Transit Wheelchairs: A Down-to-Earth Guide to Getting Around

The Good Bits: What Makes Some Transit Chairs Better Than Others

Not gonna lie - some transit chairs are rubbish! When we bought one for Mum, the first one we got had handles so low I was practically bent double pushing her (I'm 6'2"). We took it back the next day!

How Heavy Are We Talking?

Most decent ones weigh between 8-14kg. The aluminum ones are lightest but can be a bit pricier. Steel ones are cheaper but heavier.

Little tip from someone who's loaded these things into car boots approximately 5,000 times: those extra few kilos make a MASSIVE difference when you're in a rush or tired!

Folding Them Up

Have you ever wrestled with a folding chair in a crowded doctor's waiting room while everyone watches? Nightmare! The good ones fold with a simple pull on a strap or lever. Some of the cheaper ones require the strength of Hercules and the patience of a saint.

My sister got one that folds completely flat - absolute game-changer for her tiny flat.

Comfy or Not?

Look, no wheelchair is going to feel like your favorite armchair, but some are definitely better than others. My mum complained non-stop about her first chair until we upgraded to one with:

• Padded armrests (makes a huge difference!)

• A cushioned seat (the ones with just stretched fabric are murder on the bum after 20 minutes)

• Footrests that actually adjust (dangling feet = misery)

Safety Stuff

This is the boring bit but it matters. Good brakes are essential - we learned this the hard way when Aunt Bea's chair rolled away at Tesco. Not funny at the time (though we laugh about it now). Make sure the brakes are easy to use and actually, you know, WORK.

Different Types for Different Folks

There's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to these chairs. Here's what I've found after trying about a dozen different ones with various family members:

Basic No-Frills Models

These start around £80-£150. They do the job, but don't expect bells and whistles. Fine if you only need it occasionally or for short trips. My neighbor has one he keeps just for hospital appointments.

The Lightweight Champions

These cost more (usually £150-£300) but weigh next to nothing. My sister has one she can lift with one hand! Brilliant if you're going to be getting it in and out of the car a lot.

Comfort Kings

If you're going to be sitting in it for hours, these are worth the extra money (about £200-£400). My mum's got one with extra padding and adjustable everything. She can sit through an entire day at the garden centre now without complaining (much).

Special Needs Ones

There are wider transit wheelchairs designed for larger individuals, ultra-narrow ones for navigating tight doorways, and even reclining models for added comfort. They may cost more, but the right features can make all the difference!

How to Choose Without Tearing Your Hair Out

I'm not going to pretend this is simple, but here's what I've learned after making every mistake in the book:

Think About Who's Going to Use It

Be realistic about:

• Their actual size and weight (not what they CLAIM it is!)

• How long they'll be sitting in it at a stretch

• Whether they can get in and out easily or need help

• Any special issues like sore hips or back problems

Don't Forget About the Poor Sod Pushing It!

I pushed my dad around for a week in a chair with handles that hit me at hip level. My back still hasn't forgiven me. Make sure:

• The handles are the right height for whoever's pushing

• It's not too heavy for the pusher to manage

• The pusher can work the brakes and folding mechanism

Where Will You Be Using It?

We bought Mum a lovely chair that turned out to be too wide for her hallway. Facepalm moment! Think about:

• Doorway widths at home

• What kind of surfaces you'll be pushing on (carpet is the WORST)

• How much space you have to store it

• Whether it needs to fit in your car

Money Talk

They range from about £80 for basic models up to £600+ for all singing, all dancing ones. Don't forget:

• The NHS might provide one (though be prepared for a wait)

• Some charities loan them out

• You might find a decent second-hand one (just check it over carefully)

• You don't pay VAT if it's for someone with a disability

Getting Out and About Without the Stress

Once you've got your chair, here are some hard-won tips:

Planning Trips

• Google places before you go - "wheelchair accessible" means different things to different people!

• Don't be shy about ringing ahead and asking specific questions

• Take a portable ramp if steps are likely (we keep one in the car)

I'll never forget taking Mum to that "accessible" tea room that had a "small step" - which turned out to be six inches high and nearly tipped us both into a display of scones!

Making Home Life Easier

You don't need to rebuild your house, but a few tweaks help:

• Move stuff out of the way to create clear paths

• Think about getting small threshold ramps for doorways

• Keep the chair somewhere handy but not in the way

Looking After Your Chair

They're not maintenance-free, despite what the salesperson might tell you!

• Wipe it down regularly (especially after it's been outside)

• Check and tighten wobbly bits before they fall off

• Oil squeaky parts

• Check the brakes actually work

My uncle ignored a squeaky wheel for months until the bearing completely seized up during a family wedding. Don't be like my uncle.

What's Coming Down the Pike?

I was at a mobility show last month and saw some cool new chairs with:

• Super lightweight materials that weigh almost nothing

• Better brakes that you can lock from the push handles

• More stylish designs that don't scream "MEDICAL EQUIPMENT!"

• Funky colours beyond the usual boring black