Moving with a disability doesn't have to be hard work. There have been a number of break-through's over the years, and great mobility can return to you by simply using one of many items available.

The most commonly known aid for manoeuvering with a disability or injury is a wheelchair. They come in many different designs for a multitude of purposes. The two main types of wheelchair out there are transit chairs and self propel wheelchairs. Transit, or transport, chairs remove the two bulky wheels from the rear. This allows it to fit into small vehicles- sometimes even suitcases- and also reduces weight... however the price is that the occupant cannot propel themselves. If the user wants to push the chair then you need to look into a self-propel wheelchair. You almost certainly would have seen this type of chair before; two large wheels with push-rims allow the occupant to move themselves with ease. If you are looking into wheelchairs, you may also need to consider a cushion. Many people do not realize that pressure sores can kill you. This is not an overstatement, but a real danger that must be considered. If the user is spending any more than 2 hours in the chair without a break you almost certainly require a cushion. Please speak to us or contact an Occupational Therapist \ Physiotherapist to obtain a recommendation on types of cushions and sizes available.

A wheelchair is good for those who cannot walk, or need a break from walking. If you are more mobile you may want to consider a walking aid such as a rollator. A rollator frame, sometimes called wheely walkers, have 3 or 4 wheels and often feature a braking system, seat and storage medium (bag or basket). The two most common type of rollators out there are 'hand brake' (similar brake system to a bicycle) or 'push-down \ compression brake' (pressure causes two rubber stoppers to slow the machine). The seat is great for situations where the person may need to sit at the drop of a hat and won't be able to find an appropriate perch. They are relatively inexpensive and are great for outdoors or inside. However, if you are looking for something more compact and lightweight, and a seat or basket do not appeal to you, you may be after a walking frame (often called zimmer frames too). These frames are often less than 2kg, fold up flat and can be used with either wheels or as a simple pick-up frame.

There are plenty of other options for getting around such as walking sticks, quad sticks, crutches and many more- check out our massive range of mobility products at the Mobility Shop!