Review of Best Drive Wheelchairs for 2019

Reviews
/ By Anthony

Wheelchairs may be the most recognized and widely-used pieces of medical equipment in the world. Drive wheelchairs are commonly known mobility aids for seniors and people who have lost all, or most of their ambulatory ability. They are designed with specialized wheels for a smooth safe movement in a seated position. They give users freedom and make it easy for folks with mobility issues to move around. The market is filled with thousands of wheelchair options to choose from.

The process of picking the best drive wheelchair might not be as quick and easy as many people would assume. It is a daunting task for many seniors with walking needs. Because they provide care to such a wide variety of patients, wheelchairs come in different shapes, sizes, movement methods and special features such as soft mesh seat, armrest and footrest.

Manual vs. Powered Wheelchairs

Wheelchairs come with 2 movement option: manual and powered. Manual wheelchairs have no sort of motorized movement capabilities. They can be moved by the patient themselves or a caregiver. Powered wheelchairs are motorized to provide an automatic, steered movement. While both types provide users with easy, smooth movement, they both have their distinct pros and cons. Electric wheelchairs may offer seniors with long-term mobility issues great benefits, but when it comes to cost and portability, a self-propelled wheelchair is a better option. You can consult a professional physical therapist if you have trouble making a decision. Appropriate advice from an expert means that your health needs are well taken care of.

Which Wheelchair Should I Buy?

To be considered ideal, a wheelchair needs to provide you a smooth and comfortable ride. You need to consider a wheelchair that will serve your specific needs well. Consider how that wheelchair is going to be used before purchasing. If you’re going to use it in a public facility, consider a wheelchair with a weight capacity of at least 250 pounds and an adjustable seat. This way, the wheelchair can accommodate a wide range of residents. For one person, consider the patient’s upper body strength, limitations, measurements and mobility. An active senior can operate a wheelchair on their own while those with physical disabilities may need a wheelchair with electronic steering.

The Best Drive Wheelchairs for 2019

This article will act as a buying guide. We carefully analyzed top-rated wheelchairs and considered vital purchasing factors. We will cover product specifications of each wheelchair, including storage space, seat dimensions, brakes and wheel size. The information is meant to help you or your loved one acquire the best drive wheelchair for your needs.

Medline Lightweight Transport Adult Folding Wheelchair

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If you’re on the lookout for something that is lightweight and easily maneuverable, look no further than this beauty from Medline. Made from durable powder coated aluminum ultralight frame, this wheelchair can accommodate a weight capacity of up to 300 pounds. The design is user-friendly, with easy access to elevating leg rests and flip-back desk arms. You can lower and raise the seat back and arms to your liking. It also features 12” rear wheels that offer better performance even on rough terrain. The loop-style manual handbrakes will ensure that the rear wheels are locked during transfers. For easy storage, transport and travel, the portable back is collapsible.

Drive Medical Blue Streak Wheelchair

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Wondering which wheelchair to gift to your aging parents? You’ll never go wrong with the Drive Medical Blue Streak. If you are looking for a portable and customizable wheelchair, you should seriously consider this wheelchair. The cutting-edge design that will make things enjoyable. Thanks to customizable support enabled by a premium swing-away leg-rest, 18” padded nylon seat and detachable desk arms, your rides will never be the same. To offer a smooth ride tires are made of solid rubber and the push-to-lock wheels provide the maximum level of safety. A perfect blend of form and function, the construction quality is impeccable with steel and blue-powdered coated frame.

Drive Medical Cruiser III

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The Drive Medical Cruiser III is another fantastic option as it offers everything you need from a basic wheelchair – lightweight materials, an adjustable seat depth and padded armrests. Designed for comfort and reliability, this attractive and sturdy wheelchair is easy to fold for storage or travel. It is made of solid carbon steel frame with silver vein finish. It features removable flip-back arms that allow easy transfer. To provide a smooth transition of seat height, you get a dual axle. The mag-style wheels ensure a smooth ride and the chair’s nylon seat covering allows for easy cleaning. The wheelchair can accommodate weights of up to 300lbs.

NOVA Lightweight Transport Chair

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This wheelchair brings ease of use and practicability to the table. Also known as the Comet, standout features include feather-grip brakes on the handles, 12” rugged rear wheels and flip-back armrests for easy transfers. The back and seat are padded and upholstered, and it’s lightweight due to its folding aluminum frame. This model comes with NOVA’s patented feather touch locking handbrakes. The rear wheels lock solidly in place and the handbrakes offer added control. With a seat width of 18.5 inches, this model can comfortably hold up to 300lbs. On purchase, you receive a lifetime limited manufacturer’s warranty.

Karman Lightweight Transport Wheelchair

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Even if you have a tight budget, you can still find a wheelchair with desirable features. This lightweight wheelchair has a folding design, detachable armrests and footrests, and a wide seat, features that qualify it to our list. Designed to be driven by caretakers, brakes accommodate hands-free operation to minimize strain on caretakers. By letting them press the brakes down without necessarily bending down, this makes frequent stops much easier. Whether you want a wheelchair for occasional use around the neighborhood, or for long trips this model is an excellent choice. For storage, the chair folds in half to take up as little space as possible. The wide seat measuring 19” wide offers options for plus size users.

Conclusion

Wheelchairs serve an important role for folks with impaired mobility. They are an essential and necessary part of seniors lives when they have the need or desire to move around the house or community and have a fully functioning life when walking is no longer possible. When you are ready to purchase, pick with confidence from our recommended products. Whether you’re searching for a stopgap solution when temporarily off your feet or a workhorse to power your way through day-to-day activities, there’s a drive wheelchair for you in our list.

If a wheelchair doesn’t fit the bill, check out some of the best options for rollators or mobility scooters available today!