Manual vs Powered Wheelchairs

Buying a wheelchair for yourself or a loved one can be a difficult decision. As well as potentially having to contend with coming to terms with reduced mobility, the user may be overwhelmed with the vast array of options available.

When it comes to purchasing a wheelchair, the main decision you’ll have to make is whether to go for a manual or powered option. 

At London Mobility, we have a wide range of both manual and powered wheelchairs, and our team of reliable and helpful technicians is always available to help you choose a product that’s best for your needs.

In this article, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about both options, discussing the various benefits and giving you the information needed to make an informed decision.  

Benefits of manual wheelchairs 

The most common type of wheelchair is the manual chair. Operated by the user, people propel themselves forward by pushing the chair’s wheels in order to get around. 

The benefits of manual wheelchairs are as follows:

Ease of transport 

If you’re someone that regularly uses other forms of transport while in your wheelchair, then it’s going to be important to you that the chair can be accommodated within these transport options. 

Manual wheelchairs are much easier to fold up and store than powered options, meaning they’ll more easily fit in the boot of a car or on racks and overhead lockers in trains, buses and planes. 

Cheaper and require less maintenance

One of the biggest advantages of a manual wheelchair is that, as well as meeting an individual’s mobility needs, they’re typically cheaper than a powered alternative. 

Not only are you likely to pay less for the initial cost of a manual wheelchair, but its general upkeep and maintenance are inexpensive, too. Unlike a powered option, which may have batteries, electrical parts and sometimes even software that needs maintaining, manual wheelchairs are much more straightforward when it comes to repairs.       

Benefits of powered wheelchairs 

Powered wheelchairs, or electric wheelchairs as they’re also known, are excellent at helping people get around. Powered electrically and giving the user full control of its movement, there are plenty of benefits if you choose this option.     

Comfortable 

Comfort is one of the main considerations of every wheelchair and something that is naturally the case with a powered type. Powered wheelchairs are designed around long-term use, meaning they frequently come with padded seats and back support. 

Easier mobility 

If you or your loved one struggles with mobility, upper body strength or endurance, then it’s important you find a chair that doesn’t require as much exertion. 

Powered wheelchairs operate using a simple joystick that makes the chair easy to control. With a powered chair, you don’t need to worry about pushing the wheels or having someone push the chair itself. Everything operates electrically, meaning there is minimum effort required.   

Customisable 

As previously mentioned, powered wheelchairs are designed with long-term use in mind. This means they’re often tailored specifically to individuals and their precise requirements. 

These chairs are much easier to customise and align with your needs, including things like the positioning of seating, arm rests, leg rests and more.  

 

Which wheelchair is best for me?

Now we’ve discussed the benefits of manual and powered wheelchairs, you hopefully have a better idea of which type is best for you. Before making a decision, be sure to consider your clinical needs and specific health conditions or disability. 

If you’re someone who will need to spend long periods of time in the chair, comfort is going to be a priority. With this in mind, be sure to test various options before settling on one that works best for you. Also, it’s important to consider your lifestyle. Does your home have the power requirements needed for a powered wheelchair? Do you travel outdoors regularly? Do you have the upper body strength required for a manual chair?

All of these questions should help you come to a conclusion that works best for you. 

If you require any more guidance, Mobility London is on hand to help. We’ve spent years providing people across London with specialist mobility equipment. Our team is always happy to advise on which type of chair is best for you based on your unique requirements. Contact our team today to find out more.