Here at Assurance Mobility, we believe that a wheelchair does not limit the abilities of the user. After all, they are merely a mobility aid in order to provide extra assistance for those with a disability or walking impairment.
A generic wheelchair leaves a lot to be desired when it comes to aesthetics. After all, they are designed to be functional rather than pleasing on the eye. Luckily, it is possible to personalise your wheelchair in order to add a unique flair to its exterior
As a piece of man-made technology, a wheelchair needs to be regularly maintained by the user in order to ensure that it remains in tip top condition. After all, they cannot regulate their own repair needs which means that any damage
There are certain things to take into consideration when travelling with a wheelchair user. After all, some chairs are too bulky to be loaded onto planes, coaches or trains at the last minute and must be taken to the baggage area ahead of time. The staff will often then provide a transit wheelchair in order to allow wheelchair users to navigate the surroundings safely, or the user may wish to bring their own. Read on as we go over everything there is to know about transit wheelchairs…
A transit wheelchair, also known as a transport wheelchair, is a type of chair that is designed for use while travelling in order to make the whole process much smoother. Since an attendant usually propels the chair, the rear wheels tend to be much smaller so that the carer can assemble and disassemble it quicker and easier. With this said, there are self-propelled transit wheelchairs on the market for those who want to retain as much independence as possible when travelling.
Many wheelchair users tend to option for a transit wheelchair when travelling by boat, plane or train because they are much lighter than certain alternatives. In fact, they can be easily folded in order to be stored during the journey too. Of course, this isn’t always possible for certain people because every condition is different and some users may rely on motorised chairs 24/7.
Luckily, the transport system has adapted considerably in order to accommodate transit wheelchairs, and wheelchairs in general. For instance, many trains and buses now have ramps for easy access and there are designated seating areas that wheelchair users are entitled to claim at all times. In addition to this, airports are also equipped with transport wheelchairs that flyers can use to get around if their own chair has been placed into the hold.
Here at Assurance Mobility, we stock a wide variety of wheelchairs, including transit chairs, in order to ensure that we are able to cater to the needs of every single one of our clients. After all, it is important that wheelchair users are able to travel in comfort. For
Here at Assurance Mobility, we recognise the importance of our mobility aids and how essential they are to the lives of our customers. After all, many wheelchair owners are reliant on a set of wheels in order to get from A to B in a safe yet independent manner. Society is even doing its part in order to ensure that wheelchair users are able to navigate busy city streets solo as there are a variety of everyday items that have been adapted specifically for the wheelchair market. Read on to find out more…
Since many wheelchair users do not need a separate seat to sit at a table or desk, it is important that the height of these items can be adjusted according to their needs. After all, every wheelchair will differ in terms of size and shape which is why many users tend to opt for specialised desks in order to create a comfortable working environment.
Wheelchairs are much bigger than people tend to realise and that is why public transport like buses and trains have designated areas specifically for wheelchair users. These disability-friendly zones prevent able-bodied people from taking up valuable space when standing up as they are required to move when a wheelchair user gets on board. In addition to this, there are also specialised seats on trains that have a table mounted in the air where wheelchair users can sit without having to get in and out of their chair.
Every parent wants to feel the joy of pushing their child in a pram, however, the majority of designs are manufactured with able-bodied people in mind, which means that the handles are often too high for wheelchair users. Wheelchair-adapted prams are adjusted in order to allow users to attach their chair to the pram so that they can safely manoeuvre independently with their child just like everybody else.
Although society has a lot of catching up to do in terms of accessibility, it is safe to say that we are heading in the right direction. After all, the Equality Act 2010 made the implementation of ramps and wheelchair lifts a compulsory feature in public buildings like shopping centres and pubs. With this said, the attitude towards wheelchair users isn’t always positive as it should be with able-bodied people still standing in wheelchair designated seating sometimes. For all your wheelchairs Oldham needs, get in contact with a member of the Assurance Mobility team today!
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to rage on, cleanliness has never been more important in order to prevent the spread of germs. After all, those with certain disabilities are more at risk of contracting the virus. Since wheelchair users come into constant contact with their chair when outdoors, it may be wise to get into a regular habit of cleaning and disinfecting every evening. Read on as we over a few top tips…
Many people are unaware that cleaning and disinfecting are two very different things. After all, the former removes dirt such a dust from surfaces but it doesn’t kill any germs. Of course, this will decrease the number of germs and help reduce the spread of any viruses, however it is disinfection that actually kills the microorganisms that cause both infections and viruses. This is carried out through the use of chemical products. Similarly, disinfecting doesn’t provide a cleaning approach, however it does reduce the number of germs that are lingering on a surface at any given time.
Wheelchairs are a carrier for germs because they are in contact with the outside world at all times, and the user has to touch their chair in order to manoeuvre it. As a result, users should ensure that they disinfect their wheelchair after each outdoor adventure in order to reduce the spread of COVID-19. This can be done by using a disinfectant solution that contains at least 70% alcohol; users should leave it on the surface for around 15 minutes for wiping it away with a cloth. When disinfecting, it is important to pay close attention to the wheels on self-propelled chairs and the joystick on electric chairs.
Although the majority of products are safe to use on a wheelchair, there are certain ingredients that should be avoided. For example, solvents, bleaches, abrasives, synthetic detergents, wax enamels, and sprays should not be used on a wheelchair because they will likely cause lasting damage to its exterior. In addition to this, water should be used carefully around electric wheelchairs in order to prevent damage to the motor, and every chair should be dried thoroughly after it has been disinfected in order to ensure safety at all times.
Here at Assurance Mobility, we prioritise the safety of our clients at every opportunity. In fact, our wheelchairs are designed and manufactured with the very best attention to detail as we know how important quality and durability are when investing in a mobility aid. To find out more information about COVID-19 safety and how to disinfect your wheelchair, get in contact with the best wheelchairs Manchester has to offer and speak to a member of the Assurance Mobility team today!
As part of the Assurance Mobility company ethos, we want to make life as easy as possible for our customers. In fact, we stock a variety of high-quality, specialised wheelchairs that have been designed and manufactured with a wide range of different conditions in mind and the needs of each client accordingly. With this said, society still has a lot of catching up to do when it comes to the way that wheelchair accessibility is approached. Read on to find out more…
Travelling from one place to another is second nature for the majority of able-bodied people. After all, society has been designed in order to cater to those who don’t have additional needs or may require the use of accessibility tools like wheelchairs, canes, and mobility scooters. Furthermore, some disabilities are invisible which means that many people tend to suffer in silence. As a result, it is important that accessibility is prioritised in order to ensure wheelchair users are able to get from A to B with the same ease as everyone else.
Over the years, there have been a handful of alterations made in order to allow wheelchair users to enter and exit public buildings with as much ease as possible. For example, many businesses provide ramps and/or wheelchair lifts that are a safe and convenient alternative to staircases. With this said, they are not always very well-maintained or located within close proximity to the area where able-bodied people traditionally enter and exit. As a result, this can alienate wheelchair users because they must separate from their friends or hold up other people in order to allow a member of staff to assist with using the lift technology.
The Equality Act 2010 was introduced in order to ensure that nobody is ever discriminated against in any setting based on their age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or disability status. In fact, it made the implementation of accessibility tools like ramps, wheelchair lifts, and stair lifts a legal requirement in both public shopping centres and businesses like pubs and restaurants. This means that society is certainly heading in the right direction when it comes to accessibility for wheelchair users, however there is still a lot of work to be done. After all, just 79 out of 270 London Underground stations provide step-free access as of 2020.
From ramps to lifts, many wheelchair users find it difficult to obtain access to buildings in the same way that able-bodied people do because of a lack of these features. After all, many business owners will find loopholes in order to avoid installing them.
Here at Assurance Mobility, we want to use our blog feature to raise awareness and put disabled voices in the spotlight. For all your wheelchairs Oldham needs, get in contact with a member of the team today!
The perfect wheelchair is just as important to an individual with a disability as the foundation is to the longevity and safety of a building. After all, the wrong design, size or operating method on a chair can have severe repercussions on the quality of life of the user. Here at Assurance Mobility, we work closely with each client in order to deliver the upmost service each and every time. Read on as we go over five interesting facts about electric wheelchairs…
Similar to 80’s video games, the majority of electric wheelchairs are controlled using a joystick on left- or right-hand side. This gives the user complete control over their movements as they’re able to effectively move in all four directions. In addition to this, the speed of the wheelchair is often determined by either a specific button or the amount of pressure that is applied to the joystick.
Every wheelchair user is unique which means that the market must be able to provide a client with an abundance of choice when investing in a chair. Electric chairs are incredibly varied in terms of design because there are a wide range of sizes and shapes to choose from. This provides users with the ability to select a wheelchair that will meet their needs as specifically as possible.
Electric wheelchairs use a motor in order to provide power and allow the user to manoeuvre the chair and manipulate the controls. As a result, they must be charged on a regular basis in order to ensure that they have full power at all times. After all, self-propelled wheelchairs may rely on the user entirely; however, electric alternatives are completely technological. As a result, most users tend to charge their chair in the evening in preparation for the following day.
For many years, wheelchairs were very basic and allowed users to simply get from A to B. After all, comfort was not a major priority. Luckily, technological advancements mean that modern electric wheelchairs now have numerous functions that can be adjusted specifically, such as tilting seats that allow the user to recline as well as the ability to adjust the height of the seat, arm rests, and foot rests.
A well-designed electric wheelchair is made with longevity and durability in mind, which means that they are often considered an investment for the future. As a result, many people are able to get their hands on state-of-the-art technology without breaking the bank or putting their health at risk.
An electric wheelchair is an effective mobility tool for those who do not have the upper body strength to manoeuvre a self-propelled chair. After all, there are a variety of conditions that can make it difficult to use the muscles in the arms effectively.
Powered wheelchairs are an exciting alternative that provide comfort and reliability at every opportunity. To find out more information, get in contact with the best wheelchairs Manchester has to offer and speak to a member of the Assurance Mobility team today!
Here at Assurance Mobility, we strive to provide each of our clients with the upmost comfort following their investment in a brand-new wheelchair. With this said, there are certain conditions that can make the muscles incredibly sensitive to pain which means that additional tools may be necessary in order to improve the comfort of a chair and ensure that the user is able to relax. Read on as we go over five affordable tools that can be used…
It is safe to say that humans were not made to sit down all day and that is why many wheelchair users are susceptible to pressure sores from discomfort. Luckily, there are many specialist cushions on the market made from materials like gel, memory foam and synthetics in order to provide users with a relaxing experience during each journey.
The part of the lower back that curves inwards is known as the ‘lumbar region’ and it is essential that it is provided with regular support. After all, a wheelchair can make it difficult to sit upright all day. By using specialist cushions, it is possible to encourage the correct posture and ensure that wheelchair users who have the ability to sit upright are able to obtain continuous lumbar support.
Self-propelled wheelchairs are designed to be manoeuvred by the user and this action places a lot of pressure on the hands. In fact, some users will develop blisters or calluses in the process of using their wheelchair which can be incredibly uncomfortable. Investing in a pair of wheelchair gloves provides the grip necessary to maintain control without developing nasty injuries such as these.
Almost every wheelchair comes with footrests as this prevents the feet from dragging on the floor, however they are usually implemented in a less than satisfactory manner. As a result, it is recommended that users adjust the height of their footrest in order to find the position that feels the most comfortable. After all, this will aid posture and ensures that the hips remain slightly lower than the knees.
Finally, it is important that wheelchair users take the time to find the most suitable product for their needs and invest in a quality wheelchair. After all, a cheap alternative is usually manufactured by those who do not pay attention to industry standard comfort and this will likely result in an incredibly uncomfortable experience for the customer.
A wheelchair is an incredibly versatile accessibility tool that can be adapted in order to suit the needs of the user appropriately. After all, motor-driven and self-propelled chairs are designed with different conditions in mind. With this said, it may be necessary to invest in cushions or blankets to aid the comfort of the user. To find out more information, get in contact with the best wheelchairs Manchester has to offer and speak to a member of the Assurance Mobility team today!
Here at Assurance Mobility, we believe that a wheelchair should be a badge of honour. After all, they are designed with efficiency in mind in order to provide users with a reliable way to get from A to B, which can be tricky in a world that is governed by able-bodied accessibility. We’ve decided to use our blogging platform in order to raise awareness about wheelchairs and what it really means to be a wheelchair user. Read on as we go over 5 famous people who used a chair…
Stephen Hawking
After being diagnosed with Motor Neuron Disease at 21 years old, Stephen Hawking went on to achieve great success as a quantum theory physicist despite being confined to a wheelchair for over 50 years. He is renowned as one of the most famous wheelchair users in the world, and learned to communicate using just the muscles in his cheek.
Franklin Roosevelt
The 32nd President of the United States wasn’t always a wheelchair user; however, he became paralysed from the waist down after contracting an illness at 39 years old whilst on holiday. In fact, many medical professionals believe that this famous face suffered from polio. Despite his condition, Roosevelt was able to walk short distances using iron braces and a cane after intensive hydrotherapy, and actually refused to use his wheelchair in public.
Teddy Pendergrass
Born in Philadelphia, Pendergrass’ started his career as a drummer for The Cadillacs and was invited to be the lead singer of the band, which merged with Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, after spontaneously taking the spotlight during a performance. As a famous wheelchair user, Pendergrass was involved in a car accident in 1982 after his brakes failed, leaving him paralysed from a spinal cord injury.
Frida Kahlo
At the age of 18, Mexican painter Frida Kahlo was involved in a bus accident so severe that she was impaled by an iron handrail, fracturing her pelvis. The accident ended her dreams of becoming a doctor but eventually lead to her decision to take up art. Throughout her life, Kahlo complained of back pain and mobility issues which were caused by the accident and lead to her need for a wheelchair.
Barbara Jordan
As the first black Texan to ever be appointed in Congress and the first black woman to be elected to the Texas State Senate, it is safe to say that Barabara Jordan face a great deal of adversity throughout her life. Interestingly, she also lived with multiple sclerosis, a neurological condition that damages the brain and spinal cord, which left her confined to a wheelchair. As a leader in the Civil Rights Movement, Jordan was awarded the Presidential medal of Freedom in 1994 and worked hard to keep the focus away from her illness.
It is safe to say that celebrities are just like everybody else, particularly when they have a disability. After all, nobody wants their medical condition to become their defining characteristic. Here at Assurance Mobility, we stock a wide range of wheelchairs in order to ensure that our clients are able to find the most suitable chair for their needs. In fact, we also have gel cushions and hand-muffs too. To find out more information, get in contact with the best wheelchairs Oldham has to offer and speak to a member of the team today!
