A wheelchair that works well is important to the lifestyle, mobility, and safety of the person who uses it. Doing regular maintenance, making as-needed adjustments, and doing occasional repairs help the wheelchair to function at it’s best. Knowing each of the wheelchair parts and understanding how they work is also important. In this article, we will discuss a few simple wheelchair repairs that you can make yourself, as well as some tips for how to do them.
To begin with, become familiar with your wheelchair, whether manual or power, and learn all aspects of your chair. Learn how each part functions. Knowing how the wheelchair should work will help you to be aware when a change occurs.
Have a simple wheelchair repair kit handy at all times, even when you are away from home. Remember that old Boy Scout motto: “Be Prepared”. Create your repair kit with items like a screwdriver (make sure you have both regular and philips-head if your chair uses both kinds of screws), an adjustable wrench, pliers, and a tire-changing kit. With these simple items, whether you have wheel problems, need to tighten a bolt or screw, or even change a tire, you will be ready!
So what are some simple wheelchair repairs you can make on your own?
* Does your wheelchair have any adjustable straps on the back? They can become loose over time and need regular adjusting.
* The seat upholstery also often causes problems, as it can sag over time, affecting your posture. This can be easily fixed on some wheelchairs by removing one side from the frame, pulling the material tight, and replacing the seat once again.
* A common wheelchair problem involves the caster axles. Materials like hair and thread frequently get caught, which can impede normal movement of the chair. To repair, remove the caster using two wrenches: one holds the axle bolt in place and the other is used to unscrew the nut. (Be sure to keep track of the 2 small spacers located on either side of the wheel!) Then, simply use a damp cloth or paper towel to clean the caster, and then replace.
* Needless to say, regularly clean the wheelchair to remove dust and dirt particles. A microfiber cloth will do this job best.
* Finally, while there are a number of easy and straightforward repairs that you can make on your own, do not attempt to replace any electric wheelchair part yourself.
Regular maintenance will go a long way towards keeping your wheelchair performing at it’s best, and reduce the need for costly repairs. Simple repairs can be done on your own however if you don’t feel you can handle preventative maintenance or repairing wheelchair parts on your own, ask a family member, friend, or neighbor to assist you.
N. Bobby was caregiver & advocate for her aging parents for nearly a decade, and has experienced many of the difficulties experienced by adult children who care for their aging parents. She provides resources related to caring for the aging and disabled at Aging Parent Conversations. Before you replace any wheelchair parts, learn more about simple wheelchair parts repair.
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