Over the years we have preached about the importance of choosing the right wheelchair or the benefits of certain positioning wheelchairs, however we have never talked about the simple benefits that come with using a wheelchair. If you are considering getting a wheelchair, but you’re not sure how it will benefit your life… keep reading!
Independence and freedom
The wheelchair is the most popular assistive device, and it’s easy to see why. A wheelchair can give back the feeling of independence and freedom to someone who might have previously felt dependent and restricted. A wheelchair can provide mobility to someone to help them get around, no matter how short or far the distance. A wheelchair can assist a wide range of mobility levels, lifestyles, backgrounds, and environment, making it the most versatile assistive device on the market.
Having access to a wheelchair allows the user to travel independently wherever they want, whenever they need. The control they have over their own life will also improve self-confidence and allow users to take control of their own lives.
Improves health
A wheelchair that fits properly can reduce secondary injuries such as scoliosis and pressure sores as a result of an ill-fitting wheelchair. With the proper wheelchair and supports, the wheelchair user can better propel and participate in more physical activities, thus improving their health. Choosing the right wheelchair not only means that the chair fits correctly, but it is also suitable for the user’s lifestyle. For example, if the user plans to use their wheelchair as their main form of transformation, if possible, the user can select a power wheelchair. This will relieve some of the physical effort that comes from propelling a wheelchair for long periods of time.
Being able to move around comfortably will improve the user’s mental health by being able to take control of their own life and enjoying the freedom that comes along with having your own mobility device.
Active member of the community
Wheelchairs are incredibly versatile and can be use used by men, women, young, or old. All of these roles are vital in an active community. In order to access the community, whether it be to go to work or attend school, a wheelchair can be used to provide access to these and other various activities. Without access to friends, family and peers, life can become lonely, so it’s important to have a way to access the company of others.
No matter what wheelchair you decide to choose, there are benefits that go beyond recovery or rehabilitation. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) states that having a personal mobility device is a human right. A personal mobility device should have the ability to move in a matter and at the time of one’s own choice. Acquiring a wheelchair is not only a choice, but a human right. If you need help choosing the right wheelchair for you, KARMA Medical are always here to help.
