Signs you or a loved one may need a wheelchair

Over a million people in the UK are wheelchair users due to injury, disability, or a long-term condition that affects their mobility. If getting around and completing daily tasks is becoming increasingly challenging, you may ask yourself, ‘When is it time to get a wheelchair?’

Though choosing to use a wheelchair can feel like a big decision, in the long run, it’ll be beneficial in helping you regain your independence, comfort, and confidence. Read our guide to learn the signs that it may be time to consider using a wheelchair, ways to obtain one, and some guidance on choosing the right chair for your needs.

When to get a wheelchair

Mobility issues can develop gradually and stem from various factors like health conditions, injuries, or age-related changes. If you’re wondering when to get a wheelchair, here are some key signs that it might be time to consider getting one:

• Difficulty walking:
  Walking is a key part of our daily life, though it may become more challenging following an injury or a condition that decreases mobility. If everyday tasks that require standing or walking leave you exhausted, breathless, or in pain, a wheelchair could provide relief and support.
• Unsuitable walking aids:
  If your go-to mobility aids, such as walking sticks, crutches, or rollators, are no longer providing enough support, a wheelchair may offer a safer, more comfortable alternative for getting around.
• Balance and stability issues:
  A lack of stability or balance issues, which can be caused by vertigo or other conditions, are another sign that a wheelchair might be a good option. It can offer extra stability and reduce the risk of serious injuries.
• Reduced strength and endurance:
  Everyone’s body has different limitations. If you’re suffering from an injury or condition, walking long distances or even minor exertion can leave you feeling weak. Pushing your body past its limit could make you more prone to falls or further injury. A wheelchair can help you avoid overexertion, particularly if it is a powered wheelchair or has a power add-on.
• Chronic pain or fatigue:
  Many individuals suffer from chronic pain and fatigue due to conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia that can make walking or standing painful. Using a wheelchair may ease these symptoms, letting you preserve energy for other activities and manage pain more effectively.
• Neurological disorders:
  Some neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease, affect the nerves, brain, and spinal cord and can lead to muscle weakness, difficulty with coordination, and reduced mobility. A wheelchair can offer stable and secure support.
• Loss of independence:
  If you find yourself unable to complete your usual activities, like running errands or cooking, without assistance, a wheelchair can help you regain control of your life and boost your confidence. Accessories like wheelchair bags and wheelchair trays can make daily tasks easier.

How to get a wheelchair

There are many ways to get a wheelchair in England, each depending on your needs and circumstances:

• NHS referral
  You can request a referral for an assessment to your local NHS wheelchair service from your healthcare provider or self-refer. You’ll be assessed to determine which wheelchair is suitable for your needs and some may offer a voucher towards the cost of one.
• NHS wheelchair loan
  You may be able to borrow a wheelchair from the NHS in the short term, as you recover from an operation.
• British Red Cross rental
  The Red Cross offers wheelchairs for hire on a weekly basis, which is ideal if you need one temporarily.
• Shopmobility scheme
  Many shopping centres have a Shopmobility scheme where you can borrow a wheelchair while you run errands to make your shopping experience easier. 

For more long-term solutions, Complete Care Shop offers a wide selection of wheelchairs designed to suit various needs and requirements. Our range includes self-propelled wheelchairs, attendant-propelled wheelchairs, electric wheelchairs, specialist wheelchairs, and more. Browse our chairs to see which one best suits you. 

Financial support

Buying a wheelchair can be costly, but there are financial support options to help make it more affordable:

• Motability Scheme
  If eligible, you may be able to use disability benefits to lease or purchase a wheelchair through the Motability Scheme.
• Personal Wheelchair Budget
  Contact your local Integrated Care Board (ICB) to find out if you qualify for a Personal Wheelchair Budget, which can help cover the costs of a suitable wheelchair.
• Complete Care Shop finance options
  Complete Care Shop also offers monthly financing options through PayPal Credit, allowing you to spread the cost of your wheelchair over time.

Choosing the right wheelchair

Deciding on a wheelchair isn’t easy, as you need to consider your mobility needs, lifestyle and budget. You’ll have to ask yourself how often you’ll be using the wheelchair and where–indoors or outdoors or both–whether you need a foldable model for travelling, how comfortable the chair is as you’ll be sitting in it for extended periods, and many more questions. For further guidance, take a look at our guide to choosing the right wheelchair.

Once you’ve settled on a wheelchair, take a look at our wheelchair accessories and mobility ramps to adapt your living space and make life easier.

Find your ideal wheelchair at Complete Care Shop

At Complete Care Shop, we strive to enable your independence every day with products, services, and advice to help you live safely and confidently. Find your perfect wheelchair in our range to increase your mobility and quality of life.

Browse our help and advice blog for more guides on living with a wheelchair, and contact us for further information.