SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
Part No 1125027
21
Solara
®
/Spree GT
™
To assure stability and proper operation of your wheelchair, you MUST at all times
maintain proper balance. Your wheelchair has been designed to remain upright and
stable during normal daily activities as long as you do not move beyond the center of
gravity.
Virtually all activities which involve movement in the wheelchair have an effect on the
center of gravity. Invacare recommends using seat/chest positioning straps for additional
safety while involved in activities that shift your weight.
DO NOT lean forward out of the wheelchair any further than the length of the armrests.
Make sure the casters are pointing in the forward position whenever you lean forward.
This can be achieved by advancing the wheelchair and then reversing it in a straight line.
The Invacare Solara/Spree GT wheelchair should be operated by an assistant when the
wheelchair is in any tilted position.
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat or pick
them up from the floor by reaching down between your knees.
The back height, seat depth, back angle, seating system, tilt angle, seat height, size/
position of the rear wheels, size/position of the front casters, as well as the user con-
dition directly relate to the stability of the wheelchair. Any change to one or any
combination of the eleven may cause the wheelchair to decrease in stability. These
adjustments MUST be performed by a qualified technician.
NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 2.1.
Many activities require the wheelchair
user to reach, bend and transfer in and out
of the wheelchair. These movements will
cause a change to normal balance, center of
gravity, and weight distribution of the
wheelchair. To determine and establish
your particular safety limits, practice
bending, reaching and transferring
activities in several combinations in the
presence of a qualified healthcare
professional BEFORE attempting active
use of the wheelchair.
Proper positioning is essential for your
safety. When reaching, leaning, bending or
bending forward, it is important to use the
casters as a tool to maintain stability and
balance.
FIGURE 2.1
Stability and Balance
UNOCCUPIED
OCCUPIED
CENTER OF
GRAVITY
