelchair maintenance. The guide should also contain instructions on how to properly care for your wheelchair and which tools should be used when maintaining the wheelchair.

Having a set of tools specifically for your wheelchair will prove to be a worthwhile investment as they may lower your maintenance costs in the long run. Essentials include different wrenches, maybe a set of Allen wrenches, a spoke wrench, and an adjustable wrench. Screwdrivers and repair kits may also be practical. Having them in one place may also be essential in case an emergency arises.

Proper care and maintenance will surely make you feel more secure about using your wheelchair. Although inspecting and fixing it yourself may do the trick, it is still important to have an expert examine it from time to time.

Physically disabled individuals who were born with their condition may have already become used to some degree of social discrimination. However, employers and the physically able public have become more progressive in thinking and their attitude towards the physically disabled.

This has led to better accommodation and considerations allowing wheelchair users to be more mobile and become more independent. Although these changes have taken place, it can still become quite hard for the disabled to move around in many public areas. For this reason, assistive devices including electric wheelchairs have become necessities.

Although the difficulties of physically disabled individuals have been acknowledged, it is difficult to understand the financial damage it can cause unless it is personaly experienced by the person him/herself or his/her family. With necessities that include mobility scooters, electric wheelchairs, wheelchair ramps, special furniture, walking aids, specific personal care goods, having a physical disability can easily cost anyone a fortune. None of these are considered luxury goods and they are all costs physically disabled individuals incur.

Although financial assistance may be available, the assistance often cannot cover the total cost of goods physically disabled individuals require. Because many do not have personal finances to cover all expenses, many have had to decide on having one necessity over another. Families have also had to make certain sacrifices to make the budget fit. This may not be easy especially if the physically disabled in the family quickly grow out of their assistive devices or if they like to enhance their lives through sports that can cause rapid wear and tear to their equipment and quickly need replacements.

There are assistive devices that allow life to become easier. Because of the costs involved, many have no choice but to make do with what they have. In the case of temporarily disabled individuals, many feel as if they are better off suffering than taking such a huge financial hit for assistive devices that they are not sure they will be using for very long. Of course this is not an ideal situation. When it comes to the mobility needs of individuals, all should have enough money to make their lives easier to live.

Because of the high costs involved, many physically disabled individuals have learned to purchase items in bulk. For all obvious reasons, this involves lower costs than if they would purchase in retail. Since they are able to save a considerable amount of money, they are able to afford more and better assistive devices. Others have even chosen to purchase seconhand mobility devives especially when their need involves something very pricey. This can be a good decision but in most cases the devices are not built or designed for the individuals needs and specifications.

Those that have even had to deal with extensive financial strain are families who have disabled children. The reason for incurring more costs is that the children quickly grow out of their assistive devices and they therefore cannot have long term use of what they currently have. Even those who are temporarily disabled find themselves without any use of high-priced items they bought for recovery simply because their needs were only temporary.

Assistive devices are often suited to their users and their environment, many who have the need to change residences find that their devices no longer fit in their new home. This has led to a wide selection of quality secondhand products that many others may still have use for. Secondhand mobility products can be purchased at much lower prices and the benefit they will get will be the same as if they purchased brand new goods.

When looking to purchase secondhand mobility products, ask questions about its previous owners to better evaluate the condition of the product and to evaluate if the previous owner had a similiar ailment as yourself. Such questions should involve how it was previously used, whether warranties still apply, what services have been made, and what parts have been replaced.

When buying assistive devices, whether new or secondhand, it is always better to avoid rushing into a purchase so as to better evaluate the product and others that are available in the market. Taking time when purchasing a secondhand mobility product can pay off as you can research the items and you may well find exactly the product that suits all of your requirements at a cheaper price.

Although being physically disabled can be costly, many options have allowed individuals to lessen the financial strains. Local foundations, government grants, and insurance covers also help in a significant manner.

Those who are or have been physically disabled will surely understand how important it is for those with mobility needs to have their own wheelchairs. However, many of those who really need wheelchairs often do not have the financial capability to purchase one on their own. For this reason, wheelchair donations have become more and more important.

In todays society organisations around the globe have been exerting much effort to allow individuals with physical disabilities to have access to their own wheelchair. These people have been very grateful as they could not have such privileges if not for the organisations that were willing to lend a hand.

By lending a hand through direct wheelchair donations or providing even a little amount of cash, you can be sure to enhance someone's life somewhere around the world.

There is an estimated figure of 100 million physically disabled individuals around the globe. The causes include :

• Birth defects
• Accidents
• Diseases
• War Injuries
• or old age

Everyday adults and children alike loose limbs because of landmines and other explosive devices left behind from war. A report published by the World Health Organisation stated that over 29,000 individuals are injured by landmines each year. The report also noted that this estimate only comes from reported cases.

No matter how people become disabled, they should not be denied of their right to go where they please and they all should have access to wheelchairs of their own. The greatest need for wheelchairs is in developing countries where this need is also expected to increase by 22% over the coming decade. In these areas where few have the financial capability to buy wheelchairs, many have become bedridden.

Others also use their arms to carry their weight and drag their bodies across the floor. These people have the right to their mobility no matter what their physical conditions may be. Though they cannot enjoy that right on their own, people like you can help them. There are multiple international organisations that accept donations and distribute wheelchairs all across the globe. These foundations pool donations and use it to purchase and deliver wheelchairs in bulk.

There are also other non-profit organisations that provide similar services. In contrast to the services that the Wheelchair Foundations provide, some organisations allow distribution of wheelchairs to individuals. These groups use donations to refurbish used wheelchairs and give each one to those in need.

All these non-profit organisations and many others out there need your help so they can continue to provide aid to those in need. While you may also choose to help the individuals in your immediate environment, donating to such organisations will help those in need in a larger scale.

Folding wheelchairs are perfect for physically disabled individuals. These types of wheelchairs can be folded for easy transportation making it simpler for its users to travel. Among the significant benefits of folding wheelchairs is that they can be transported without having to remove its wheels.

Folding wheelchairs come in many different varieties and some are even designed especially for patients in hospitals or in nursing homes.

Wheelchairs, in general, come in many forms. There are the lightweight, ultra-light, heavy-duty, stroller, and even folding wheelchairs. Today, a wide range of folding wheelchairs are available and many of them are affordable. Although people have the option to customise their own wheelchairs, the standard features include handgrips made of plastic, upholstered seating and backrests, armrests with padding, front caster outriggers, and solid tyres.

People can also choose to have air-supported backrests, integrated seat sling straps, and even caster angles. Seats, backrests, and armrests can even be adjustable according to the height of the user. The axles can also be variable with quick-release functions for better maneuverability. When it comes to the wheelchairs footrests, users can opt for either swing-aways or lift-offs. Side guards can either be made of fabric or solid material.

When it comes to the frame, users can choose from either anodized or polished material that may even come with customised upholstery. Extra-wide seats can even be made-to-order. For stroller-type foldable wheelchairs, head wings that are padded, seat depth with snap buttons, and wedges made of foam can be ordered.

Prices are heavily dependent on the type of folding wheelchair to be purchased. Although they may sometimes be pricey, buyers can get good deals from manufacturers that offer online services, zero shipping costs, and money-back guarantees.

For quite a while now, shower chairs have existed to aid the elderly and those who have physical disabilities. Since they were introduced, they have continued to help people gain their independence by requiring little or no assistance when taking showers. Whether people have mobility needs due to physical disabilities, lack of balance, or debilitating diseases, shower chairs have become an appealing option. In today's society the trend to have large or oversized bathrooms has allowed further development of shower chairs.

Some of the most favoured shower chairs are made of strong plastic as these are most economical. This type of shower chair is lightweight, durable, and strong. Many plastic shower seats are foldable and easy to store. Making sure that the shower chairs are installed or placed securely can assure you of both safety and convenience. There are shower chairs that are more like stools while others feature including support for the back. Although shower chairs with backrests often take up more space they are preferred by those who have back problems.

When choosing a shower chair you need to evaluate your needs to decide on which type would suit you best. Rubberized contacts or other non-slip material should be used on the bottom of the chair's legs to ensure your safety. However, there are other things to consider, for instance, you may want a shower chair with padding if you don't feel too comfortable sitting on hard surfaces for the length of time it takes for you to shower. These padded shower chairs use a vinyl cover due to its water-resistant property.

Some shower chairs feature wheels to accommodate those with mobility problems. For added safety, some shower chairs have features that lock the wheels to make it stationary while in the shower whereas others can be converted into stools when the wheels are not needed. This allows you to roll into the shower and sit comfortably while you bathe.

Shower chairs may range in price depending on the make and model you wish to purchase. While some can cost around £25, others can cost as much as a few hundred pounds. Furthermore, there are water-resistant wheelchairs that can be used both in and out of the shower allowing you to purchase one mobility product for use wherever you may want to go.

Because of the existence of shower chairs, disabled people require little or no assistance when showering. The usage of these products has also allowed the elderly to avoid nursing homes which not only allows them to stay in their own home but keep their independence and save much money as well.

Although the idea of shower chairs may sound trivial, these continue to change the lives of people who have come to be more independent individuals. They can now feel more dignified as they gain the ability to bathe themselves. Furthermore, it has allowed them more privacy and more time by themselves.

Many people may find their movement restricted sometime in their lives. As our bodies weaken with age, we experience increasing loss of strength in our limbs and begin walking less and less efficiently as we did in youth. The young, on the other hand, could lose the power in their limbs through infirmity or accidents. Old or young, the mobility impaired stands to benefit from a mobility scooter or electric wheelchair. Both are designed to help those with limited use of their lower limbs to regain a independence they had lost.

Most people take for granted the ability with which they perform common daily tasks. When this ability is lost, a person is likely to lose confidence as well. The loss of such ability may result in psychological problems which in turn, may further complicate the person's physical state. Thus, restoring a person's mobility becomes essential, if not paramount.

For the physically challenged; the prospect of undertaking simple activities like shopping, running errands and visiting friends or relatives can be daunting without any aid. Clearly, a device which allows them to accomplish these has to be provided. In temperate climates, this may not seem as big a drawback as does in places where it can get extremely hot or dry. However, going outside for a bit of fresh air or to socialize is good even if only to lift one's spirit.

Mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs not only enable physically challenged people to make short trips by themselves, they also help resume many of their routines independently of others. Increased independence in the physically challenged eases the anxiety and pressure on their friends or loved ones. This independence ultimately restores the dignity of users of mobility scooters.

With regard to aging individuals with increasing loss of limb functionality, mobility scooters allow them to keep their independence longer. Although electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters serve the same purpose, scooters are more widely used. Electric Wheelchairs compared to mobility scooters are bulky devices which are more difficult to store in addition, the size of the wheelchair may limit access to certain areas.

Many people favor the look of scooters over the boxed-in look of wheelchairs. Beyond mere looks, the scooter's streamlined design makes its user feel less restricted or confined. Last but not least, there is a wide variety of mobility scooters to suit the specific needs and preferences of different users.

Disabled children or those with debilitating disorders do not necessarily have to be denied their right to a normal childhood. Parents must choose a wheelchair specifically for pediatrics in order to help their child experience a childhood that is as close to normal as possible. Although this task may sound simple enough, parents must first understand that there is a wide variety of pediatric wheelchairs to choose from and many factors must be considered in order to be choose the pediatric wheelchair best suited for their child.

Caring for disabled children involves carrying the child in order to transfer the child from one seat to another. This may cause back problems to both the parents and the children. To address this issue, a pediatric wheelchair that is not heavy and has detachable parts may be used. Before considering the purchase of a pediatric wheelchair, the child's lifestyle and social environment must be taken into consideration.

If parents have a specific wheelchair in mind, they should consider not only what the doctors have specified but also whether it would allow the child to be fully mobile in all day to day situations, such as school or at home.

Considerations When Buying The Wheelchair

Another issue to consider is that children quickly grow which means that they outgrow their wheelchairs. While some parents would opt for a one-size-fits-all wheelchair, some choose a pediatric wheelchair that is expandable which means that it can cater for your child as he / she grows. This is carried out by making alterations to the cross balance or even the front frame. Using this form of adjustable wheelchair, one wheelchair can last the child an average of 10 to 12 years.

Another important factor to consider is comfort. Of course, any parent would want their child to be comfortable in their wheelchair as they will be using it for long periods of time. A preferred choice is a wheelchair with a cushion that is no thicker that the width of three fingers. This way, it would be thick enough to allow for comfort yet thin enough to provide the needed leg support.

Leg support is very important and therefore, another factor to consider is having a footrest that would be at a level allowing the child's whole thigh to be supported by the seat. Should the footrest be too high, the child may feel awkward sitting for too long.

There are obviously a number of things to consider when purchasing a pediatric wheelchair that would be perfect for your child. It is not enough to choose the most costly one as this does not guarantee that it will be a worthwhile investment. Parents need to take time to go through every factor before actually choosing the wheelchair. After all, parents want what is best for their children and choosing the wheelchair best suited for the child is of prime importance.

Generally the first wheelchair any wheelchair bound individual acquires is from one of the following:

• Persons known to them and who own used wheelchairs
• Wheelchair rental companies that contract with the users insurance providers
• Medical supply stores that fulfill wheelchair prescriptions from the users doctor
• Wheelchair clinics with advice from expert occupational therapists, physical therapists or mobility consultants.

As individuals requiring mobility devices have differing medical conditions, it is a wise move for wheelchair users to consult their physicians and occupational or physical therapists before choosing their wheelchair.

Selecting a wheelchair that fits the users requirements need not be difficult. The following is a list of factors and considerations when buying a wheelchair.

All wheelchair purchases should primarily take into consideration the user's physical state. Basically consider the following:

• Gender
• Body type
• Specific physiological conditions (level of endurance, physical limitations etc.).

Other factors to consider when purchasing wheelchairs and accessories are:

• Place of use - indoor or outdoor
• Users daily activities - shopping, visiting friends or relatives, etc.
• Users mode of transportation - car, van, public transport
• Length of time the user will spend in the wheelchair
• Need of a wheelchair lift or ramp at home
• Availability of a person to assist the user with his/her wheelchair
• Where the wheelchair will be used - gravel, pavement, carpet, sand, etc.

Individual features need to be considered:

• Wheelchair Speed - if desired, an electric wheelchair rather than a manual wheelchair
• Wheelchair Colour - the users personal choice
• Joystick mounting - right or left-hand, fixed or swing-away
• Wheelchair Batteries - gel or wet
• Wheelchair Tyres - to match the conditions where the wheelchair will be used
• Wheelchair Armrests - height adjustable, removable, etc.
• Wheelchair Leg rests - swing away, elevating etc.
• Wheelchair Seat - elevating, tilt, or recline
• Wheelchair Seat cushion - gel, air or foam
• Wheelchair Accessories - drink caddies, bags, trays, etc.

A major factor that also has to be reviewed is wheelchair servicing and spare parts. If you have a problem with your wheelchair, you can get it fixed quickly and easily by purchasing from a recommended wheelchair dealer or wheelchair manufacturer.

Generally a brand name wheelchair will have client support and the wheelchair itself will always have a manufacturers guarantee.

When buying a wheelchair it is important to take all aspects into consideration as they are not cheap and the user has to spend a lot of time in it.

• Choosing the Right Paediatric Wheelchair
  There is a wide variety of paediatric wheelchairs available on the market today. Each wheelchair is made to suit the requirements of its individual user. Choosing the perfect wheelchair, especially for a child, may be difficult as there are many fac…

• The Basics of Electric Wheelchairs
  A mobile device which will facilitate a disabled or sick individual to move about is identified as a wheelchair. This mechanism resembles a chair which is mounted upon an array of wheels and is propelled either by way of electricity or manually…

• Choosing A Wheelchair Carrier
  The selection of a wheelchair carrier to fit on your automobile can be a straightforward decision once you determine what you require and the model and style which would be most advantageous to you…

• Maintaining Wheelchairs
  Because physically disabled individuals are heavily dependent on their wheelchairs, it is necessary to know how to properly maintain the wheelchair. A wheelchair is an expensive piece of equipment…

• Parts of the Wheelchair
  Here we take a look at some of the major parts of any standard wheelchair and customised wheelchairs. Each section will inform you how to make sure you have the right part on your wheelchair and why it is important to have it…

• Interacting With Wheelchair Users
  You would think that by now people in the streets know how to interact with a wheelchair user. And yet everywhere, for some inexplicable reason, the presence of a wheelchair makes non wheelchair users uncomfortable…

• Types of Wheelchair Seat Cushions
  Depending on the type of wheelchair seat cushion they can cost anything between £20 to £200. When choosing your seating requirements there are three main types of wheelchair cushions to consider…

• Purchasing Wheelchair Lift Ramps
  Wheelchair lift ramps can make the life of a wheelchair user a lot easier. The majority of wheelchair lift ramps are made of some form of durable material and can aid anyone using any kind of manual wheelchair or electric wheelchair…

• Exercising in Your Wheelchair
  To prevent muscle atrophy it is important for a wheelchair user to get the body moving. There are special exercises a wheelchair user can carry out from their wheelchair…

• Wall Guards for Wheelchair Users
  The homes of physically disabled individuals have to accommodate for the wheelchair user. Each area should be accessible for the wheelchair user and the wheelchair should be able to be used around the home without any problems…

Wheelchair accessories are not only functional they also allow physically disabled individuals to express themselves through their wheelchairs.

There is a huge array of wheelchair accessories available on the market today. Some of the most popular are:

1. Bags and other Storage Accessories:
   These are strapped onto the mobility device to allow its users to carry more personal items while also keeping organized. Most bags are made of waterproof plastic to keep items from getting when. Each also has their own means to cover the items including zippers, flaps, or Velcro.

   • Backpacks:
     Strapped onto the back of the wheelchair.

   • Saddle Bags:
     Strapped onto the wheelchair armrests.

   • Under Seat Bags:
     The bag is strapped underneath the wheelchair - also know as a seat box due to its form.

   • Packs and Pouches:
     Strapped anywhere on the wheelchair the user pleases (often used for smaller personal items).

2. Beverage Holders:
   These allow users to keep themselves hydrated while operating their mobility devices. They minimize spillage and allow users to move freely without having to worry about holding their own drinks.

   • Cup Holders:
     Often attached to the wheelchairs arm rest for easy access.

   • Hands-free Drinking Aids:
     Especially popular among wheelchair athletes. These feature special straws from which users can sip anytime.

3. Weather Protection:
   These keep the user from overexposure to intense sunlight and harsh weather.

   • Umbrellas and Canopies:
     Installed right above the head of the user for protection against sun and rain.

   • Weather Chaps:
     Keeps users from getting wet by harsh rainfall or helps them keep warm during cold weather.

4. Covering:
   Protects all parts of mobility devices and keeps them free from dirt or keeps them from getting wet.

   • General Covering:
     Covers the whole wheelchair when kept in storage.

   • Armrest and Cushion Covering:
     Covers armrests and seats much like vehicle seat covers.

   • Spoke Guards:
     Keeps rims from being damaged as well as protecting the users hands/fingers from being trapped between spokes while mobile.

5. Other Wheelchair Accessories:

   • Clothing Guards:
     Keeps the wheelchair users clothes from getting caught between the wheels. The guards also protect against mud/dirt from the wheelchair tyres.

   • Wheelchair Trays:
     There are 3 main types of trays that can be attached to the wheelchair - fixed, slide and flip. Each type provides the user with a sturdy base for eating and writing.

   • Walking Stick Holder :
     Tubing that carries the users walking stick or cane while not in use.

The accessories listed above come in different styles and designs so it is easy enough for a wheelchair user to keep their individuality while using them. There are many more wheelchair accessories in the market today and wheelchair users are sure to find what they need to modify their wheelchair to their specific needs.