9
characteristics of rear wheel drives, they may be a good choice for heavy outdoors
use and/or if you want high speed.
On the downside, much of the user weight is placed above the drive wheels
limiting curb climbing ability. Also revolving casters limit footrest placement
options.
Ability to accept a ventilator
If you child is likely to need a ventilator in a few years, you will need a wheelchair that
can support it. It may mean that you need to opt for a bigger, more rugged base than you
would otherwise. Keep in mind the size and weight of the ventilator as well as all other
accessories you may need to carry (i.e. suction machine). Also choose a configuration
where you can still use the seat functions if a ventilator is added.
Seat to floor height
Seat to floor height of the wheelchair is very important. Small children benefit from
sitting low to the ground, being on peer level for most activities. A generic preschool
table is 19” at the bottom from the floor. With the child’s thigh and the wheelchair
cushion, it places the necessary seat to floor height low if she is to be able to participate
in table activities in a typical/mainstream preschool.
However, it is ideal if they can also have access to family dining room, bookshelves,
kitchen counters, etc. This need can be met with elevating seats and/or seats that move to
the floor; however, there may be funding difficulties. During the evaluation carefully
assess how high the seat is from the ground, and what your child needs during her typical
daily activities.
Transportability
Some wheelchairs come standard with tie town attachment points, while some offer it as
an option. It is likely that you child will need those when taking the school bus. As for
private transportation, most manufacturers recommend that the child be transported
outside the wheelchair in a regular, or specially adapted booster seat. Do not let the large
size and the weight of a power chair intimidate you – while it does not fit a regular family
sedan, there are alternative and economical transportation options for minivans and
SUVs, especially if the child is not seated in the wheelchair. Should you be looking for a
crash tested wheelchair? In reality few power wheelchairs are crash tested and crash
testing standards are only voluntary. While it might be a consideration, keep in mind that
it would significantly limit your choices.
Transportable or folding power chairs
A folding power chair may sound like a good idea, but in reality, with today’s
technology, it may be a bit of an oxymoron. A folding, transportable power chair needs to
be very light weight by nature, therefore it is likely to compromise drive performance. It
may be a good idea as a secondary chair or for lighter use, but consider all variables
before you opt for one as a primary mobility device for significantly involved children.
