March 1 is International Wheelchair Day – a day we can celebrate the assistive device that keeps millions mobile. There are many different wheelchairs each with its own function from power or manual wheelchairs to sport wheelchairs. They are also used by various industries and people. It could help transport patients, assist the elderly or be a daily mobility device for people with disabilities – specifically those with mobility impairments.
To celebrate this amazing device, we have rounded up some of our top articles on wheelchairs from the history of the wheelchair to tips and tricks to better caring for your chair.
A brief history
The modern wheelchair as we know it today was only developed in the 1930s! Herbert Everest, a person with a disability, and Harry Jennings invented the first lightweight, steel, folding, portable wheelchair in 1933. Both were mechanical engineers and their design was mass produced, making it the first wheelchair to be mass-marketed.
Read more here.
Manual chair maintenance
Wheelchairs are expensive, but incredibly essential. Fortunately, it is easy to extend your chair’s life by ensuring you service, repair and clean your wheelchair frequently. Additionally, regular maintenance can ensure your chair performs at its best at all times. We share some tips on maintaining your manual chair.
Read more here.
Preventative care for power chair
It is possible to keep your wheelchair in good working condition for many years. To make the maintenance of a power wheelchair easy, we provided a checklist for the daily, weekly, monthly and yearly maintenance that will keep your chair going.
Read more here.
Wheelchairs for Amputees
While most amputees rely on a prosthesis for mobility, they can also benefit from the use of a wheelchair. Heinrich Grimsehl explains all the benefits.
Read more here.
