Wheelchair accessories can be added to any manual or power wheelchair's frame to increase the driver's comfort, improve her function or safety and enhance the look of the wheelchair. From headrests to custom footrests, products are available through pharmacies, department stores, medical suppliers and catalogues as well as on-line to meet many needs.
Options Upon Wheelchair Purchase
Accessories may be ordered when you first purchase your wheelchair. Options at that time include height adjustable or flip-up armrests, elevating or swing-in or -out footrests, angle-adjustable footplates, caddies, anti-tip tubes, one-arm drives, reclining backs, tilting seats, seat elevators, headrests, transit tie downs, back packs, rigid foot platforms, shock absorbers, specialized wheels, flat-free inserts for pneumatic tires, light-up casters, side guards, spoke guards, seat belts, swing-away joystick clamps, crutch holders and heel loops.
Seating Components
Many accessories pertain to positioning. These can be set into the chair or bracketed to the frame.They can be ordered in custom sizes when the wheelchair is purchased or added later if the driver's condition changes. Gel, foam or air seat cushions, contoured backs with trunk and hip bolsters, adjustable headrests and shoulder harnesses are typical. Foot straps, calf straps and forehead straps are also available. Medical suppliers and therapists can recommend those most appropriate for the driver's needs.
Accessories for ADLs
Activities of daily living (ADLs) require specialized wheelchair accessories. Options include lap trays, cup holders with extended straws, arm troughs to stabilize an affected limb, feeding slings to allow lift and range of motion of an affected arm and communication devices.
Other Add Ons
A wheelchair may be individualized in many ways that make the chair unique and meet the particular needs of the driver. Side pouches for cell phones and keys, under-seat carriers, front flip-down caddies and swing-away half lap trays make carrying items easier. Cambered wheels with specialized tires make wheelchair sports more enjoyable. Customized frame and fork colors make the look one of a kind.
Acessories for Medical Equipment
For a driver with complex medical needs, options include oxygen holders, vent trays, feeding hooks, gimbaled trays for batteries and suction equipment, back packs for tubing and brackets for attaching humidifiers. Many medical suppliers now customize attachment to minimize the medical appearance of multiple accessories.
Considerations
Any accessory added to the wheelchair's frame will increase its weight. If the driver uses a manual wheelchair and fatigues easily, the weight of an accessory should be considered. Adding an accessory may affect how the wheelchair functions. If a wide lap tray is attached, the driver may not be able to reach the hand-rims to propel. Consider the impact on the driver for any option.
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