A Guide to Choosing the Right Wheelchair for Your Child
Choosing the right wheelchair for your child is no easy task, especially since they will need to rely on it every day.
With so many options on the market, it can take hours of scrolling, comparing, and researching to find what you’re looking for.
When searching for a wheelchair, you will need to consider your child's size and age, disability, and physical needs.
To speed up the process, Millercare has created a guide to help you understand your child’s needs and different types of wheelchairs so you can find an option that’s perfect for them.
Understanding Your Child's Specific Needs
Whether your child lives with an illness, disability, or injury that affects their physical capabilities, every child is different, and what may work for someone else may not work for them.
Physical Abilities
If your child struggles with upper body movement, then a wheelchair that can be propelled by a carer is important. However, older children may want more independence; in that case, a powerchair is the perfect choice.
Certain conditions, like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy, can put more strain on the body. A wheelchair with additional features, such as extra cushioning or support rests, will improve your child’s comfort.
Growth and Development
As children grow quickly, you’ll want to answer the following: Do I want a wheelchair that is the perfect size for my child now or one that will grow with them?
To save time and money, look for wheelchairs that can be adjusted in width, depth, and height or modified as your child grows.
Lifestyle
Children who live active lifestyles and frequently play sports will need a wheelchair that can keep up. If your child has a consistent hobby, like basketball, then buying a specialised sports wheelchair purely for this reason will provide much more ease of movement.
Your child will also spend a lot of time moving back and forth between school and home, so look for a wheelchair that can easily navigate tight spaces.
For the adventurous child, a model with all-terrain wheels, suspension systems, and weather resistance is ideal for outdoor activities.
Types of Wheelchairs
There are a wide variety of children's wheelchair options on the market that cater to different needs and lifestyles. Some of the most popular models include:
1. Manual Wheelchairs
Designed for self-propelling, these wheelchairs include large wheels that can be easily pushed by a child using hand rims.
Manual wheelchairs are often smaller in size and can be folded for convenience while travelling or easy storage. Attendant-propelled wheelchairs are designed for children who need assistance from a carer, with smaller rear wheels offering better manoeuvrability.
2. Powered Wheelchairs
As a more recent model, electric wheelchairs are designed with a built-in battery system that can be operated with a joystick or control buttons by the child.
This takes away the need for manual pushing, offering a great solution for children with limited upper mobility. Designed to handle slopes and uneven terrain, these come with a range of safety features and can navigate all types of terrain.
3. All-Terrain Wheelchairs
While most wheelchairs are built to handle uneven paths and slight slopes, all-terrain wheelchairs are the ultimate choice for tackling grass, gravel, sand, and snow.
Sturdy frames and robust tyres offer extra stability and better grip in challenging conditions; these are a go-to choice for families who love exploring the outdoors. Many models come with built-in harnesses, weatherproof covers, and extra padding for comfort while travelling.
4. Sports Wheelchairs
As we briefly mentioned earlier, sports wheelchairs are designed for children who love to get involved with athletics and are part of basketball, tennis, and racing sports teams.
Sports require quick movement, speed, and agility, so sports wheelchairs are built to deliver. Lightweight frames, easy-move wheels, and anti-tip mechanisms ensure your child is safe when engaging in various activities.
Key Features to Consider
If you know what wheelchair to choose for your child, but you’re still unsure of what features you should be looking out for, this list should help you whittle your options down:
- Adjustable features: To support your child’s growth, look for seats that can be widened, back supports that can be lengthened, and adjustable foot and armrests.
- Ergonomic designs: A wheelchair is something that your child will use every day, so you’ll want to make sure the chairs are contoured to support the shape of your child. Opt for padded seats and armrests and supportive headrests to reduce strain and support your child's natural alignment.
- Safety features: Your child’s safety is a priority, so look for a wheelchair that has anti-tip wheels and breaks that can be easily operated. Additional harnesses, straps, and reflective stickers will also keep your child supported and visible in the dark.
- Ease of transportation: If your child frequently travels on public transport, like cars and buses, look for aluminium or titanium frames that are easy to lift and manoeuvre. Foldable models are ideal for storing in car boots or within the home.
- Load capacity: Different types of wheelchair models support different loads, so check whether each model can support your child's weight. While more expensive, durable and sturdy materials will last longer, saving you money in the long run.
- Built-in storage: Children need to carry books and bags to school, so look for wheelchairs with built-in baskets and bags for storage. Or, you can buy them separately, such as our Torba Go Wheelchair & Scooter Bag.
Fun and Appealing Designs
Children love things that are fun, colourful, or include their favourite interests, such as characters from a show.
By choosing a wheelchair that has bold designs, like bright red or blue paint, your child's personality can shine through.
From this, your child may get a boost of confidence, making their everyday routine more fun. Living with a disability can be stressful for a child, so letting them customise their wheelchair can help them develop a more positive attitude towards it.
Involving Healthcare Professionals
Before choosing a wheelchair for your child, it’s best to consult a professional healthcare provider to get their opinion.
Occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and paediatricians can conduct assessments of your child’s mobility, posture, and support requirements so you can find a chair that supports their every need.
This can help you avoid problems such as poor posture, discomfort, and pressure sores, so your child remains comfortable. Once you’ve purchased a wheelchair, a professional can help you make any adjustments necessary to improve the level of support the chair provides.
Choosing the Right Wheelchair With Millercare
At Millercare, we want what's best for your child, which is why we offer high-quality paediatric equipment.
From mobility buggies and walkers to manual and powered wheelchairs, our products are designed to offer the ultimate comfort and support for children living with disabilities and illnesses.
Before you purchase a product with us, we will conduct a thorough assessment of your child's needs to ensure it’s the right product for you.