How to look after your wheelchair

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To keep a wheelchair in optimum condition requires maintenance. Not only is this important for it to run efficiently to be as comfortable as possible for the wheelchair user, it’s also important to make sure that the wheelchair is operating safely. Here are some easy simple tips on wheelchair home-maintenance to keep it running smoothly.

  • Wheelchairs need regular maintenance to keep them in optimum condition.
  • This it important in terms of user comfort and safety.
  • Tips for simple home maintenance can help.

From a safety perspective, it’s worth remembering to apply brakes and lift footplates before sitting down or getting up from the wheelchair as well trying to avoid travelling in the rain as the terrain could be slippery – and of course, wheelchairs aren’t actually waterproof.

Also, it’s a good idea to avoid hanging heavy weights from the back of the wheelchair. Not only could this cause it to tip up, it could put strain undue strain on mechanical parts leading to unnecessary wear and tear.

Apart from avoiding the rain where possible, wheelchairs need to be cleaned. A regular wipe down of the constituent parts of the wheelchair every few weeks (unless the weather’s bad) should keep it clean. It also provides an opportunity to spot any potential problems such as loose parts early – but remember to dry it thoroughly after any cleaning that involves water.

Just as we do with other vehicles, a wheelchair’s tyres need regular checks for air pressure and any cracks or worn patches so that tyres can be replaced before a puncture.

Similarly, it’s worth checking nuts, bolts and screws to make sure that they’re not coming loose or dislodged, and to tighten up any that need it. You might even find that you hear a loose part before you see it.

The occasional application of lubricating oil is a good idea to keep parts moving smoothly so that the ride is a comfortable as possible.

Obviously an electric wheelchair uses a battery, so you need to keep the connections clean and keep it charged up as recommended so that you’re always ready to go.

When your wheelchair isn’t in use make sure to store it somewhere dry and out of the wind and rain. If that isn’t possible indoors, invest in a wheelchair cover to keep it as protected as you can.

Finally, if you are ever unsure about whether your wheelchair is working properly or you don’t feel confident that you should be trying to fix the issue, it’s always worth letting a professional have a look.

Hopefully, a bit of regular routine maintenance should keep your wheelchair in great condition and keep you mobile.