A wheelchair helps a person maintain mobility, independence, and the ability to participate in everyday life. It can be used temporarily—during recovery from an injury or surgery—or permanently if a person has difficulty moving independently.
When choosing a wheelchair, it's important to consider more than just its price and appearance. Consider the seat size, user weight, operating conditions, control type, room dimensions, and the user's activity level.
OSAKO is a brand of rehabilitation and quality-of-life products. The company, established in 2020, is expanding its presence in Kazakhstan and the CIS countries and helping people find affordable and reliable equipment to maintain their health and mobility.
What is a wheelchair?
A wheelchair is a technical rehabilitation device designed to move people with temporary or permanent mobility limitations.
The stroller can be used:
Houses;
on the street;
in a medical institution;
in a rehabilitation center;
during walks;
when traveling and transporting;
during the recovery period after surgery or injury.
A properly selected model reduces the burden on the person and their companions, helps them move around more safely, and makes everyday life more comfortable.
What types of wheelchairs are there?
There are several main types of wheelchairs. The choice depends on the person's condition, lifestyle, and the conditions in which the equipment will be used.
Mechanical wheelchairs
A mechanical wheelchair is propelled by the user's hands or with the help of an accompanying person.
These models are suitable for people who are able to independently rotate the hoops of the rear wheels, as well as for patients who are regularly accompanied by relatives or medical personnel.
Advantages of mechanical wheelchairs:
relatively light weight;
simple design;
folding capability;
ease of transportation;
no need to charge the battery;
Possibility of use at home and outdoors.
When driving independently, it is important to consider the strength of the arms, the mobility of the shoulder joints and the overall physical endurance of the person.
Strollers with handles for accompanying persons
If the user is unable to control the wheelchair independently, primary control is performed by the accompanying person.
When choosing this model, consider the comfort of the handles, the presence of brakes, the stability of the structure, and the overall weight of the stroller. The lighter the stroller, the easier it is to lift, fold, and transport in a car.
Electric wheelchairs
An electric wheelchair is propelled by an electric motor and is usually controlled by a joystick.
These models may be suitable for people who find it difficult to propel a manual wheelchair. Electric propulsion allows for movement with less physical strain and gives the user greater independence.
When choosing an electric model, consider:
power reserve;
load capacity;
engine power;
battery type;
charging time;
width of the stroller;
turning radius;
outdoor usability;
availability of service.
Before purchasing, you need to decide in advance where the stroller will be stored and charged, and whether it will fit through doors and into an elevator.
Strollers and indoor strollers
Indoor models are designed primarily for indoor use. They are typically compact and easy to maneuver.
Stroller models are designed for outdoor use. They may have larger wheels, a sturdy frame, and a design adapted to uneven surfaces.
However, not every outdoor stroller is suitable for difficult roads, curbs, and rough terrain. Before purchasing, it's important to check the operating conditions of a specific model.
Folding wheelchairs
The folding design is convenient for transporting the stroller in a car and storing it in an apartment. However, it's important to consider not only the folding capability but also the weight of the equipment.
If relatives regularly have to lift the stroller up the stairs or load it into the trunk, the weight of the model becomes one of the main selection criteria.
How to choose the right wheelchair
There's no one-size-fits-all wheelchair that's equally comfortable for all users. The model should be selected based on the user's individual needs.
Seat width
A seat that's too narrow can create pressure and discomfort. A seat that's too wide can reduce body support and make independent control difficult.
The user should be positioned securely in the wheelchair, without excessive pressure on the sides. There should be some space between the user's body and the side elements.
Seat depth
The correct seat depth helps distribute the weight evenly and maintain a comfortable leg position.
If the seat is too deep, its edge may press on the area behind the knees. If it's too short, there won't be enough thigh support.
Backrest height
The height of the backrest depends on how well a person can hold his body.
Active users may find a lower backrest comfortable without restricting arm movement. Those who require additional support may benefit from a higher backrest or special bracing.
Load capacity
Each wheelchair is designed to support a specific maximum user weight. Exceeding the manufacturer's stated load is not recommended, as this impacts stability, component wear, and operational safety.
When selecting a model, it is advisable to have a small reserve of load capacity.
Armrests and footrests
Armrests provide support for the arms and help a person maintain a stable position.
Removable or fold-down armrests can make transfers from a bed, chair, or car seat easier. Adjustable footrests allow the user to adjust the leg position to their height.
Wheels and maneuverability
Large rear wheels are convenient for independent propulsion of a manual wheelchair. Small wheels are more often used in models that are pushed by an accompanying person.
For an apartment, the stroller's width and turning radius are especially important. For outdoor use, it's important to consider the quality of the pavement, the presence of curbs, ramps, and other obstacles.
Brake system
Proper brakes are essential when stopping, transferring, or when the stroller is on a slight incline.
Before use, make sure that the brakes engage easily and securely lock the wheels.
Dimensions of a wheelchair
Before purchasing, it is recommended to measure:
width of doorways;
elevator dimensions;
width of corridors;
free space in the bathroom;
storage location;
the size of the car trunk.
It's important to consider the full width of the stroller, not just the seat width.
Wheelchair for home use
For use in an apartment, a compact and maneuverable model is usually chosen. It should fit easily between furniture, unfold in the hallway, and fit through doorways.
It is also important to check whether the person can reach the table, bed, sink and other necessary items.
For areas with limited space, the overall width of the structure, the turning radius, and the ability to remove footrests or armrests are of great importance.
Wheelchair for the street
An outdoor stroller should be stable and suitable for the surface on which the person will move most often.
When choosing, consider:
condition of sidewalks;
availability of ramps;
height of curbs;
distance of daily trips;
the need to use public transport;
the possibility of transporting a stroller in a car;
climatic conditions.
For regular walks, the quality of the wheels, the stability of the frame and the comfort of the seat are also important.
Wheelchair for an elderly person
When choosing a wheelchair for an elderly person, it is necessary to consider not only the mobility of the legs, but also the strength of the arms, coordination, joint condition, the ability to maintain balance, and the ability to transfer independently.
If a person gets tired quickly or is unable to control the wheelchair independently, a model designed for control by an accompanying person may be required.
You should also pay attention to:
stability;
simplicity of the braking system;
comfortable armrests;
back support;
adjustable footrests;
the ability to quickly fold the stroller.
In complex cases, it is recommended to coordinate equipment parameters with a doctor or rehabilitation specialist.
Wheelchair after surgery or injury
A mechanical folding model is often chosen for temporary use. It can be used during recovery from a fracture, surgery, or other condition that temporarily limits walking ability.
Before choosing, it is important to understand whether the person will be able to operate the stroller independently, how long it will be used, and whether it will need to be regularly transported in a car.
Even when used temporarily, the seat and footrests must be appropriate for the user's height and build.
What to look for before buying
Before purchasing a wheelchair, it is recommended to determine:
Who will operate the wheelchair - the user or the accompanying person?
Where will it be used - at home, outdoors, or both.
What user weight should the structure be able to support?
What seat width is required?
Will the stroller fit through the doors and into the elevator?
Is it necessary to transport it in a car regularly?
Do you require removable armrests, footrests or additional support elements?
How easy is the stroller to fold and lift?
Is the model suitable for daily long-term use?
This approach helps avoid situations where the purchased stroller turns out to be too wide, heavy, uncomfortable, or unsuitable for the user's condition.
Why is it important to choose the right stroller?
An ill-fitting model can cause discomfort, impair posture, and complicate transfers. It can also make it difficult for a person to maneuver the wheelchair independently or navigate the apartment.
Properly selected equipment helps:
maintain mobility;
reduce dependence on others;
to facilitate human care;
safer to move around;
maintain participation in family and social life;
improve the quality of everyday life.
Therefore, when choosing, it is necessary to focus not only on price, but also on the real needs of the user.
About OSAKO
OSAKO is a brand of products for rehabilitation and quality of life restoration. The company was founded in 2020 and currently operates in Kazakhstan while simultaneously expanding its presence in the CIS countries.
OSAKO's mission is to help people maintain health, mobility, and quality of life through affordable and reliable equipment.
The company focuses on the needs of people who require products for rehabilitation, recovery, and daily care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which wheelchair is best for home use?
For a home, a compact model with good maneuverability is usually suitable. Before purchasing, it's important to measure doorways, hallways, elevators, and available space in the rooms.
How to choose the seat width?
The seat width is selected based on the user's build. The seat shouldn't be too tight, but it shouldn't be too wide either. For an accurate fit, take your measurements and compare them with the model's specifications.
Can I use an indoor stroller outside?
This depends on the design and manufacturer's recommendations. Some models are only suitable for flat indoor surfaces, while others can be used indoors and outdoors.
Which stroller is better - manual or electric?
The manual model is suitable for users who can maneuver the wheels themselves or for those with a constant companion. An electric wheelchair allows for less physical exertion but requires charging and suitable storage.
How to choose a stroller for an elderly person?
It's important to consider your weight, height, body balance, arm strength, ability to transfer independently, and the conditions of use. If you have significant mobility limitations, it's best to consult a rehabilitation specialist about the right choice.
Are folding strollers suitable for car transport?
Most folding models are easier to transport, but before purchasing, you should check the stroller's weight and folded dimensions, and compare them with the dimensions of the trunk.
Where to find a wheelchair in Kazakhstan
To select a wheelchair, it is necessary to take into account the user's condition, their parameters, living conditions, and the intended mode of use.
Contact OSAKO to learn about available models and select equipment tailored to your needs. Our specialists will help you understand the specifications, sizes, and operating features of wheelchairs.
Contact OSAKO and explain who you're choosing a wheelchair for, where it will be used, and who will operate it. This will help you quickly determine the appropriate type of equipment and avoid making mistakes when purchasing.