Top 15 Best Wheelchairs For Stroke Patients 2018-2019 ( Buyer’s Guide)
Best wheelchairs 2018-2019! Wheelchairs play a crucial role for patients with impaired mobility. It is one of the most popular mobility aids and widely-used pieces of medical instrument in the world.
From the manual and transport wheelchair to motorized wheelchair, all should not only go the distance but also provide a comfortable and smooth ride. Check out our list of the best wheelchair reviews and get back your independence.
These useful movable chair are designed with specialized wheels for safe and smooth movement in a seated position.
We recommend for the best wheelchair for most of the people is Foldawheel PW-999UL wheelchair.
1. Foldawheel PW-999UL Wheelchair
Wheelchair88 is the original producer and designer of this lightest power wheelchair since 2013. They have more than 10,000 happy customers worldwide.
This awesome movable chair is Ideal for those people with limited arm strength. This best motorized wheelchair is able to travel up to eight miles with just a single polymer lithium battery. You can double the distance with a additional battery.
This top medical chair is made from high-quality aluminum. You can fold it in just five seconds for storage or transport. This chair is just 45-pound wheelchair and it is considered as the world’s most compact and lightest power wheelchair. This movable chair company is giving 2 years global warranty which is great. It comes with 2 Polymer Lithium Batteries which can be operated for up to 16 miles.
We have tested this best transport wheelchair with 220 lbs user and found that 95% of the users are using the original battery for the past 4 years and that shows the quality of the wheelchair. You will get more powerful brushless motor.
This top class wheelchair is durable and energy saving. You will also get high-quality rubber tires which offer better traction making it simple to navigate slopes. The controller system of this chair is the smallest and provide better control among the other brushless motor controllers in the market.
To provide an easier and closer stand up position, the footrest can be collapsible inward. The double joint armrests are very strong to support heavier weight. It equips with hydraulic anti-tilt support. The backrest cover and seat cushion are made of an air-breeze material which is very comfortable and detachable for washing. It also comes with a tough & thick padded Travel Bag and a worldwide usable charger.
Pros:
- Detachable joystick controller
- Hydraulic anti-tilt support
- Comes with a travel bag
Cons:
- Higher price point
2. Karman 19.8 lbs Ergonomic Ultra Lightweight Wheelchair
This top manual wheelchair is a good all-around mobility device. It weighs only 19.8 lbs.
This chair is made from aircraft-grade T6 aluminum. In order to keep your feet from sliding off the footplates, it comes with a removable footrest with heel loops. This best manual wheelchair is ergonomically designed for extra comfort.
You will also get S-shaped seating frame, with the anti-bacterial upholstery. Fixed Axle or Quick Release Axle and 16″x17″ or 18″x17 Seat is available with this chair. You will also get 20″ Flat Free Polyurethane Rear Wheels and Patent S-Shape Seating Frame.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- Made from high-quality aluminum
- Ergonomically designed seat
Cons:
- May not be suitable for larger users
3. Drive Medical Blue Streak Wheelchair
The design of this Cutting-edge wheelchair makes independent mobility enjoyable. You can easily regain your independence with this foldable Drive Medical Blue Streak Wheelchair. Both the swing-away footrests and the desk-length armrests are removable for storage.
The rubber tires of this chair feature a push-to-lock functionality for safety when transitioning in and out. The 18” padded nylon seat is very comfortable and easy to clean. It also has a carry pocket at the back. The premium swing-away leg rests and the detachable desk arms provide customizable support.
The seat height is 19.5 inches. Overall Dimensions are 42″(L) x 24″(W) x 36″(H); Closed Width: 12.5″. The Weight Capacity of this top wheelchair is 250 lbs. The seat dimensions are 16″(D) x 18″(W) x 19.5″(H). The armrest height is 8″.
Pros:
- Supports up to 250 pounds
- Tires feature a locking function
- Steel frame is chip and crack-resistant
Cons:
- Not as durable as some other wheelchairs
4. Drive Medical Lightweight Steel Transport Wheelchair
It is one of the best selling wheelchairs for stroke patients. Even in narrow spaces this best transport medical chair is easy to maneuver.
For the maximum stability, this Drive Medical wheelchair is made of durable steel and the durable steel frame offers reliable stability whether you use it independently or with assistance. The swing-away footrests and the padded armrests make the chair very comfortable to use.
For easy transport and storage the backrest can be folded flat. It features superior maneuverability in narrow indoor layouts. The Nylon seat upholstery is easy to clean. You will get 8 inch composite wheels that are lightweight and maintenance free.
Pros:
- Easy to maneuver
- Portable and easy to store
- Nylon seat is easy to clean
Cons:
- Not designed for independent use
5. Medline Lightweight Transport Adult Folding Wheelchair
For the better performance on uneven outdoor surfaces, this lightweight transport wheelchair has large 12 inch rear wheels and loop-style handbrakes which are suitable for bumpy terrains. During the transfer, these are good for locking the rear wheels.
Medline Transport wheelchair is made of with powder-coated durable aluminum ultralight frame. This best movable chair also features a detachable footrest and a foldable back for easy storage and transportation.
For safety, the rear wheels can be locked with loop-lock manual handbrakes. It has a weight capacity of 300 lbs. For easy transport, travel or storage, the portable back is collapsible (can be fold down).
The push bar has standard foam grip and anti-tippers. You will also get Full length permanent armrest, 8 inches rear wheels, comfortable nylon upholstery, Seat belt for safety and Detachable footrests.
The Seat dimensions are 18 inches x 16 inches. The Overall product dimensions are 24.5 inches (W) x 22 inches (D) x 37 inches (H). And this best wheelchair 2018 weighs only 22 lbs.
Pros:
- Designed for bumpy terrains
- Features a seat belt
- Rear wheels can be locked in place
Cons:
- Some users have complained of flimsy wheels
6. Invacare Veranda Manual Wheelchair
This best manual wheelchair is good if you need it occasionally or for very short time. But if you want to use it daily or for long time then spend extra money for better wheelchair.
This cheap manual wheelchair is simple to fold up and bring along. It weighs about 37 pounds w/o its legs which detach easily and I don’t use anyway. The cushioned arms also detach if you want.
The canvas material of this chair breathes better than leather wheeled chair seats and it is pretty comfortable to sit in. The seat is 18″ wide (wide enough for my 180 lbs.) and the chair fits through the narrowest of my doorways.
This Invacare veranda manual wheelchair has little feet off the back, so that anyone pushing you can step on the feet to get the chair over a step. You will also love the pocket on the back of the seat. Lets checkout some cons of this chair. Sometimes the wheel may slips if you’re on an awkward surface.
The foot rests may stick out a bit. The seat on it could use a cushion and It could be a little more comfortable. But for the price this wheelchair is great will do your job.
Pros:
- Foldable for easy storage and transport
- Comfortable padded arms
- Stylish design
Cons:
- Heavier than some other wheelchairs
7. Drive Medical Cruiser III Light Weight Wheelchair
This ultra-comfortable Cruiser III Wheelchair by Drive Medical features swing-away footrests and padded flip armrests.
The depth of the seat can be adjusted from sixteen to eighteen inches. This light weight wheelchair is made of carbon steel. This Cruiser III wheelchair comes with composite and mag-style wheels along with safety wheel-locks in order to protect you when moving in and out of this wheeled chair.
It usually rolls smoothly on most of the terrains. It is also foldable for easy transport and storage. It has got a carbon steel frame which removes seat guides and allows for custom back inserts and accessories. This top wheelchair has a silver vein finish which is very attractive and easy to maintain. This chair will give you long lasting performance and reliability.
The 8-inch front wheels provide a smooth ride over the most surfaces. The dual axle removable flip back arms make transferring very easy. This Drive Medical Cruiser III Lightweight wheelchair comes with detachable flip back arms, black nylon upholstery, swing away or elevating footrests, push to lock wheel locks and composite Mag-style wheels.
Pros:
- Easy-to-clean nylon upholstery
- Push-to-lock wheel locks
- Extendable seat
Cons:
- Some quality control issues
8. Invacare LightWeight Tracer EX2 Wheelchair 20″
Invacare Tracer EX2 is a carbon-steel wheelchair and it is designed with an appealing silver vein finish.
This best wheelchair has dual axle positions that mean it can be easily adjusted to seat height for maximum comfort. This chair comes with removable armrests. For easy storage and transport, it can be folded down to the width of thirteen inches.
This chair is lightweight at 36 lbs w/o Footrest. The weight limit is 250 lbs The Dual axle positions feature allows variation of seat-to-floor heights.
The Seat Width is 20″ and seat depth is 16″. The wheelchair and Footrest usually come in 2 separate shipments. This wheelchair is shown with brake Extention Handle and optional Seat Cushion.
Pros:
- Features an oxygen tank holder
- Adjustable seat height
- Made from carbon-steel
Cons:
- Not as comfortable as some other wheelchairs
9. Heavy Duty 22″ Transport Wheelchair By NOVA Medical Products
It is an extra-wide transport wheelchair and comes with flip desk-length arms and swing-away footrests for easy transitions.
This extra wide wheelchair is foldable for easy transport and storage. For safety and protection, it features locking hand brake system.
For smooth ride on most bumpy surfaces, it has twelve-inch back wheels. It Comes with Feather Touch locking special hand brakes which are ideal for inclines and bumpy terrain. It is the most versatile, heavy duty, extra wide and lightweight transport wheelchair with flip up desk arms.
You will get locking hand brakes and 12” rear wheels. It can be folded compactly and easily for travel. It is really easy to get in and out of the vehicle. The Flip up desk arms makes it easy to transfer.
You can also use it at a table or desk. The seat width of this heavy duty wheelchair is between arms 22.5 inch, the back height from seat 17.5 inch and arm height from seat 10 inch. The maximum weight capacity is 400 lbs.
Pros:
- Supports up to 400 lbs
- Smooth ride on bumpy terrains
- Adjustable seat belt
Cons:
- Brakes are not as responsive as one would wish
10. Medline Strong and Sturdy Wheelchair with Desk-Length Arms and Swing-Away Leg Rests
Medline strong and sturdy wheelchair is best for the durable and comfortable ride.
This strong chair with large wheels features dry natural rubber, long-lasting attractive hammertone finish, and durable nylon upholstery. The swing-away leg rests of this chair make transfers easy. The desk-length arms are great for dining. It has got premium welds to stand up to rigorous use.
It is made of scratch-resistant steel. The adjustable seat height allows the user to propel the wheelchair with their feet. The mag wheels with smooth-rolling flat-free tires is designed for a smooth and safe ride.
The foot-powered movement feature helps to increase mobility with 2” seat-height adjustments. Its weight capacity is 300-lb and the product weight is 38-lb.
Pros:
- Scratch-resistant
- Adjustable seat height
- Flat-free tires
Cons:
- Users have reported problems with the wheels
11. Karman 24 pounds LT-980 Ultra Lightweight Wheelchair
By offering the LT-980 series, Karman Healthcare continues to pioneer and innovate the lightweight wheelchair category.
The weight of this ultra-light wheelchair is just 24 pounds and it comes without the footrest. Those who are looking to save weight but maintain a good budget in mind can buy this amazing wheelchair. This best wheelchair is the lightest and yet made from strongest aluminum. This LT-980 is equipped with great features which is suitable for any daily wheelchair user.
For easy lift and store, this chair uses a foldable and compact frame. For comfortable riding, it uses padded nylon upholstery that is easy to maintain and clean. For ease of use when sitting at a desk it includes the padded desk length arm pads. The built-in pouch is located on back upholstery.
This top wheelchair includes a seatbelt for additional safety. You will also get easy to use removable and height adjustable footrest. This chair with large wheels uses polyurethane 22 inch rear wheels. For the 22-inch rear wheels and six-inch front casters, you can utilize this chair on just about any surface
Pros:
- Built-in pouch
- Weights 24 pounds
- Height-adjustable footrests
Cons:
- May not be suitable for tall users
12. Invacare V20RLR Veranda Wheelchair
The Invacare Veranda Wheelchair features comfort and mobility in an economical package.
For maximum comfort, this wheelchair for stroke patinens includes padded upholstery and removable desk-length armrests. The Invacare V20RLR Veranda Wheelchair comes with a elegant and stylish silver vein finish. It has the removable desk-length arms and padded elevating legrests option.
On the back of the backrest there is a convenient carry pocket. You will also get Removable desk-length and fixed height padded arms. The actual seat width of this chair is 18″ and the width between the armrests is 16″. The swing-away footrests of this Veranda Wheelchair enable easy transfers in and out of the wheelchair.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Stylish silver vein finish
- Padded leg and arm rests
Cons:
- Not as easy to fold and unfold as some other wheelchairs
13. Invacare Tracer SX5 Wheelchair
This Invacare Tracer SX5 Wheelchair serves as a solid and affordable option that will make appeal to any customer.
Specifically, customers explained that this best wheelchair for stroke patients is simply an all-around effective chair that actually embodies the concept of being “a jack of all trades, but a master of none”. This best wheelchair in 2018 has a variety of options especially in sizes, armrests, and footrests. The wheelchair is lightweight, weighing just 36 pounds.
It is designed with14-gauge cross braces which add great strength and durability. It features dual axle positions that allow variation of seat-to-floor height.
This chair is durable and need low-maintenance. You will get triple chrome-plated and carbon steel frame. The urethane rear tires that are mounted on “no flex” wheels offer higher performance.
Pros
- Lightweight, just 36 pounds
- It features dual axle positions
- Uses urethane rear tires
- triple chrome-plated and carbon steel frame
Cons
- Has a warning about using on wet surfaces, oil and ice.
- Large wheels are flat and slippery looking.
14. Breezy EC 2000HD Heavy-Duty Wheelchair
This wheelchair offers three seat widths 16 inch, 18 inch, and 20 inch and 300 lb. weight capacity. The Double-embossed vinyl upholstery of this chair is durable, simple to clean and flame retardant. The Breezy EC 2000HD wheelchair provides choice to the customers between padded full arms or padded desk arms.
The wheelchair offers detachable options in all armrests which is a noteworthy advantage which allows patients to fully seat themselves at a table without armrests coming in the way. It also comes with standard swing away leg-rests and desk length removable padded armrests.
These leg rests are offered in pairings that allows customer to customize their chair to their exact needs. To enhance strength and durability this top class wheelchair composite mag wheels that are molded with contours.
The additional features that are available with this chair are a rear anti-tipping mechanism, a telescoping IV pole, an oxygen tank holder, two inch seat extensions, articulating leg rests, wheel lock extension handles, and a Velcro-style seat belt
Pros
- Allows patients to fully seat themselves
- Durable, simple to clean
- Rear anti-tipping mechanism
T - wo inch seat extensions, articulating leg rests
Cons
- It is quite big wheel chair and is not good for small children
15. Hi-Fortune Medical Manual Wheelchair
Stroke patients and those who are suffering from quadriplegics can start the beautiful day with this Hi-Fortune Lightweight Medical Manual Wheelchair. This awesome wheelchair is user-friendly & ergonomic manual wheelchair.
This chair is just about 21 pounds, utilizing the lightest, yet strongest magnesium. This best manual wheelchair 2018 is equipped with great features that are suitable for almost every daily wheelchair user. The seat width is 17.5 and the weight Capacity is 220lbs. This wheelchair offers compact and foldable frame to allow any family member lift and store the item easily.
This best Medical Manual Wheelchair is great for all kinds of travel. It can be easily checked on the airplane. For the padded armrests and the swing-away leg rest, the customer will feel more relaxed, comfortable and secure. This wheelchair has got larger rear wheels to provide better performance on uneven outdoor surfaces.
The convenient top handbrakes make it easier to control the speed. You don’t need any assembly just attach the footrest and back safety rollers and you are ready to go. Before ordering, you should check your door width to ensure that the wheelchair will fit your home doors nicely. The warranty for this manual wheel chair includes a 1 year frame and components warranty against defects
Pros
- Super strong and ultra-light magnesium alloy frame
- Good for all kinds of travel
- Larger rear wheels
- Convenient top handbrakes to control the speed
- Very comfortable padded arm rests and the swing-away leg rests
Cons
- All is good except the price
The Best Wheel Chair Buying Guide
Things to Consider
In order to customize your ride according to your needs wheelchairs comes in different sizes, shapes, colors, and features. You should purchase a wheelchair that is comfortable to sit in, lightweight enough to transport and fit your body size as needed. Again you should consider the following things before purchasing the best wheelchair in 2018.
1. How often will the wheelchair be used?
If you use the chair frequently the comfort of the seat is most important. For everyday use, you should buy a wheelchair with durable materials that are easier to clean.
You should also consider a good braking system and quality wheels. When used regularly a footrest can add more comfort to the ride. Little things like the pocket and other items will also help you.
2. Weight capacity
Every wheelchair has different weight capacity. For the children, you will need a smaller wheelchair that has smaller frames and seat. Adults need a big wheelchair with high weight capacity but light enough to carry for transport.
3. Will the chair be self-operated or pushed?
When the chair is self-operated they must have large back wheels for maneuvering. But when the wheelchair is meant to be pushed always then you should choose a lighter chair with smaller wheels.
4. Where are you going to use the wheelchair?
If you intend to use the chair in a different location or places, the chair should be compact and lightweight enough to easily get in and get out of the car. The place of using the chair will vary the quality of wheels, tires and the frame.
5. How compact the wheelchairs need to be?
When it comes to wheelchairs the dimensions are very important. The size of the chair determines how easily it can be moved or get fit. If the chair is large then it will require more adjustment like wider doors. Before buying you must consider the size and ensure that it fits comfortably.
The sit should be large enough to fit the rider. You should measure your hallways, door frames, vehicle clearance and other locations where the chair will be used to help you get the best chair that will comfortably and safely navigate you wherever you want.
Features to Consider
There are many features that you must consider before purchasing the best wheelchair in 2018.
1. Hand breaks of the Wheelchair
Hand Breaks not only helps to stop the wheelchair wheels from rolling but also helps in parking your wheelchair so that it does not roll or slip away. So the hand breaks of the chair should be easily accessible levers that apply enough force to stop the wheelchair.
2. Padded Arm Rests
In order to provide support to rest your arms, almost every best wheelchair brand has armrests located on both sides. When the rider sits for long periods the level of padding can make a huge difference on the comfort of the rider. Extra padding also can feel comfy for those who spend a long time in the chair.
3. Wheelchair Foot Rests
Footrests are the small plastic pallets that rest in front of the wheelchair where you rest your feet. For a stroke patient or quadriplegics patients, you should get that footrest which can be flipped easily to the side to get out of your way when you get in and out of the chair.
4. The Weight of the Wheel Chair
If your chair is heavy it will be difficult for you carry the wheelchair. Most wheels must be moved from place to place. So, if the chair is light enough it will be a lot easier for you to put the chair back of a car or in a truck.
5. Nylon upholstery
Nylon upholstery is a comfortable material that is simple to clean and very durable. This material is very lightweight which reduces the overall chair weight.
6. Wheelchair’s Frame Material.
Aluminum frames are lighter than steel frames. The best wheelchair should use the powered coating to change the color and it also prevents rust from enabling the material to last for a long period of time.
7. Movable Arms
When sitting for a long period of time, movable arms will help you to have more room. Movable arms also allow you to put a tray over the chair so that you can move up to a table or desk with ease.
8. Wheelchair Accessories
To make your ride more comfortable and safe you will need some wheelchair accessories like gel cushions, carry bags, water bottle holders, lights, transfer benches and others. Here are some basic wheelchair accessories for you and these accessories will add a bit of pizzazz to your wheelchair.
• Bags
For carrying personal belongings you will need a good wheelchair bag.
Most wheelchair bags feature many pockets for small items like your keys and wallet and larger items like a laptop. Before buying the best wheelchair bag you must ensure that it full fill all your needs.
• Water Bottle Holders
To stay hydrated both at home and while on the move you will need a Wheelchair water bottle holder. They are a convenient way of ensuring that you healthy and hydrated while you are riding a wheelchair.
• Gel Cushions
If you spend a lot of time in your wheelchair and want to make your experience more comfortable, a quality gel cushion will go a long way. The best wheelchair cushion redistributes weight to improve posture and prevent pressure sores when you are riding a wheelchair.
• Wheelchair Lights
If you ride on your wheelchair after dark, investing in best wheelchair light might be the ticket. Wheelchair lights will definitely increase your visibility, at the same time, it will leave you free to enjoy safely.
Tips to Keep you Mobile
Investing in the best transport wheelchair is a game changer for those who are suffering from limited mobility or a lower-body injury. These important wheelchair accessories out there will definitely improve the lifestyle of those who have mobility issues.
Have a quick look…
1. Transfer Benches
It allows easy transitions in and out of the shower and tub. Transfer benches also reduce the risk of tripping and slipping for a patient suffering from quadriplegics. These benches work by letting the user slowly slide from one side of the bench into the shower or the tub.
2. Raised Toilet Seats
People with mobility issues can easily go to the bathroom without assistance from this Raised toilet seats. These toilet seats for a wheelchair is comfortable and reduce pressure on the knees for a stroke patient when squatting down on the seat.
3. Grabbers
It is quite impossible for a wheelchair user to do everyday tasks. To solve this problem the best wheelchair grabber might be a great tool to make seemingly inaccessible objects a lot easier to reach.
Conclusion
Wheelchairs can transport a person easily from place to place. It gives a person more freedom and mobility. The Best wheelchair brand can improve the quality of life for a person who is not able to transport themselves. Wheelchairs should be portable and lightweight. You should get one and enjoy life more fully.
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