DisabilityMobility.com

One of the worst tragedies in life is the loss of one's ability to walk. It happens to most of us at one period in our lifetimes, especially if we grow old enough to have various health problems. Also, those who are unfortunate enough to have accidents are especially prone to losing their mobility.

This is, indeed, a tragic time in life. Walking to where you like to go might seem like a mundane experience for most of us. But to those who have lost this ability, the want to go somewhere becomes more emphasized, and the inability to do so makes things increasingly frustrating. The worst part about it is that with the loss of mobility also comes the loss of freedom. Sometimes it can be restored in a few months time, but there are times when it can't. Still, you must not lose hope. It's not the end of everything. You can buy a wheelchair. It won't restore your freedom entirely, but it's infinitely much better than nothing.

First, though, you have to determine particularly what type of wheelchair you require.

Manual Wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs are those that can be propelled by mechanical means. Mainly, this type of wheelchair is utilized when the person still has control of both his arms and has sufficient strength in them to move the wheels and propel himself forward or backward. Or, if the person has a caregiver who can move the wheelchair when needed, then the manual wheelchair is preferable. What's good about it is that it's quite affordable and it can aid the person maintain strong muscles, at least in the arms.

Electric-powered Wheelchairs

Electric-powered wheelchairs, on the other hand, are wheelchairs that are propelled through the power of electricity. Commonly, this is used for elderly people and for those who cannot use their arms for propulsion. They're also used by those who have heart problems. Its speed and direction can usually be controlled by the use of a joystick. Those who are unable to use a joystick, however, have choices such as chin control. Also, electric-powered wheelchairs are oftentimes designed for indoor use exclusively or for outdoor use. But it's generally better to buy the one designed as both an electric-powered wheelchairs can be very costly. Luckily, those who truly need one but cannot buy an electronic wheelchair can be issued one by various organizations.

If you are a wheelchair user, or know someone who is, there have undoubtedly been times when your wheelchair has just not "acted right". You may have wondered if you were going to need to replace any parts, or have your chair repaired. The good news is that many Invacare wheelchair parts are readily available and often simple replacement of a part can fix your problem quickly and easily.

It can be difficult to know if you do actually need to replace any wheelchair parts. However, there are some typical problems that can indicate faulty parts, and the need to replace them. Some affect the movement of the chair, while others are actual safety issues. You should consider replacing some wheelchair parts if any of the following situations happens:

* If the wheelchair seems inclined to tip over backwards, it might be due to unused or broken anti-tippers, a bent frame, or a seating system that is installed incorrectly.

* If the wheelchair does not fold properly, it may also be due to a bent frame.

* If the wheel locks do not function correctly, the hardware may be loose, the wheel locks may be broken, or the tires may be worn.

* If there is a problem pushing the wheelchair, it may be due to flat pneumatic tires, misaligned wheel axles, or a bent frame.

While problems using your wheelchair may indicate that repairs are needed, it does not always have to mean an expensive visit to the repair shop. Many Invacare wheelchair parts are easily found online, and you can replace them yourself without much problem. Before this even occurs however, be certain to know everything about your Invacare wheelchair, and become familiar with how each part functions. Learn where you can order replacement parts easily and securely, and always follow the Invacare recommended wheelchair maintenance. With all this in mind, if or when your wheelchair does not function correctly, you will be prepared with the knowledge and information to order the parts you need, and very possibly make a simple repair on your own.

Planning to repair an Invacare wheelchair? Before you do, check out Nan Bobby's tips to replacing Invacare wheelchair parts. As the caregiver & advocate for her aging parents for nearly a decade, she experienced the many challenges of adult children caring for aging parents, & now provides a resource center on eldercare and disability issues at Aging Parent Conversations.