How to Choose the Right Wheelchair for Your Needs

Choosing the right wheelchair is an important step in supporting independence, comfort, and mobility. Whether needed for short-term recovery or long-term use, a wheelchair must match the person’s physical condition, environment, and daily routine. Selecting the wrong fit can lead to discomfort, reduced mobility, and increased risk of injury.

At Vista Healthcare, we support clients through the entire process of choosing a wheelchair. With guidance from our occupational therapists, we focus on individual needs, correct measuring and fitting, and provide clinical assessments for equipment funding through the NDIS.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Wheelchair

Each person who uses a wheelchair has different mobility goals, physical needs, and support requirements. This is why choosing a wheelchair involves more than picking a model from a list. Instead, it should begin with a careful assessment of personal, environmental, and functional factors.

Some key considerations include:

• Mobility goals. Will the chair be used independently or with support from a carer? Will it be used indoors only, outdoors, or both?
• Physical condition. Consider strength, coordination, posture, balance, and any ongoing conditions affecting movement.
• Transport and portability. Does the wheelchair need to fold for car travel? Will it be stored or transported frequently?
• Living environment. Is the space wide enough for easy movement? Are there ramps or steps to consider?
• Duration of use. Is the wheelchair required for occasional use, daily support, or permanent mobility?
• Postural support. Does the person need specialised cushions, backrests, or lateral supports for pressure care or stability?

A professional wheelchair OT assessment helps ensure these factors are considered in full. The result is a solution that improves function and safety, rather than causing limitations.

Manual vs. Power Wheelchairs

There are two broad categories of wheelchairs: manual and powered. The best choice depends on the person’s physical ability, the level of independence desired, and the nature of their environment.

Manual wheelchairs are moved using the hands or pushed by a support person. They are lighter, easier to transport, and generally cost less. Manual chairs are suited to individuals who have enough upper body strength to propel themselves or who have regular support from a carer.

Power wheelchairs run on battery power and are controlled with a joystick or switch. They offer greater independence for individuals with limited physical strength or coordination. These chairs can be customised with head controls, tilt functions, and specialised seating for maximum support.

Both types can be fitted with cushions, leg rests, postural supports, and accessories. The decision between a manual and power chair should be based on a clinical review and functional needs, not just convenience or cost. Vista Healthcare assists with these decisions through structured wheelchair OT assessments.

The Role of OT in Wheelchair Prescription

Occupational therapists play a central role in wheelchair prescription. Their job is to match the wheelchair to the individual’s physical condition, functional goals, and support needs, while also considering the home and community environment.

An OT assessment for wheelchair prescription often includes:

• Observing how the person transfers, moves, and maintains posture
• Measuring the body for correct fit and support
• Identifying postural or pressure care requirements
• Recommending specific features or add-ons
• Trialling equipment with the client
• Liaising with suppliers and completing NDIS or funding documentation

This process helps ensure the wheelchair supports daily activities rather than creating new barriers. It also helps prevent problems such as pressure sores, shoulder strain, and poor posture. The therapist can also provide advice on mobility training, equipment handling, and carer involvement.

Vista Healthcare’s occupational therapists conduct assessments in the person’s own environment, which allows us to make accurate and practical recommendations.

Tips for Proper Measuring and Fitting

Correct sizing and fitting are crucial when prescribing a wheelchair. Poor fit can lead to reduced comfort, difficulty using the chair, or risk of injury. A wheelchair prescription includes detailed measurements to support long-term use and safety.

Important points include:

• Seat width and depth. The seat should be wide enough for comfort but not so wide that posture is affected. Depth should allow support without placing pressure behind the knees.
• Backrest height. This should provide enough support while allowing free arm movement, depending on the user’s needs.
• Armrest and footrest positioning. Both should support natural posture, reduce fatigue, and help with transfers.
• Cushion selection. The right cushion can help prevent pressure injuries, promote posture, and improve comfort during longer use.
• Head and neck support. For users with reduced control or endurance, additional support may be necessary.
• Tilt and recline functions. These may be needed for pressure relief, posture management, or fatigue reduction.

Vista Healthcare ensures each fitting is guided by the individual’s needs and performed by trained clinicians. Our therapists also arrange trials to confirm comfort and functionality before any equipment is finalised.

Funding and Equipment Through NDIS

For eligible participants, the NDIS can fund wheelchairs and related equipment through the Assistive Technology category. Accessing this funding requires a clinical justification from a qualified therapist.

Vista Healthcare supports clients throughout this process by:

• Conducting the wheelchair OT assessment
• Preparing written reports with recommendations and reasoning
• Liaising with suppliers for quotes and equipment trials
• Submitting supporting documentation to NDIS or plan managers
• Providing follow-up once the equipment is delivered

We focus on making the process clear and manageable for participants and families. All assessments are based on function, safety, and long-term benefit, helping to ensure the right equipment is selected and approved.

Conclusion

Selecting a wheelchair is a significant decision that requires more than choosing a model. It must reflect the user’s physical needs, daily routine, environment, and long-term goals. A professional wheelchair prescription guided by an occupational therapist ensures the best fit for comfort, function, and safety.

Vista Healthcare provides mobile assessments and personalised support to help clients select the right wheelchair and access funding through the NDIS. Each decision is made with care, attention to detail, and respect for the person’s preferences and goals.

Find the Right Wheelchair Support with Vista Healthcare

If you are exploring options for wheelchair prescription, Vista Healthcare is here to support you. Our occupational therapists conduct thorough assessments and guide clients through equipment trials, fitting, and NDIS documentation. Contact us today to arrange a professional wheelchair OT assessment at your home or care facility.