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Folding Wheel Chair
Disabled people on the move should consider the option of buying
a folding wheel chair. You have a choice between a manual and an
electric folding chair. A manual, folding wheel chair usually
has an X-frame while with a power or electric wheel chair the
seat folds back in the way you would close a suitcase.
Because of some disadvantages connected to the X-frame there are
manufacturers that are doing away with this type of frame, but
regardless of that, the X-frame is still very popular with
manual wheel chair users.
Advantages of
Folding Wheel Chair
It folds easily and can be transported with relative comfort
in a car or by any other means.
With most no parts need to be removed before it is folded and
packed away.
Folding wheel chairs are usually a bit more flexible than
rigid chairs and will be a good option if it needs to be used on
very rough terrains.
If you live in a small apartment or work in an area where
space is limited the folding chair can easily be stored out of
the way. Folding wheel chairs made from lightweight materials are
normally easy to handle.
Disadvantages of Folding Wheel Chairs
One of the major disadvantages is that foldable chairs are not
as durable as rigid chairs. Wear and tear on the parts that fold
will mean that replacement of the parts is needed more often. On
the other hand, it is usually easier to repair these parts than
those of rigid chairs.
Folding chairs seldom have an adjustable seating option.
After-purchase adjustments and configurations are not really
possible with folding wheel chairs where with rigid ones it can
easily be done.
Looking at the aesthetic side of things, rigid wheel chairs
can be designed to be more visually attractive while folding
wheel chairs are designed with the focus on folding easily and
are seldom attractive.
It is much easier for a user to transfer independently from a
rigid wheel chair than from a foldable one. They normally will
need assistance to make the transfer when using a foldable
chair. Rigid wheel chairs can be made to support the body of the user
while it is mostly not possible with folding chairs.
Because the X-frame chair folds from side to side it tends to
have stability issues.
A foldable electric wheel chair cant turn as tightly as a
rigid chair.
Price of a Folding Wheel Chair
Prices vary considerably because of the many different models
and types of wheel chairs available. A junior manual, foldable
chair can cost as little as $100 while power, folding wheel
chairs average around $2 000 to $3 000, but for certain models
it can be $30 000 or more.
Choosing the most affordable, comfortable and supportive wheel
chair can be a vast task and it is always advisable to consult
the medical experts to assist you in making the best choice for
your specific needs. |
