Transport Wheelchair Choices

A transport wheelchair is a mobility chair designed for convenience, short-distance use and easy handling by a caregiver. Lightweight and foldable, these wheelchairs are easily moved and typically fit in the trunk of most vehicles. There is even a model designed to fold into a bag to be carried over the shoulder.

Transport chairs are practical for errands and trips to the store or the doctor. Hospitals sometimes utilize these flexible mobility chairs to move patients around their facilities.

You can identify a transport chair by looking at its rear wheels. They are much smaller than standard manual wheelchairs and similar in size to the front wheels. Without large rear wheels, the user must rely on someone else to push the chair, which is why the transport chair is often referred to as a companion wheelchair.

Transport wheelchairs provide many advantages:

Weight: As the name implies, they are easy to transport because they typically weigh around 15 to 20 pounds, which is much less than a manual wheelchair.
Storage: They are easier to store than traditional manual and electric wheelchairs. Most are small enough to fit into the trunk of a compact car.
Expense: They are less expensive than traditional and electric wheel chairs. Prices start at around $99 and can range up to $350, depending on features.

When looking for a companion chair, there are three factors to take into consideration.

Chair Weight: These chairs are usually made from lightweight aluminum or steel tubing. Make sure the chair you select is easy to lift, fold and move into and out of vehicles.
Comfort: Transport wheel chairs are not designed for all-day use. Even so, it is important to find one that is comfortable. The most common seat width is 19 inches; though, many models are available in 22 and 24 inch seat widths. A cushion or pad can be used to make the chair more comfortable.
Maximum Carry Weight: Many heavy-duty models have the ability to support up to 250 pounds. Always check weight capacity before making your purchase.

Other features to look for include a fold down back, swing away footrests, added upholstery, removable arms, padded arm rests, attendant-operated hand brakes, non-skid footplates, back pocket and warranties.

Above all, one of the most important aspects of owning a transport chair is the freedom and flexibility it provides the individual and the caregiver.