How to Choose Wheelchair for Stroke Recovery

A stroke is unpredictable and can have a major impact on a person’s life. While many people who have suffered from a stroke recover, some cannot. For such patients, everyday tasks become new challenges. In such situations, selecting the appropriate mobility device can help stroke patients a lot to regain independence. Various devices like grab bars, walking sticks, or wheelchairs allow the person to move again independently. For patients who require additional support in stroke recovery process, a wheelchair can be a lifesaver for them. 

In this article, you will get information about strokes, the use of wheelchairs as a potential mobility aid, as well as the things one needs to pay attention to while selecting a wheelchair.

Causes of Stroke

A stroke, medically referred to as apoplexy, results from an insufficient blood supply in particular parts of the brain. There are two major causes that result in a stroke: blood clots, which are called ischemic stroke, and brain bleeding, which is called hemorrhagic stroke. Regardless of what causes a stroke, the brain cells die within a short time, and this brings dire consequences for the victim. The person becomes paralyzed on one side of his/her body. Speech disorders may also be experienced.

The earlier a stroke victim gets treated, the better chances he/she has to recover. In addition to receiving medical attention, a wheelchair is helpful for a stroke victim to regain mobility.

Selecting a Suitable Wheelchair Post-stroke

Selecting a wheelchair for stroke patients may become a real dilemma because everyone needs something different in terms of their specific situation. It is recommended to spend some time analyzing your own wishes before buying a chair. Here are three main questions that assist you in your decision-making process:

• Am I able to move the wheelchair by myself, or require help from someone?
• Do I need a wheelchair permanently or just as a temporary solution?
• Would I be using it mainly indoors or outdoors?

You must know the answers to these questions to select the right wheelchair for your recovery period. 

What To Consider While Choosing Wheelchair For Stroke Recovery

Comfort and Customization

The right wheelchair should be comfortable to avoid discomfort and painful situations. An ideal option is a wheelchair that can be adjusted easily to suit you and that has soft cushioning for additional comfort and health protection. A perfect match is a customized wheelchair, which means that there will be no need for changes.

Drive and Control

For people who have paralysis problems, using an electric wheelchair makes their lives easier. An electric wheelchair uses less physical energy than other wheelchairs and will allow you to travel safely even without strong muscle coordination.

Use Indoor/Outdoor

It is important that a wheelchair be useful both for indoor activities and outside trips. In short, it has to be an all-terrain wheelchair. A smaller size and sharp turning radius enable you to move through small spaces easily. Lightweight and foldable wheelchairs are convenient to transport from one place to another. This type of wheelchair is a great choice for patients who travel more often.

Ideal Wheelchairs for Stroke Patients

Electric wheelchairs have features that can meet the requirements of patients who suffer from strokes.

Ergonomic Seat Design

A power wheelchair gives you an adjustable seating experience designed according to your requirements. Every seat component can be adjusted. The additional back cushion supports your spine while driving. This wheelchair moves using its two strong wheels and balances itself automatically due to the self-balance feature.

Reclining Backrest

In the case of stroke patients who use their electric wheelchairs most of the time, the reclining backrest feature plays a major role. It helps improve blood circulation throughout the body, including in the legs. You need not move from your wheelchair to relax your body.

Easy Transportation

With the use of a remote control, it is convenient to transport the chair in vehicles. This suits people who use a wheelchair for extended walks but are still mobile.

Intelligence

Thanks to cutting-edge sensor technology, the electric wheelchair recognizes obstacles very precisely. Also, you will always be in control and operate it by using the joystick attached to your power wheelchair.

Top 3 Best Electric Wheelchairs from Manafeth Mobility Solutions

These top three models of electric wheelchairs are best suited for patients recovering from stroke.

LUMI® NOVA – Portable Lightweight Carbon Fiber Motorized Wheelchair

Features

• Constructed with lightweight yet sturdy carbon fiber material
• Lightweight and compact folding structure
• Padded comfortable seating
• Simple joystick control
• Efficient 24V 10AH lithium battery
• Maximum load capacity: 100 kg
• Solid front and rear PU wheels for efficient traveling

Reasons to Choose this One

If you are looking for portability, then go for LUMI NOVA. Its ultralight carbon fiber body will help to make it easy to carry around wherever you go.

LUMI® EVO – Heavy Duty Electric Wheelchair

Key Features

• Frame made from durable aluminium alloy
• Advanced braking system for greater safety
• Anti-tilt wheels for increased stability
• User-friendly joystick for easy and accurate operation
• Portable lithium battery for prolonged usage
• Personal storage bag included
• Robust build for frequent use

Why This Product Is the Best Choice

This electric wheelchair is a reliable choice for stroke patients requiring increased stability and durability. It is equipped with several safety features and robust frame.

R1 Ultra Smart Electric Wheelchair – High-end Comfort & Technology

Features

• Highest possible weight carrying capacity – 136kg
• Automatic Speed Control System
• Brushless Motors for smooth operation
• Puncture-proof wheels for effortless movement
• Breathable cushioned seat for maximum comfort
• Adjustable backrest, headrest, height and waist supports
• Quick release straps
• Built-in smartphone holder on the armrests
• USB charger port
• Lithium battery system

What Makes It a Great Purchase

The adjustable seating, automatic speed control, and smart accessory components of the R1 Ultra Smart Electric Wheelchair make it perfect for people looking to maximize their independence and customization.

Conclusion

The choice of wheelchair when recovering from a stroke is also vital to ensure comfort and independence of the patient throughout the process of rehabilitation. Because each individual’s mobility requirements will vary, it is important to think about how comfortable the chair will be, its level of control and portability, and the suitability of using it either indoors or outdoors. During stroke recovery, a highly adaptable electric wheelchair can ensure increased levels of comfort for patients. At Manafeth Mobility Solutions, you can find highly dependable and advanced electric wheelchairs.