The concept behind standing wheelchairs in undeniably great. They help people stand who otherwise can’t and offer all the benefits that come along with standing - pressure relief, reaching dishes in cupboards, talking to people face to face, among several others. These are all things that a standard wheelchair just can’t offer. This combined with the fact that the cost of this technology is becoming more and more affordable makes it seem like the decision is a no-brainer, but standing wheelchairs aren’t for everyone and could potentially do more harm than good.
If you aren’t sure if a standing wheelchair is right for you, this guide should help with your decision. So, let’s start at the beginning.
Who does a standing wheelchair make sense for?
You may be asking yourself, “is a standing wheelchair worth it?” The answer to this question depends on your circ*mstances. The first step is to identify whether or not you can physically support your weight on your lower extremities without complications. It’s important that you consult your healthcare professional if you have any doubts whatsoever.
If you’ve identified that yes, you are physically capable of supporting your weight, let’s look at the reasons you would want to make the move to a standing wheelchair.
- For physiological benefits
- For psychological benefits
- For practicality
- For a versatile secondary chair
For physiological benefits
The physiological benefits of standing in a standing wheelchair are impressive. For example, standing improves blood circulation, breathing, intestinal processes, and balance of the upper body. Loading weight onto the bones of the legs can prevent osteoporosis and potential fractures, as well as align the trunk and lower extremities correctly. Standing relieves the pressure on the ischia and prevents pressure ulcers. It can even keep users with lower awareness awake and alert to stimuli in their environment.
For psychological benefits
The change in perspective while standing can be powerful. Changing positions, seeing your environment from a different angle, and even just the sensation of standing itself can all affect the user’s psyche. Being able to speak face-to-face to people can have a huge social impact. For a first-hand account of how standing can affect someone’s life, take a look at this interview with a standing wheelchair user.
For practicality
Standing opens up new opportunities in almost every environment. At home, you can stand at your kitchen sink and counters, reach objects in overhead cupboards and closets, and reach lamps and light fixtures that wouldn’t otherwise be accessible. While out shopping, you can reach products on upper shelves and easily order or pay over high counters. Chores are easier with a standing wheelchair so you can spend more time on the important things.
For a versatile secondary chair
Not willing to give up your streamlined rigid chair? That’s ok now that standing wheelchairs are more affordable. It’s no longer unrealistic to consider both. You can switch between them as needed.
Who shouldn’t get a standing wheelchair?
If you:
- Have rigidity concerns that don’t allow you to assume a standing position
- Have any unresolved fractures in the lower extremities
- Have any history of dislocations in the lower extremities
- Aren’t in a state of awareness suitable to operate the standing function
- Have a condition that causes spastic movements that could cause stability issues
Who should get a standing wheelchair?
- Anyone who’s physical condition doesn’t prevent assuming a standing position and can benefit from the numerous physiological, psychological and practical benefits
- Anyone looking for a highly versatile manual wheelchair
- Anyone looking for a secondary wheelchair that can complement the function of their primary wheelchair
Still undecided about a standing wheelchair?
If you’re still undecided, feel free to reach out to us and try one for yourself or ask questions. Nothing beats first-hand experience.
