The elderly and disabled are the main demand groups for wheelchairs. As the global aging population increases and the number of disabled people grows, the global demand for wheelchairs continues to grow. According to data released by Frost & Sullivan01, from 2016 to 2019, the global wheelchair market size increased year by year. In 2020, the global wheelchair market was about 7.1 billion US dollars, down 14.98% year-on-year. From 2021 to 2023, the global wheelchair market size resumes growth. With so many types of wheelchairs, as individuals, how do we choose a suitable wheelchair?

Now Robooter is here to give you some tips

 

1.What are the Different Types of Wheelchair?

1.1. Manual wheelchair

The feature is that it requires human strength to move, relying on oneself or family members for assistance. Manual wheelchair is suitable for short-distance travel for people with limited mobility. The advantage is wide choice, both in price and style, while the disadvantage is relatively laborious and not suitable for long-distance travel.

 

1.2. Sports wheelchair

Specially designed wheelchairs are used for recreational sports or competitions. They are generally customized according to individual needs.The advantages are high flexibility and greater professionalism, while the disadvantages are the need for customization and high cost.

 

1.3. Electric wheelchair

Power Wheelchairs with electric motors and navigation control methods have increased in weight. They have higher awareness and long-term development, so they have a wide range of options. It’s better for long distance drive. 

 

1.4. Intelligent wheelchair

Based on electric wheelchairs, the application of IoT and AI technology, as well as mobile phone connectivity, enables remote control and intelligent folding. It is suitable for daily travel with intelligent control and one-click summoning/positioning. The disadvantage is that it is slightly heavier.

 

1.5. Stair climbing wheelchair

Climbing stairs is suitable for specific scenarios based on self-balancing technology, tank tracks. But there is heavier and more expensive.

 

2.What to Consider When Buying a Wheelchair 

2.1.Physical condition and body size: choose a wheelchair based on their physical condition and body size. Blindly buying a wheelchair can cause a lot of trouble for themselves. Returning or exchanging the product can be even more frustrating.

 

2.2.Lightweight: The wheelchair should be light but not too light. Excessive lightweight wheelchairs will cause instability of the chassis, which is why many people get injured due to being too light. Lightness is not always the best.

 

2.3.Long battery life: The battery life of a wheelchair should be chosen according to your own needs. For indoor using, long mobility travel, and portability, if you blindly pursue long battery life, the battery will inevitably increase, overall weight of the wheelchair will inevitably increase.

 

Choosing the right wheelchair is a decision that requires careful consideration. With the right information and guidance, you can find a wheelchair that meets your needs and helps you maintain your independence and mobility. Don't hesitate to seek advice from healthcare professionals and wheelchair experts to ensure that you make the best choice for you or your loved one.

 

Information Source:

01: https://www.frost.com/analytics/industry/transforming-healthcare/

 

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