Staying Warm and Comfortable While Using a Wheelchair This Winter
Winter in the UK can be challenging, especially with heavy rainfall, harsh winds, and icy surfaces.
Keeping warm is one of winter's many challenges, especially for elderly people or wheelchair users who may be more susceptible to the cold.
However, with the right strategies and accessories, you can stay cosy and keep your joints from locking up this chilly season. Stick with Millercare as we walk through easy ways to stay warm and comfortable while using a wheelchair this winter.
1. Layer Up with Adaptive Clothing
Layering up is a winter essential, especially for those with joints that are prone to stiffening in the cold.
When preparing to go outside, start with a moisture-wicking base layer to help retain heat while keeping you dry throughout the day. Thermal tops and leggings made from merino wool or synthetic materials are great choices.
Then, add an insulating middle layer, such as a warm jumper, cardigan, or long-sleeve top. For free movement, opt for sleeveless gilets or fleece jackets; these add insulation without restricting arm movement.
A waterproof outer layer, like a fleece-lined bubble coat or wind-resistant jacket, will shield you from the wind, rain, and snow. Look for features like adjustable cuffs and magnetic closures for added flexibility when travelling in a wheelchair.
2. Invest in Wheelchair-Specific Accessories
Sometimes the detail is in the accessories (the detail being unlimited comfort and cosiness during the winter month).
Waterproof seat covers are essential for preventing your wheelchair from becoming moist and icy during the winter. You can also find seat covers that provide added insulation for extra warmth.
If you’re someone who feels the cold more than others, a wheelchair cosy is perfect for you. This acts like a sleeping bag, zipping up over your body to keep you cosy and dry all day long. Plus, it’s fleece-lined, so you can feel as snug as a bug in a rug.
Wheelchair ponchos can also keep you safe in rainy weather, preventing you and your wheelchair from becoming wet and slippery. The Able 2 Splash Wheelchair Mac Sleeved offers a comfortable and practical fit.
3. Use Heated Accessories
Heated accessories are one of the modern world’s best inventions.
Heated hand warmers are easy to carry when you’re off completing errands and offer immediate relief from the cold.
If you’re using a manual wheelchair and need to push it, heated gloves are a perfect option. They allow you to move your hands freely while keeping your fingers toasty. You can even invest in heated socks to stop your toes from freezing!
To keep your seat warm, opt for heated wheelchair pads. These are easy to install and remove, making them versatile for use indoors or outdoors. Plus, the heat can help with back and leg pains or aches throughout the day.
4. Keep Extremities Warm
A durable hat, scarf, and glove set is always essential for the winter.
Invest in insulated gloves or mittens with thermal linings to retain more heat. Gloves with silicone grips or textured palms can improve traction for pushing wheels.
A significant amount of heat is lost through the head, so hats and earmuffs made from wool or thermal fabrics are a great choice. Feet is another area of the body where we often lose heat, so invest in thermal socks made from merino wool for excellent warmth and moisture-wicking properties.
5. Invest in Wheelchair Cushions and Blankets
If you’re looking to take your comfort to the next level, then cosy blankets and cushions are the way to go.
Wheelchair blankets are typically fleece-lined or made from other insulating materials to trap body heat effectively. For wheelchair users who struggle with anxiety or restlessness, weighted blankets provide gentle pressure, which can be calming while also keeping you warm.
If you struggle with ulcers or leg and back pain, textured cushions such as the Harley Proform Combi Cushion are a great choice. They help disperse pressure around the sitting bones, making sitting for long periods of time more comfortable.
For full body support, the Harley 2-Way Sculptured Support Cushion (MIL) offers comfort and relief all day long.
Discover Winter Comfort Solutions with Millercare
At Millercare, we understand how important it is to remain comfortable and cosy throughout the winter months.
That’s why we provide a range of wheelchair cushions, blankets, and winter accessories to ensure you’re ready to face the colder months with confidence.
Browse our wheelchair accessories today to customise your mobility aids to meet your every need.