Folding Economy Wheelchair

Economy wheelchair

Wheelchair Features:

Steel powder coated,

Fixed armrest
Fixed footrest
Plastic footplate
Solid tyre wheels

Seat width:46cm

An Economy wheelchair is a basic, durable, and budget-friendly manual wheelchair primarily designed for individuals needing occasional mobility assistance rather than full-time daily use. These chairs typically feature durable metal frames, common-sized wheels (often 24-inch rear wheels), and basic amenities like padded armrests and footrests. While functional for many, they lack the lightweight features or advanced customization of more expensive models, making them a good option for users with limited budgets or who only require a wheelchair for short outings.

Key Characteristics of Economy wheelchairs

Budget-Friendly:

Positioned as a more affordable alternative to high-end or specialized wheelchairs. 

Basic Functionality:

Offers standard, independent mobility for users with sufficient upper body strength. 

Durable Construction:

Often built with sturdy metal frames designed for basic, long-term use. 

Common Wheel Sizes:

Typically come with 24-inch rear wheels and 8-inch casters, suitable for general use. 

Occasional Use:

Ideal for people who can walk short distances but need a chair for longer outings or periods away from home. 

Features to Expect 

Fixed or Padded Armrests: Providing comfort and support.

Basic Footrests: A standard feature for user comfort.

Durable Upholstery: Often made with long-lasting nylon fabric.

Foldable Design: Allowing for easier storage and transport.

Using an economy wheelchair involves mastering fundamental steps for safe and efficient use, including proper unfolding, transferring in and out of the chair, self-propelling, and locking the brakes. Economy models are typically suitable for occasional use, such as for outings, rather than for full-time, daily mobility. 

Unfolding the wheelchair

Stand to the side. For safety, always fold or unfold the chair from the side, not the back.

Grasp the seat rails. Place your hands on either side of the seat fabric, directly over the metal seat rails that run from front to back.

Push down and apart. Push down firmly on the seat rails and pull them apart until the chair fully unfolds and the cross-braces are expanded. Some models may have a locking mechanism that clicks into place.

Confirm stability. Before sitting, make sure the seat is fully flattened and the chair is stable. 

Getting in and out safely

Engage the brakes. To prevent the chair from moving, push the brake levers forward or down until they are fully engaged.

Move footplates out of the way. Swing the footrests to the side or lift them up to prevent tripping during transfer.

Position yourself. Stand as close to the wheelchair seat as possible, with the back of your legs touching the front edge of the seat.

Use the armrests. Place your hands firmly on the armrests for support and slowly lower yourself down into the seat.

Secure your feet. Once seated, swing the footrests back into place and put your feet on them. 

Moving and steering the chair

Release the brakes. Pull the brake levers back to unlock the wheels when you are ready to move.

Propel forward. Place your hands on the metal hand rims attached to the outside of the large wheels. Push the rims forward to move forward.

Move backward. Pull the hand rims backward to reverse.

Turn. To turn, hold the hand rim on the side you wish to turn toward, and push the opposite hand rim forward.

Use the push handles. If a companion is assisting, they can use the handles at the back of the chair to push or guide you. 

Folding for storage

Lift the footplates. Swing the footrests up or remove them entirely.

Lift the seat. Using both hands, grasp the middle of the seat fabric and pull upwards.

Allow the chair to collapse. The chair will fold in on itself as you lift the seat. 

Important safety precautions

Always lock the brakes before transferring into or out of the wheelchair.

Avoid getting your fingers caught in the spokes by only using the metal hand rims for propulsion.

Be aware of your surroundings and avoid inclines or uneven terrain that may cause the chair to tip.