Eldercare - What You Must Know When It's Time to Move to a Wheel Chair

If you are a caregiver and the person you are caring for is experiencing inconvenience getting around by foot, it may be time to begin the transition to a wheel chair. Here are worthy tips that will make that alteration accessible when the time comes.

As a person ages the transition from one stage to the next can be very uneasy. It is especially hard for geriatric people because at every stage they have to give up something and become less and less independent.

It is important to keep in mind this so that moving to the "next" stage is done with dignity and with their best interest in mind.

As old people grow older and walking becomes more difficult there comes a time when opting for a wheel chair becomes required. This can be a very difficult transition. So it is best to move into it gradually if possible.

The older senior should be eager to walk as much as possible, but for longer trips suggesting a wheel chair might be a good idea to try. Offer that using a wheel chair will allow you to cover more ground; it will ease fatigue; it will help to prevent  possible slip and fall accidents as you are going through crowds of people.

Tips for Identifying the Correct Wheel Chair

Make sure the wheel chair is the right size. There should be about 1 inch of clearance on each side when the person is sitting in the chair. Too narrow and it might cause rubbing; too wide and it can result in posture and back problems.

When seated the knee should be at least 2-3 inches from the front of the seat.

Feet should rest completely flat on the foot rests. The foot rests should clear the ground by at least 2 inches.

Make sure there are adequate cushions for both the seat and arm rests to insure as much comfort as possible.

If the chair will be carried in and out of a car quite a bit you may want to consider spending a little more on a lighter weight version. Pay attention to how they fold up and make sure it suits properly in the trunk of your car.

Consider the right type of wheel. The choices for most versions are pneumatic or solid. Solid will be low maintenance and is best if the chair is going to be used just around the house. Solid tires do not compromise a smooth a ride as pneumatic.

There are many different types of wheel chairs and customizable choices offered today. Some have features and accessories that work well for seniors like: swing away arm rests and foot rests. Some even have trays that swing or easily detach for eating. Still others have lap board featured for reading or doing crafts.

The prices you will achieve in wheel chairs will cover a broad spectrum. Often a senior's insurance will cover the cost of a wheel chair if ordered by their doctor. If price is a concern, that would be something to check first.

Follow these tips and make sure, above all else, security and safety should be your highest priority for the senior that will be using the wheel chair.