Finding the right lightweight wheelchair for travel for you or your loved ones is easier said than done. With so many options available in the market, varying in brand, features, and prices, you are bound to get confused. Not anymore! We have answered some frequently asked questions regarding lightweight portable wheelchairs, whether you qualify, and how to buy them. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
What Is a Lightweight Wheelchair for Travel?
A lightweight wheelchair for travel differs from a standard wheelchair in its build and size. As the name suggests, it weighs less and is made from lightweight and durable materials like aluminum. Moreover, it is narrower than bulky standard wheelchairs and is ideal for traveling as it can be folded down and stored in an airplane, in the trunk of any car, or in the cupboard when not in use.
Do I Qualify for a Lightweight Portable Wheelchair?
Although you don’t need a prescription to buy a lightweight wheelchair for traveling, people only ask this question when they want to cover the cost of the wheelchair with insurance benefits. To qualify, you need to demonstrate that you have limited mobility and cannot do routine tasks inside or outside your home. Your doctor will assess to ensure that your physical limitations meet the wheelchair requirements.
Moreover, to qualify, you also need to demonstrate your ability to handle the wheelchair on your own in the absence of a caregiver, being able to sit and support yourself and navigate without much difficulty.
How Much Does a Lightweight Wheelchair Cost?
Multiple factors determine the cost of a lightweight wheelchair for traveling, such as the material, the type of wheelchair (manual or electric), and the model. Generally, a standard lightweight wheelchair can cost around $100 to $500. At the same time, a heavy-duty wheelchair is higher than that, upto $2000, due to the advanced features and superior build. Aside from buying a wheelchair, you also need to consider its maintenance and replacement costs, which are required after a few months.
What Features to Consider When Buying a Lightweight Portable Wheelchair
As you can see, a lightweight wheelchair for travel is a hefty investment. Thus, ensure that you have all the necessary features to increase mobility and comfort. Thanks to technological advancement, wheelchairs nowadays come with a wide range of features, such as:
● Durable and strong material, such as aluminum
● Pneumatic flat-free rear and front wheels
● Adjustable backrest, armrest, and footrest
● Additional batteries
● Folding and disassembling ability
● Lightweight and easy to carry and use
How Do I Choose the Right Wheelchair Size?
To experience maximum comfort and portability, you need to choose the right size for your lightweight traveling wheelchair. For this, consider the seat width and depth. Generally, wheelchairs come in multiple seat widths, ranging from 14 to 20 inches, with 18 inches being the most common.
In contrast, seat depth determines the distance from the back of the seat to the front edge. When a user sits, there should be atleast 2 inches of difference between the user’s knee and the seat‘s front.
Conclusion
You need to consider a lot when buying a lightweight wheelchair for traveling purposes, such as the build, user’s weight, features, and budget. We hope our answers help solve your queries and help you make an informed decision.