Transit wheelchairs provide a simple and safe solution for short journeys and transportation of individuals with mobility issues. In this article we’ll explain:
– What a transit wheelchair is
– How to choose the best transit wheelchair
– Whether a transport wheelchair is best suited to you
If you’re considering purchasing a transit wheelchair, here we’ll explain which type of person they are best suited to, how they can benefit you and how to choose the right model for your needs.
A transit wheelchair is a special type of wheelchair with small wheels, making them easier to manoeuvre. They are also known as transport wheelchairs and transit chairs. They are best used for quick, easy and safe transportation of elderly or disabled people between locations.
There are advantages both for carers and wheelchair users, as maximised comfort and safety plus lighter weight and ease of control makes them a great option for everyday use.
Transit wheelchairs are generally considered as a temporary, short-term or low use option. They are not suitable for rough terrain, long journeys or extended outdoor use. They also need to be pushed by an assistant or carer. Transit wheelchairs are ideal for:
– Days out and day trips
– Use on holiday
– Help getting in and out of the house or to and from vehicles
– Short trips to the shops
– Assistance when attending hospital or medical appointments
– The elderly, infirm or disabled
– Low-level mobility issues
Transit wheelchairs provide a simple and safe solution for short journeys and transportation of individuals with mobility issues. In this article we’ll explain:
– What a transit wheelchair is
– How to choose a lightweight transit wheelchair
– Whether a transport wheelchair is best suited to you
If you’re considering purchasing a transit wheelchair, here we’ll explain which type of person they are best suited to, how they can benefit you and how to choose the right model for your needs.
A transit wheelchair is a special type of wheelchair with small wheels, making them easier to manoeuvre. They are also known as transport wheelchairs and transit chairs. They are best used for quick, easy and safe transportation of elderly or disabled people between locations.
There are advantages both for carers and wheelchair users, as maximised comfort and safety plus lighter weight and ease of control makes them a great option for everyday use.
Transit wheelchairs are generally considered as a temporary, short-term or low use option. They are not suitable for rough terrain, long journeys or extended outdoor use. They also need to be pushed by an assistant or carer. Transit wheelchairs are ideal for:
– Days out and day trips
– Use on holiday
– Help getting in and out of the house or to and from vehicles
– Short trips to the shops
– Assistance when attending hospital or medical appointments
– The elderly, infirm or disabled
– Low-level mobility issues
There are several different types of transport wheelchair available for you to choose from. The majority of wheelchairs are self-propelled. Your choice will depend on your needs and your lifestyle, as well as your personal preferences. Types available include:
– Steel wheelchair: Steel is a versatile and robust – offering superior strength and good value for money. Hardwearing and sturdy, steel is also waterproof. Steel chairs are generally less expensive than other variations – usually costing around £60-70.
– Lightweight transit wheelchair: Most transit wheelchairs are lightweight by nature – but some are even easier to lift and assemble to allow for quick and simple use for carers and wheelchair users. Lightweight wheelchairs are best if you’ll be using it on a regular basis and would like to ensure that it is easier to push and fold for your carer or family member. You can read our guide to buying a lightweight wheelchair here.
– Aluminium: Aluminium is naturally a lightweight material – but it’s also robust and suitable for days out.
– Compact: Although transit wheelchairs are generally smaller in size than standard wheelchairs, there are even more compact models on offer. These are perfect for small cars and anyone without sufficient storage for a larger model. As most compact models can be folded they can easily be stored and transported.
– Hybrid: Hybrid models combine the convenience of a wheelchair with the versatility of a walking frame or rollator. They can be used in a number of ways to provide relief when walking or full support depending on the situation. This type of transit wheelchair is ideal for individuals with low-level mobility needs who need a little support and assistance whilst out and about.
– Heavy duty: Heavy duty wheelchairs offer an exceptionally robust option for those who are disabled or need to use their wheelchair more frequently. They are made from sturdy components – usually chrome-plated steel and toughened construction for superior rigidity and support.
All aspects of heavy duty transit chairs tend to be fully adjustable – such as foot plates and arm rests. These are the types of wheelchair you’ll most commonly see in a healthcare setting or hospital.
– Bariatric: A Bariatric transit wheelchair is a
– Luxury: Some wheelchairs are marketed as ‘luxury.’ These are generally more expensive and have additional features such as comfort padding, leather upholstery and even different colours and designs. Generally these wheelchairs don’t offer superior quality service – they may just look more attractive and be slightly more comfortable.
There are also power wheelchairs that you could look at. These are generally electrified and don’t require manual pushing.
Transit wheelchairs are generally more flexible and easier to fold down, assemble and store than standard wheelchair models. Other than that they often appear to be very similar – so it’s very important to be aware of their specific characteristics and the type of person they are best suited to.
One main difference between transit chairs and standard wheelchairs is wheel size. Transit chairs generally have four smaller wheels – for easy manoeuvring and suitability in smaller spaces. Standard wheelchairs and self-propelled models have a larger set of wheels at the back and a slightly smaller set at the front.
This is a good way to distinguish what type of wheelchair you are looking at if it is not clearly labelled or you are unsure.
Transit wheelchairs are best suited to you if you:
– Need everyday assistance getting out and about
– Would like to be able to go on holiday or attend day trips or events without lack of mobility or disability holding you back
– Often attend hospital or medical appointments and need help getting to and from the clinic or surgery
– Lead an active social life but feel loss of mobility is holding you back
A different type of wheelchair might be better suited to you if:
– You need a wheelchair you can use on a frequent and regular basis
– You would like to get around without additional support or assistance. For this you may need a self-propelled or electric wheelchair
– You have additional needs and support requirements – such as loss of balance, chronic pain or difficulty sitting up
– You need a wheelchair that supports additional activities such as sports
– You want to be able to get around quickly
– You’d like to be able to go for long distances on rough or uneven terrain
You can find details of other types of wheelchairs and mobility aids here on the UK Care Guide website. Take a look at our informative article archive here.
There are several things to consider when shopping for a transit chair. It’s best to be prepared and consider before you start to shop, as this ensures that you choose the best option for you. Things to take into account include:
– Budget: How much do you have to spend? When purchasing mobility products it’s important to strike a balance between affordability and quality. Aim for best value for money – not the cheapest or most expensive option. Ideally you should purchase a wheelchair that will last and stand the test of time for a few years to come.
– Needs: Which type of transit chair will best suit your needs? To determine that you’ll need to have a good understanding of your state of health and mobility. Consider how you will use the wheelchair and how it could benefit you. If you are unsure, speak to family and friends who know you well, or make an appointment with your general practitioner, social worker or specialist.
– Prognosis: A wheelchair purchase isn’t always cheap – so it’s sensible to make sure that the model you choose can cater to your needs both now and in the future. Speak to a healthcare practitioner regarding your prognosis and err on the side of caution. Choose a model that will be useful to you both now and in the future.
– Lifestyle: One way to determine exactly how will the chair be used is to think about your current lifestyle. Do you go out a lot? Are you constantly on the go? Or do you spend most of your time at home, but would love to be able to go out for the day with friends? Your lifestyle and daily or regular activities will influence the type of wheelchair you choose.
– Storage: Where will the wheelchair be stored? It’s important to think about the size of your home, the size of your vehicle and who will be putting the wheelchair away. If you have a flat or live upstairs it will also need to be carried. Consult with carers, family members or friends who will be assembling, putting down and carrying the wheelchair.
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