How to Choose the Right Transit Wheelchair: Key Features Explained

When a person cannot walk long distances on their own, even short distances become difficult. Going to the toilet, getting to an appointment or going out with family often means relying on others. Many users cannot maneuver large wheelchairs or do not have the strength to move them themselves. Without the right equipment, it can be difficult for caregivers as well. It takes time and effort to move a person safely from one place to another.

Transit wheelchairs are designed for this type of use. They are pushed by an attendant, are lightweight to carry and easily fold up when not needed. Most care homes stock several wheelchairs for everyday use.

In this guide we'll look at how transit wheelchairs work, how they compare to other models, and what to consider when choosing one for home or care.

What Is A Transit Wheelchair?

Transit wheelchairs are designed to be pushed by another person. They do not have hand rims on the rear wheels. Most have push handles at the back and footrests that swing away or detach. Some also have folding frames for storage or travel.

They are used in temporary situations, such as after a hospital stay, and for long term use where a person cannot manage their own movement. In care settings, these chairs are used for daily transfers and for taking users out into the garden or to an activity.

Because the wheels at the back are smaller, these chairs are easier to lift into a vehicle or move through tight spaces. They are often kept near entrances in hospitals or clinics for short journeys inside the building. Many models are light enough to be carried by one person.

Chairs like these are often fitted with brakes on the handles, which can be used by the person pushing. Some also come with seat belts or anti tip bars for extra safety. Most transit chairs are fitted with solid tyres to reduce maintenance.

The Difference Between Self Propelled and Transit Chairs

The main difference is in how the chair is moved. A self propelled wheelchair has large wheels at the back. The person sitting in the chair can move themselves using the hand rims. A transit wheelchair has smaller rear wheels and is pushed by another person.

Self propelled models are used by people who want to move themselves around. They may use the chair inside the home or outside where space allows. These chairs give the user more independence but are heavier to lift and wider across the back wheels.

Transit chairs are chosen when the user cannot move the chair or finds it too tiring. It's lighter, easy to push, and more compact. This makes them better suited for carers who need to lift the chair into a car or take it through narrow doorways.

Both types may be used in the same setting. Some users prefer a self propelled model for outdoor use and a transit chair for indoors or travel. It depends on the strength and needs of the person using the chair and on who is helping them.

Lightweight Folding Transit Wheelchairs

Where the chair needs to be lifted and stored often, a lightweight folding model is usually preferred. These are made from aluminium and are easier to carry than standard steel frames. Most can be folded across the middle. Some models also have a folding back to reduce height.

This type is often used when space is limited or where the carer needs to place the chair into the car boot. It is also suitable for travel or for use on public transport. The frame is light and folds flat which makes handling easier.

Most models have swing-away footrests and fixed solid tyres. Some include padded arms. The seat and back are usually fabric and can be wiped down. Cushions can be added if needed. These do not affect how the chair folds.

This type is useful in care settings and in the home. Where the user cannot push themselves and the carer needs to lift the chair often, this type is usually preferred.

Folding Transit Wheelchairs

Many transit wheelchairs are folding models which make them particularly suitable for travel or occasional use. The frame folds inwards at the centre, and the footrests can be removed or swung to the side to make the chair more compact.

If you’re planning a holiday and flying, it’s worth checking for wheelchair hire services aimed at travellers. This can save space and reduce hassle during the journey. In general, your own or rented wheelchair will be placed in the hold of the plane and for the waiting period and boarding time you will be provided with a transit wheelchair from your travel partner.

Folding chairs should have very strong locking system and durable joints to keep them stable in use. Poorly built models can twist or loosen over time, especially with regular folding.

Lightweight Folding Transit Wheelchairs

They are one of the easiest sort of wheelchair to manage. The lightest frame with very simple folding design make them a good choice for daily use, especially when getting in and out of cars or moving around less spaces.

When selecting a wheelchair for travel or day trips, weight and size become more important. Try to choose a chair that folds without fuss and has somewhere solid to hold when lifting. If it’s easy to carry or get into the car boot, it takes a lot of strain off the person helping.

A narrower chair is easier to steer through doorways and along narrow hallways, particularly in older houses or smaller buildings.

Features like quick release footrests, puncture-proof tyres and breathable seat covers are common on these models and help make things more comfortable for everyday use.

Best Transit Wheelchairs in the UK

We often receive enquiries of this nature from nursing homes and residential homes here in the UK who are wanting to buy replacement wheelchairs. The majority of nursing homes make sure to have a variety of wheelchairs available to ensure that they are able to provide adequately for all of their patients.

Some of the more popular models used in the UK include:

Models with quick release wheels and swing away footrests
Chairs with anti tip features for added stability
Upholstery that can be removed and washed for better hygiene
Folding aluminium transit chairs with lap straps and padded armrests

These are commonly used in both private homes and professional care settings. Where a chair may be shared between users, it’s important that it is comfortable, easy to adjust and straightforward to clean.

Choosing the Right Transit Wheelchair

When choosing a transit wheelchair there are a few things to consider:

Seat width – Use the seat width as a guide, 18 inches is standard. For larger users bariatric or heavy duty models may be required.
Maximum user weight – Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for maximum weight capacity.
Folding mechanism – A chair that folds quickly and easily makes transport and storage a doddle.
Footrests and armrests – These should be adjustable or removable where possible for transfers and positioning.
Brakes – Attendant operated brakes are essential for safety especially on slopes or uneven ground.

If the wheelchair will be used indoors and outdoors consider the size and type of wheels. Some chairs include larger rear wheels to improve stability on rougher ground. Solid tyres work well across most surfaces and help avoid punctures.

Chairs used in the home should be easy to keep clean. Removable covers or wipe-down cushions are useful, and some models come with anti-bacterial upholstery as standard.

In general the chair should be comfortable, practical and well built. It should suit the user’s height and weight and be easy for the carer to manage.

Conclusion

Transit wheelchairs are one of the most practical mobility aids out there, especially for users who can’t move independently. Their lighter frame, folding design and ease of use makes them suitable for all environments from hospital to home.

Whether you need a chair for occasional use or as part of daily care the right transit wheelchair will make transfers safer, journeys easier and the whole experience more comfortable for everyone involved.

If you have any specific requirements or would like some advice before you buy a transit wheelchair then please give us a call and we’ll point you in the right direction for your needs.

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