Undoubtedly, understanding how to fold a wheelchair correctly makes transportation and storage much easier, especially if you are accompanying a family member or using it yourself daily. The correct folding is not complicated, but it requires clear steps depending on the type and parts of the wheelchair to ensure safe folding without any damage.
What You Need Before Folding the Wheelchair
Wheelchairs are among the most important pieces of rehabilitation equipment, so before folding any wheelchair, it is essential to prepare some basic items to ensure the process is safe and easy to carry out. These include:
Read the user manual included with the wheelchair to locate the locks and folding points, especially when folding it for the first time.
Check the brakes and ensure they are securely engaged to prevent the chair from moving during folding.
Ensure the wheelchair is placed on a stable, non-slip surface.
Don't forget to also remove any items placed on the seat or inside the side pockets.
How to Fold a Wheelchair (Step-by-Step Guide)
To learn how to fold a wheelchair, the most important mobility aids for many patients and seniors, you must follow this step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Lock the brakes
First, lock the brakes to ensure the wheelchair does not roll while being folded, as many wheelchairs are equipped with small levers in front of the rear wheels.
Step 2: Fold the footplates and armrests
Fold the footrests and armrests to the side by holding the footrests from the front and pushing the left footrest to the left and the right footrest to the right. Then do the same with the armrests.
Note: If your chair does not have armrests, skip this step.
Step 3: Unlock the brace
The third step in learning how to fold a wheelchair requires you to unbuckle the brace by pulling it upwards to open it and prepare the chair for folding.
You should also skip this step if your wheelchair does not have a brace.
Step 4: Folding the Seat
Now fold the seat by standing in front of the wheelchair, holding it firmly at the front and back, and then slowly lifting the seat towards the center to fold it.
As you fold, the wheels will move closer together. If the chair doesn't move, press it down further until it is fully folded.
Step 5: Keep your fingers safe
By getting here, you have successfully folded the wheelchair, but you must pay attention to keep your fingers away from the folding area and any moving parts to avoid pinching yourself.
How to Fold the Backrest of the Wheelchair
Folding the backrest of a wheelchair is a very important step and requires understanding its mechanism beforehand, especially since some models include a backrest that folds independently for easier transport and storage. Folding the backrest of the wheelchair, whether wheelchairs for seniors or children, is done as follows:
First, locate the buttons or locks behind the backrest.
Unlock or press the button to release the backrest, depending on the wheelchair model.
Then, gently push the backrest forward until it rests against the folded seat.
Ensure the folding mechanism is smooth and easy, and avoid using excessive force to protect the hinges from damage, especially if you are folding lightweight wheelchair types.
How to Remove Quick-Release Wheels Easily
You must also understand how to remove quick-release wheels properly to avoid damage. The steps for removing quick-release wheels include:
Raise the wheelchair slightly to relieve pressure on the wheel you want to remove.
Then, press the release button located in the center of the axle.
Next, gently pull the wheel straight out without twisting it.
Repeat the previous steps with the other quick-release wheels
After removing quick-release Wheels successfully, it is important to store them in a small bag or next to the folded chair to prevent scratches, damage, or loss.
Tips for Storing the Wheelchair After Folding
The most important tips and guidelines that must be taken into consideration when storing a wheelchair after folding, without exposing it to any damage, include the following:
Choose a dry, moisture-free storage location to protect the metal frame and hinges of your wheelchair from rust.
You can place the chair in an upright position to save space.
Keen to cover the chair with a light cover whenever possible to prevent dust buildup.
Avoid placing any weight on the wheels or the folded frame for extended periods.
If using the wheelchair daily or frequently, try to store it in a location that is easily accessible.
When You Need Maintenance or Replacement for the Wheelchair
Some signs that indicate a wheelchair needs maintenance or possibly replacement should be carefully observed to ensure user safety, such as:
Unusual noises from any part of the wheelchair during movement or folding.
Deviation from the normal path when pushing or difficulty controlling the wheelchair.
Notice any vibrations or instability in the wheels.
Appearance of cracks or warping in the aluminum frame or hinges.
Poor brake performance or the need to apply excessive pressure to the brakes for them to function properly.
If maintenance fails to address these issues, you will need to replace parts of the wheelchair with sound ones, or perhaps replace the entire chair, especially if it has severe vibrations that threaten the user's safety and cannot be repaired, or if it no longer provides the required comfort for the user, particularly in the case of long-term use of the wheelchair.
Why Choose MedLinks for Buying a Wheelchair?
Purchasing from MedLinks guarantees you will get trusted medical devices in the UAE. Whether you need an electric wheelchair to buy, any type of mobility aid, or any other medical care equipment, you will find multiple types, brands, and models, all of which are of superior quality, advanced professional design, and a very long lifespan.
In addition to reliable quality, fast delivery, and competitive prices, we also offer reliable 24/7 customer service and after-sales technical support to help you understand how to use the devices, how to fold a wheelchair, unfold it, etc., with a comprehensive one-year warranty on all devices and medical supplies.
FAQs
Does Folding the Wheelchair Affect Its Durability?
No, provided you learn how to fold a wheelchair correctly.
How Do Quick-Release Metal Components Affect the Wheelchair?
The quick-release metal components make transport and storage of wheelchairs easier and faster without affecting the stability of the chair, as long as they are installed correctly.
Can All Types of Wheelchairs Be Folded?
No, some types of wheelchairs are not foldable. For example, manual wheelchairs are often foldable, while some electric and heavy wheelchairs are not.
How Do I Unfold the Wheelchair After Folding It?
You can carefully unfold a wheelchair via these simple steps:
Hold the 2 sides of the wheelchair with your hands.
Pull the sections apart gently until the seat unfolds.
Press the seat down until it settles into its position.
Check the brakes before using.
Sources:
https://www.wikihow.com/Fold-a-Wheelchair
https://www.activemobility.com.au/blog/how-to-fold-a-wheelchair