Hi everyone. its so good to be back, and I can’t wait to share the rest of this series with you. Why not check out these videos next? As always please leave your expires, and tips bellow for others doing research. 😍 How to choose a wheelchair in 2022 (part 1) ua-cam.com/video/ohORKZKkY_4/v-deo.html Costly mistakes people make when choosing a wheelchair: ua-cam.com/video/3VLGaeLYa3Q/v-deo.html My Wheelchair is causing me problems ua-cam.com/video/uHv5oRLSo0o/v-deo.html How to fund a wheelchair ua-cam.com/video/TFnK989-gig/v-deo.html How to buy a stairlift ua-cam.com/video/wx7X68Xo7gs/v-deo.html
I am trying to get a tray for my powerchair but they will not give me one as I do not lean on it because I am strapped in to hold me up, and it is an uphill battle to get one to use as I am visually impaired and would have a good use for it so I can put stuff in front of me when I need to look at stuff that may be too heavy for me, plus being strapped in I can only move so close to things.
I don't need to watch this as I know all this stuff already... let me just say, if you use Metric, the likelihood of your foot plate or whatever hitting the pavement is less, and I live in the US... I am just picky and look how most things are not made here and built where they use Metric anyhow. I use a complex rehab powerchair your fitting is not even half of what I go through lady. I should add that I have tilt and recline and that seat adjustment you wanted, I naturally adjust to that tilting back a little. Try with the shoes on too as your legs will be adjusted to a higher position with them on then off... shoes that are normal to what you usually wear daily, for an example of both with and without shoes. I had to go to the hospital to get measured for my new chair... that would be really nice to have all that come to me... Covid or no @#%& Covid going on! SOAFB, the fight to have them come to me, with N95 masks on! I am getting a tray for my chair and it was not easy to get them to come for that, every single F'ing thing has to be a damn fight with idiots, to the point I am not doing as many medical check ups as the doctor now thinks that it would be dangerous for me to come in... which is better then coming in. On top of that I had people coming in my home who I rather not have here and they needed to be told to wear a mask or to get the F away from my apartment! Oh by the way it is senior and handicapped housing here so it really looked bad when the people working here needed to F'ing be told to wear a mask. Even the people who work here delivering dinners they have no idea why someone might be staying home and getting food delivered from the dinning hall, as someone could have Covid and now they are just getting it and passing it which vaccine or not you can still get, and yes I have got that sh!t done already.
@@wheelieblind How frustrating. Often People with disabilities are treated like they can't understand themselves. You know what you need more than anyone else. I hope you were able to get one.
I think my top tip for people (especially ambulatory users) who have never had one (or a custom) before is to actually go to the showroom to get measured! It let me see all of the possible options and try out different chairs to figure out my Centre of gravity etc. I’d only ever tried my friend’s wheelchair (who didn’t need it anymore) so I didn’t have any real idea of what features were possible etc.
I needed a powerchair with suspension because of my pain. Having heard about custom powerchairs, I trawled through mobility companies, on the phone, for hours before finally finding a company who could reduce the size of the powerchair for my flat. They came round, I discussed my needs, they took measurements. I am so grateful and thankful for my powerchair.
I had a similar fitting/measurement done by RGK (who like Cyclone also have wheelchair users as their sales reps). We ended up meeting in a shopping centre since my flat isn’t fully accessible! I have hEDS (and neuropathy) and can walk a little, so some of my considerations were a little different, but mostly very similar. My own tips: - When researching chairs, remember if a price is listed it will be the “base” price. Options can add up fast! Make sure you know what options are vital to you (e.g. scissor brakes, adjustable push handles, side guards/fenders etc.) Sometimes if you Google the chair, you can get price lists that give you an indication of the final cost. - Remember that folding chairs are almost guaranteed to be heavier than rigid chairs - and they’re not necessarily smaller to transport. - When getting a rigid chair, a folding backrest is pretty essential to fit it in a car etc. Some chairs (like my RGK Tiga FX) also fold the front of the frame to make them even easier to transport once you’ve removed the wheels. - Remember the cushion! They’re often pretty expensive and also need to be taken into account when taking measurements. Even if you have no pressure issues, a cushion will cost at least £50+ - Backrest height… higher doesn’t equal better if you have back pain. Higher backrests actually push me into a poor posture, so I’m in way less pain with a lower backrest! Also look into rigid backrests - although these are pricey. - Pushrims - if you have any hand/wrist pain, poor hand function or difficulty gripping, then consider shaped pushrims (e.g. Gekko, Surge, Ellipse) - for me they make the difference between being able to self propel down several streets and not being able to get halfway up my road! - Seat depth is important if you want to sit with your legs tucked in. My NHS chair didn’t take into account that my cushion sticks out further than the seat… meaning it digs into the back of my knees uncomfortably. - Push handles. If you have a fluctuating condition, these can be super important. Because I’m short, the fold down push handles on my NHS chair are too low for someone to push me any distance. My new chair has height adjustable push handles - which I can remove when I don’t want them! - Castor wheels shouldn’t be overlooked. If you’re a newer wheelie, I wouldn’t go any smaller than 4-5” (6” max). The chunkier/wider castors give a smoother ride. Good when you are in pain from any jolts! - Consider where you’ll use your chair. If you want to use it outside a lot (even on relatively smooth pavements), look into a FreeWheel or FrontWheel attachment. If you struggle to self propel and might need a power assist device, do not choose a carbon fibre chair. - It’s important for active chairs to be snug fitting… but bear in mind what clothing you normally wear. If you live somewhere cold/wet, don’t get measured in a t-shirt and shorts and forget to leave any room for a jumper/coat etc! - Colours… many wheelchair users pick metal/silver, black or white frames. But if you’re someone like me who ADORES a certain colour, don’t be afraid to pick what you love! Chairs don’t have to be boring and practical. Mine is purple with rainbow wheels! 😁
I have an RGK Fx and got told I couldn’t have height adjustable handles! Then again I did want it to still fit in an overhead locker on a plane… the push handles are the one thing I wish I could change!
@@charlottehesketh9703 Mine are technically “stroller” handles (like they put on the kids chairs) - and they did have to add a back bar/extra tubing for them. So my FX probably wouldn’t fit in most plane overhead lockers. Thankfully I normally travel by car, bus or train! I told them I just wanted it small enough to fit in a train’s luggage area (I sit in a regular seat). I guess there must be some reason the regular adjustable handles don’t work with the chair… or they just won’t put them on for people who want to fly?
@@purpleautisticgirl that makes sense thank you! Yeah I think I recall and said they could add them but it would add bulk which prevents it fitting. You might still have some luck in the staff cabinets on a plane! Mine fitted in there twice so it’s worth asking!
When I got my second chair, I increased my dump from 2" to 3" because it made it easier for me to carry things in my lap! My knees are now a tad bit higher than my lap, so grocery bags and such don't fall over or slide off as much anymore. I am currently in OT school and have an interest in seating and mobility :)
I read once that a wheelchair (Paraplegia) user of 50 years made mistakes in choosing this and that with every single chair he bought. So your detailed look at this is just what is needed imho. Peter
REMEMBER: These people are salespeople *first* and *foremost* - they might be Disabled, but they are selling you company products. That's why it's a good idea to have someone with you, even if you think you can handle yourself.
My first ultra--light wheelchair was done during the high end of the pandemic, it was done over the phone via video, I do have a power chair but I actually like going manual, I don't have to worry about how much battery life is left, my chair is fully adjustable, a bit pricey, I can see why the insurance tried to stick me with a hospital type, my ultralight is way more user friendly
I love that you empahsize research when it comes to wheelchairs, but I believe it’s important for any medical device that essential becomes part of you. YOU are the one that has to live with it, and it has to be what you want. I don’t require a mobility aid, but I do wear an insulin pump. There are good pumps on the market, each with their pros and cons. I’m attached to this thing 24/7, so it had to be the one that was best for ME. The only way to know that is to gather as much information as you can from manufacturers, healthcare professionals, and actual patients. I love your channel, btw. Having a chronic illness myself has made me curious about challenges others face with situations quite different to my own. You’ve opened my eyes to things I’ve never considered!!
I wish I had been warned more about getting the correct width! I got my chair second-hand (with the agreement of my OT) so I did not get to try it before I bought it. The seat is too wide for me, only by about an inch/inch and a half on each side, but it's so much more work to self propel than in a snug chair. My arms are out slightly too far to be comfortable when reaching the wheels, and the backrest hits my arms - much like the Jaguar featured in this video. Please please make sure you're comfy with the width of any new chair! It's one of the most important measurements in my opinion.
Great tips, especially when choosing your wheelchair for the first time. He certainly covered a lot of things which I never thought of asking. Especially when it came to what type of seat you wanted. That is something I never thought of
This is really helpful thank you!🤗🙏 I am quite new to wheelchairs due to significant mobility issues. I have so far wasted money on two chairs that are not suitable simply because I trusted what they were telling me in the store. I am looking to get an active wheelchair now and your video has been a big help thank you.☺️☺️☺️
I think this is the third time I've watched this video. From hoping I would someday get a wheelchair, to buying a second hand one, to now actually having a wheelchair fitting within the next month. Thank you for all the information Gem. I'm sure I'll be back at this video someday.
im so excited about this vid! im realizing after using a hospital chair for over a year that im going to need a lightweight rigid frame. ideally i'll be able to get a custom, but if i cannot afford it or my doctor refuses to refer me to a seating specialist, i wanna be able to at least get a second-hand rigid frame thats as close as i can get to a diy measurements
Your videos are worrying fresh and expressing to people on a wheelchair tune and I have lotto MS and your videos spared me to get out my wheelchair and don't let anybody steer me down. Thank you, and I'm from Idaho. Bye. John will cox 😊😊
As someone who is" Only" an ambulant wheelchair user I tend to buy all mine second hand, my last one was a bargain, I thought the extra 2" seat depth wouldn't be an issue.... Big mistake so uncomfortable, I may compromise on width but never 15" Depth as is my current one... Shame it weights 8kg without wheels. 🤣🙄
In the US I think you have hands on concepts and they are apparently really good wheels2walking went there and did a video about them so you might wanna check that out if you need it
@@mathew-marcus7862 thanks for info. I am a Vietnam War veteran 1966-67 and have paralyzed legs for many years. The Veterans Administration will give me a wheelchair that is too heavy and hard to manage. But I get no special treatment and they see me years apart.
@@johnbethea4505 wow I find it absolutely discussing how they can treat you like that my brother is currently in the Royal air force and I could never imagine them doing that over here I'm so sorry they are treating you so badly and thank you for your service I may not be American but I still know how much you have done for your country
@@mathew-marcus7862 thank you. Love and talk to your brother regularly for one day he may not come home with the troubles that we having in the world today. He should be your Hero...
I know this is an older video and I am from the US, but it's been helpful to learn what to expect. I hope to be fitted for a chair soon, now that I can afford one! Thank you Gem, you are the bomb!
I know it's been two years since this. But I've come back as I have a fitting on Thursday and needing some info beforehand. - I made a list of what I want to keep, try and change from my current NHS wheelchair. - it just doesn't suit my needs any more, and they won't change it because it's "not a significant change".
“Know your level of injury” straight away as a very sick EDS sufferer who can’t walk due to Joint Issues , this type of sentence gives me the feeling that I wouldn’t be taken seriously by this company.
My "level of injury" is a progressive and degenerative disorder that includes spastic paraplegia and even periodic paralysis. Plus POTS and EDS. Some days my arms are okay, some days my left arm is a useless noodly limp thing that exists only as a painful *thing* on my torso. Like, how do I explain that my "level of injury" can shift and change multiple times a day? Sometimes I will suddenly feel awful or very suddenly feel better (rare but nice when that happens tbh), out of 20 steps I could syncope or sublux with every step but can't predict it... like what do people like us do when "level of injury" is not quantifiable? Not able to be known until the moment exists?
@@QueerCripple in the context, the seller meant level of injury as in lower back or middle back injury, assuming all wheelchair users have spinal cord injuries. When in fact only a tiny 2% of wheelchair user world wide have some sort of paralysis. Not having permanent injury does not disqualify someone from being a wheelchair user if they cannot move around… Which explains my comment. 🙃
@@Junes.dreams.uk_ yeah right there with you, I am very new to wheelchair use and still unlearning toxic things (I used to believe you needed to have non-working legs or be elderly, turns out you can just go on Amazon and buy a wheelchair if you want, like wow... and my doctors had me start using one because of syncope, I can generally walk for extended periods of time but standing still like in a grocery line will have me pass out!) but it seems that most wheelchair related help specifically assumes you have a spinal injury and 0% ability to move yourself. I recently did an intake interview for in-home help and they had a question... "Are you a wheelchair user, OR can you walk?" Um. Both. But both was not an option. So even though I technically can walk, they have me categorized as not having a walking ability. Come on, really now. It's 2022! We can learn this stuff!
@@Junes.dreams.uk_ ty for explaining what the "level" in level of injury means though! That's mot how my brain interpreted it. My brain interpreted "level of injury" as in "level of severity of disability" or "level of care needs".
So many people made mistakes in choosing their mobility scooter's that Motability issued a "does and dont's" type advisory leaflet to help people avoid some mistakes.
For myself I watched your previous videos before going for my first wheelchair, and I found it really helpful just to have some level of expectation. I had my ot do mine, and due to my condition and line of work. We ended up going for an all-terrain electric wheelchair. If it’s your first wheelchair, consider how the public will react. So I’m part time I can get in and out to get high up things however in areas where people don’t know me. The public rushes forward to assist, it’s very kind of them however I could very easily get injured from this. When selecting a wheelchair I didn’t go with the tilt to stand aspect. And I wish I did just based on how the public reacted.
Hi I'm loving this new series ❤❤ just wondering who did all of the illustrations such as this one here 4:48 I love their style. Can't wait to see your final chair 😊
Thank you so much. Ive been working hard on this for about a year. Its been two years in the making. Thank you for saying about the illustrations, as I made them myself (with templates from canva) but they took hours and spoons!!! xxx
Omg thank you for this video! Ive been trying to get a wheelchair for 2 years now and Insurance won't let me just PICK ONE, even though my current one is from the dumpster, because they want me to get "fitted" for one. I truly don't understand what they mean, like I said my current chair was literally by a dumpster with a "free" sign taped to it, I have no clue about PROPER wheelchairs for my body... but I know that the backs of my arms and shoulders are in agony from the stupid handles. Backs of my arms just bruised to bits... But anyway I haven't scheduled for a fitting yet because nobody will give me a detailed explanation of what that means, and so I'm still using the same wheelchair, from the dumpster, one broken brake, never been adjusted. Maybe after watching your video I will actually be able to schedule for a fitting!
One measurement the I would like to know more about is wheel size (24, 25 or 26 inch) and how it will affect other measurements. Also will arm length be determined by this or not?
Hello😀, I’m curious on your width size when you said, “snug fit”. Are your hip guards touching your skin? Have you ever had any pressure sores or redness on the side of your hips due to your hip guards being too close? I recently got my new chair and I could have went with a snug fit of a 15 inch width but I was told that a 16 inch would be better for me. I was told that if I was too snug/tight in my seat that my skin would be rubbing on the side guards that could lead to possible pressure sores. So I went with a 16 inch. I have a good 1/2 inch , 3/4 inch, of empty space on each side guard. (My weight can fluctuate but I’m not overweight at all). I’m okay with my choice because I feel like my back fits me great where as if I went with a smaller back rest it might have been to tight. Just want to know your thoughts for my next wheelchair. Thank you.
Great video Gem, I’m looking to get a custom chair at some point this year as currently have a WCS active chair but so much I dislike about it, although was a good first chair… I will definitely consider Cyclone as having a Batec also the welded bracket would be awesome, can’t wait to see part three - stay safe my friend x
Gem the wheelchair looks great, I have a Quickie Helium chair which is great but I need new wheels & new wheel rims which I’m really struggling to find 👨🏻🦽Rich
An elderly man in a nursing home I worked at got measured for a wheelchair but I don't think they did that much measuring as your guy did, at least it didn't take very long. I kinda felt they didn't really do it properly it wasn't like your wheelchair more like a very basic one that could be adjusted.
Hello I want know how much from u Space inch u need from ur foot plate to the floor. I'm going have to make a custom wheelchair soon. I'm going have to make a custom wheelchair soon.
I find the major weak point of any chair is the front castors and forks.. Not a problem indoors but outside life soon show up as a weak point if they can't cope.
A friend of mine was born arthritic, she is going to get a wheelchair. She likes the "dump" of a quadraplegics chair. any advice for her one way or the other?
I’m an ambulatory user and I still have a “dump” in my chair and ergonomic seating, it really helps my hips and makes it super comfortable to sit in, it might not be as extreme as some people’s chairs but I definitely recommend having on
I don't know why. But turned my phone on it's side to watch full screen and it completely cut your head off 😖 that's not what I was hoping for. Still gonna watch it tiny screen though lol
Hi everyone. its so good to be back, and I can’t wait to share the rest of this series with you. Why not check out these videos next? As always please leave your expires, and tips bellow for others doing research. 😍
How to choose a wheelchair in 2022 (part 1)
ua-cam.com/video/ohORKZKkY_4/v-deo.html
Costly mistakes people make when choosing a wheelchair:
ua-cam.com/video/3VLGaeLYa3Q/v-deo.html
My Wheelchair is causing me problems
ua-cam.com/video/uHv5oRLSo0o/v-deo.html
How to fund a wheelchair
ua-cam.com/video/TFnK989-gig/v-deo.html
How to buy a stairlift
ua-cam.com/video/wx7X68Xo7gs/v-deo.html
I am trying to get a tray for my powerchair but they will not give me one as I do not lean on it because I am strapped in to hold me up, and it is an uphill battle to get one to use as I am visually impaired and would have a good use for it so I can put stuff in front of me when I need to look at stuff that may be too heavy for me, plus being strapped in I can only move so close to things.
Thank you!
I don't need to watch this as I know all this stuff already... let me just say, if you use Metric, the likelihood of your foot plate or whatever hitting the pavement is less, and I live in the US... I am just picky and look how most things are not made here and built where they use Metric anyhow. I use a complex rehab powerchair your fitting is not even half of what I go through lady. I should add that I have tilt and recline and that seat adjustment you wanted, I naturally adjust to that tilting back a little. Try with the shoes on too as your legs will be adjusted to a higher position with them on then off... shoes that are normal to what you usually wear daily, for an example of both with and without shoes. I had to go to the hospital to get measured for my new chair... that would be really nice to have all that come to me... Covid or no @#%& Covid going on! SOAFB, the fight to have them come to me, with N95 masks on! I am getting a tray for my chair and it was not easy to get them to come for that, every single F'ing thing has to be a damn fight with idiots, to the point I am not doing as many medical check ups as the doctor now thinks that it would be dangerous for me to come in... which is better then coming in. On top of that I had people coming in my home who I rather not have here and they needed to be told to wear a mask or to get the F away from my apartment! Oh by the way it is senior and handicapped housing here so it really looked bad when the people working here needed to F'ing be told to wear a mask. Even the people who work here delivering dinners they have no idea why someone might be staying home and getting food delivered from the dinning hall, as someone could have Covid and now they are just getting it and passing it which vaccine or not you can still get, and yes I have got that sh!t done already.
@@wheelieblind How frustrating. Often People with disabilities are treated like they can't understand themselves. You know what you need more than anyone else. I hope you were able to get one.
😊
I think my top tip for people (especially ambulatory users) who have never had one (or a custom) before is to actually go to the showroom to get measured! It let me see all of the possible options and try out different chairs to figure out my Centre of gravity etc. I’d only ever tried my friend’s wheelchair (who didn’t need it anymore) so I didn’t have any real idea of what features were possible etc.
I went to the company, and they STILL didn't measure me correctly. Wasted over £2K.
That’s a good tip. Thanks for sharing
I needed a powerchair with suspension because of my pain. Having heard about custom powerchairs, I trawled through mobility companies, on the phone, for hours before finally finding a company who could reduce the size of the powerchair for my flat. They came round, I discussed my needs, they took measurements. I am so grateful and thankful for my powerchair.
amazing. Im so glad to hear you have found something. Makes such a differece to your life when you have the right aids. x
I love you
I want to marry wheelchair woman
Oooooo I just called the wheelchair people who gave me my current manual wheelchair to see if they would swap it over because of pain as well
I had a similar fitting/measurement done by RGK (who like Cyclone also have wheelchair users as their sales reps). We ended up meeting in a shopping centre since my flat isn’t fully accessible!
I have hEDS (and neuropathy) and can walk a little, so some of my considerations were a little different, but mostly very similar.
My own tips:
- When researching chairs, remember if a price is listed it will be the “base” price. Options can add up fast! Make sure you know what options are vital to you (e.g. scissor brakes, adjustable push handles, side guards/fenders etc.) Sometimes if you Google the chair, you can get price lists that give you an indication of the final cost.
- Remember that folding chairs are almost guaranteed to be heavier than rigid chairs - and they’re not necessarily smaller to transport.
- When getting a rigid chair, a folding backrest is pretty essential to fit it in a car etc. Some chairs (like my RGK Tiga FX) also fold the front of the frame to make them even easier to transport once you’ve removed the wheels.
- Remember the cushion! They’re often pretty expensive and also need to be taken into account when taking measurements. Even if you have no pressure issues, a cushion will cost at least £50+
- Backrest height… higher doesn’t equal better if you have back pain. Higher backrests actually push me into a poor posture, so I’m in way less pain with a lower backrest! Also look into rigid backrests - although these are pricey.
- Pushrims - if you have any hand/wrist pain, poor hand function or difficulty gripping, then consider shaped pushrims (e.g. Gekko, Surge, Ellipse) - for me they make the difference between being able to self propel down several streets and not being able to get halfway up my road!
- Seat depth is important if you want to sit with your legs tucked in. My NHS chair didn’t take into account that my cushion sticks out further than the seat… meaning it digs into the back of my knees uncomfortably.
- Push handles. If you have a fluctuating condition, these can be super important. Because I’m short, the fold down push handles on my NHS chair are too low for someone to push me any distance. My new chair has height adjustable push handles - which I can remove when I don’t want them!
- Castor wheels shouldn’t be overlooked. If you’re a newer wheelie, I wouldn’t go any smaller than 4-5” (6” max). The chunkier/wider castors give a smoother ride. Good when you are in pain from any jolts!
- Consider where you’ll use your chair. If you want to use it outside a lot (even on relatively smooth pavements), look into a FreeWheel or FrontWheel attachment. If you struggle to self propel and might need a power assist device, do not choose a carbon fibre chair.
- It’s important for active chairs to be snug fitting… but bear in mind what clothing you normally wear. If you live somewhere cold/wet, don’t get measured in a t-shirt and shorts and forget to leave any room for a jumper/coat etc!
- Colours… many wheelchair users pick metal/silver, black or white frames. But if you’re someone like me who ADORES a certain colour, don’t be afraid to pick what you love! Chairs don’t have to be boring and practical. Mine is purple with rainbow wheels! 😁
great tips!
Thanks so much for all the tips. Id love to see your purple chair. Feel free to send me a pic on insta or email :)
I have an RGK Fx and got told I couldn’t have height adjustable handles! Then again I did want it to still fit in an overhead locker on a plane… the push handles are the one thing I wish I could change!
@@charlottehesketh9703 Mine are technically “stroller” handles (like they put on the kids chairs) - and they did have to add a back bar/extra tubing for them. So my FX probably wouldn’t fit in most plane overhead lockers. Thankfully I normally travel by car, bus or train! I told them I just wanted it small enough to fit in a train’s luggage area (I sit in a regular seat).
I guess there must be some reason the regular adjustable handles don’t work with the chair… or they just won’t put them on for people who want to fly?
@@purpleautisticgirl that makes sense thank you! Yeah I think I recall and said they could add them but it would add bulk which prevents it fitting. You might still have some luck in the staff cabinets on a plane! Mine fitted in there twice so it’s worth asking!
When I got my second chair, I increased my dump from 2" to 3" because it made it easier for me to carry things in my lap! My knees are now a tad bit higher than my lap, so grocery bags and such don't fall over or slide off as much anymore. I am currently in OT school and have an interest in seating and mobility :)
I read once that a wheelchair (Paraplegia) user of 50 years made mistakes in choosing this and that with every single chair he bought. So your detailed look at this is just what is needed imho. Peter
REMEMBER: These people are salespeople *first* and *foremost* - they might be Disabled, but they are selling you company products. That's why it's a good idea to have someone with you, even if you think you can handle yourself.
😊
My first ultra--light wheelchair was done during the high end of the pandemic, it was done over the phone via video, I do have a power chair but I actually like going manual, I don't have to worry about how much battery life is left, my chair is fully adjustable, a bit pricey, I can see why the insurance tried to stick me with a hospital type, my ultralight is way more user friendly
I love that you empahsize research when it comes to wheelchairs, but I believe it’s important for any medical device that essential becomes part of you. YOU are the one that has to live with it, and it has to be what you want.
I don’t require a mobility aid, but I do wear an insulin pump. There are good pumps on the market, each with their pros and cons. I’m attached to this thing 24/7, so it had to be the one that was best for ME. The only way to know that is to gather as much information as you can from manufacturers, healthcare professionals, and actual patients. I love your channel, btw. Having a chronic illness myself has made me curious about challenges others face with situations quite different to my own. You’ve opened my eyes to things I’ve never considered!!
I wish I had been warned more about getting the correct width! I got my chair second-hand (with the agreement of my OT) so I did not get to try it before I bought it. The seat is too wide for me, only by about an inch/inch and a half on each side, but it's so much more work to self propel than in a snug chair. My arms are out slightly too far to be comfortable when reaching the wheels, and the backrest hits my arms - much like the Jaguar featured in this video.
Please please make sure you're comfy with the width of any new chair! It's one of the most important measurements in my opinion.
agreed. My davinchi chair is 16inch wide. My new one is 15 and nice and snug and it makes a huge difference. x
Great tips, especially when choosing your wheelchair for the first time. He certainly covered a lot of things which I never thought of asking. Especially when it came to what type of seat you wanted. That is something I never thought of
Im so glad you found it useful. :)
This is really helpful thank you!🤗🙏 I am quite new to wheelchairs due to significant mobility issues. I have so far wasted money on two chairs that are not suitable simply because I trusted what they were telling me in the store. I am looking to get an active wheelchair now and your video has been a big help thank you.☺️☺️☺️
I think this is the third time I've watched this video. From hoping I would someday get a wheelchair, to buying a second hand one, to now actually having a wheelchair fitting within the next month. Thank you for all the information Gem. I'm sure I'll be back at this video someday.
im so excited about this vid! im realizing after using a hospital chair for over a year that im going to need a lightweight rigid frame. ideally i'll be able to get a custom, but if i cannot afford it or my doctor refuses to refer me to a seating specialist, i wanna be able to at least get a second-hand rigid frame thats as close as i can get to a diy measurements
Your videos are worrying fresh and expressing to people on a wheelchair tune and I have lotto MS and your videos spared me to get out my wheelchair and don't let anybody steer me down. Thank you, and I'm from Idaho. Bye. John will cox 😊😊
As someone who is" Only" an ambulant wheelchair user I tend to buy all mine second hand, my last one was a bargain, I thought the extra 2" seat depth wouldn't be an issue....
Big mistake so uncomfortable, I may compromise on width but never 15" Depth as is my current one...
Shame it weights 8kg without wheels. 🤣🙄
Added this to my public playlist on wheelchairs!
Thank you for letting us learn from you!
❤
I wish that we had wheelchair people had such care in the USA 🇺🇸. I have always liked your shows...
In the uk you only tend to get people like this if you go private but with our nhs system you get nothing like this lol
In the US I think you have hands on concepts and they are apparently really good wheels2walking went there and did a video about them so you might wanna check that out if you need it
@@mathew-marcus7862 thanks for info. I am a Vietnam War veteran 1966-67 and have paralyzed legs for many years. The Veterans Administration will give me a wheelchair that is too heavy and hard to manage. But I get no special treatment and they see me years apart.
@@johnbethea4505 wow I find it absolutely discussing how they can treat you like that my brother is currently in the Royal air force and I could never imagine them doing that over here I'm so sorry they are treating you so badly and thank you for your service I may not be American but I still know how much you have done for your country
@@mathew-marcus7862 thank you. Love and talk to your brother regularly for one day he may not come home with the troubles that we having in the world today. He should be your Hero...
Thank you for sharing this! I know I am going to need a wheelchair and I am so nervous but this will help me be better prepared for it.
I know this is an older video and I am from the US, but it's been helpful to learn what to expect. I hope to be fitted for a chair soon, now that I can afford one! Thank you Gem, you are the bomb!
I know it's been two years since this. But I've come back as I have a fitting on Thursday and needing some info beforehand. - I made a list of what I want to keep, try and change from my current NHS wheelchair. - it just doesn't suit my needs any more, and they won't change it because it's "not a significant change".
Helps each single time. Thank you, dear! Be blessed! Yours, Tabea
Thank you 😊
“Know your level of injury” straight away as a very sick EDS sufferer who can’t walk due to Joint Issues , this type of sentence gives me the feeling that I wouldn’t be taken seriously by this company.
My "level of injury" is a progressive and degenerative disorder that includes spastic paraplegia and even periodic paralysis. Plus POTS and EDS. Some days my arms are okay, some days my left arm is a useless noodly limp thing that exists only as a painful *thing* on my torso.
Like, how do I explain that my "level of injury" can shift and change multiple times a day? Sometimes I will suddenly feel awful or very suddenly feel better (rare but nice when that happens tbh), out of 20 steps I could syncope or sublux with every step but can't predict it... like what do people like us do when "level of injury" is not quantifiable? Not able to be known until the moment exists?
@@QueerCripple in the context, the seller meant level of injury as in lower back or middle back injury, assuming all wheelchair users have spinal cord injuries. When in fact only a tiny 2% of wheelchair user world wide have some sort of paralysis. Not having permanent injury does not disqualify someone from being a wheelchair user if they cannot move around… Which explains my comment. 🙃
@@Junes.dreams.uk_ yeah right there with you, I am very new to wheelchair use and still unlearning toxic things (I used to believe you needed to have non-working legs or be elderly, turns out you can just go on Amazon and buy a wheelchair if you want, like wow... and my doctors had me start using one because of syncope, I can generally walk for extended periods of time but standing still like in a grocery line will have me pass out!) but it seems that most wheelchair related help specifically assumes you have a spinal injury and 0% ability to move yourself. I recently did an intake interview for in-home help and they had a question... "Are you a wheelchair user, OR can you walk?" Um. Both. But both was not an option. So even though I technically can walk, they have me categorized as not having a walking ability. Come on, really now. It's 2022! We can learn this stuff!
@@Junes.dreams.uk_ ty for explaining what the "level" in level of injury means though! That's mot how my brain interpreted it. My brain interpreted "level of injury" as in "level of severity of disability" or "level of care needs".
@@Junes.dreams.uk_ Yes, there is that assumption. People use wheelchairs/powerchairs for all sorts of reasons.
So many people made mistakes in choosing their mobility scooter's that Motability issued a "does and dont's" type advisory leaflet to help people avoid some mistakes.
Great video
This has been super helpful!❤
For myself I watched your previous videos before going for my first wheelchair, and I found it really helpful just to have some level of expectation. I had my ot do mine, and due to my condition and line of work. We ended up going for an all-terrain electric wheelchair. If it’s your first wheelchair, consider how the public will react. So I’m part time I can get in and out to get high up things however in areas where people don’t know me. The public rushes forward to assist, it’s very kind of them however I could very easily get injured from this. When selecting a wheelchair I didn’t go with the tilt to stand aspect. And I wish I did just based on how the public reacted.
Thanks for sharing :)
Hi I'm loving this new series ❤❤ just wondering who did all of the illustrations such as this one here 4:48 I love their style. Can't wait to see your final chair 😊
Thank you so much. Ive been working hard on this for about a year. Its been two years in the making. Thank you for saying about the illustrations, as I made them myself (with templates from canva) but they took hours and spoons!!! xxx
@@Wheelsnoheels wow that's amazing 👏 love you gem ❤
Omg thank you for this video! Ive been trying to get a wheelchair for 2 years now and Insurance won't let me just PICK ONE, even though my current one is from the dumpster, because they want me to get "fitted" for one. I truly don't understand what they mean, like I said my current chair was literally by a dumpster with a "free" sign taped to it, I have no clue about PROPER wheelchairs for my body... but I know that the backs of my arms and shoulders are in agony from the stupid handles. Backs of my arms just bruised to bits...
But anyway I haven't scheduled for a fitting yet because nobody will give me a detailed explanation of what that means, and so I'm still using the same wheelchair, from the dumpster, one broken brake, never been adjusted. Maybe after watching your video I will actually be able to schedule for a fitting!
Awww so sorry to hear of your struggles. I hope this video has helped you, and you can get a chair better suited to you :)
love the art in this video Gem!!
Hi Gem welcome information about to get a new WC myself have a day love from TEXAS
I know my custom chair needs to be a snug fit for the waist width, but I get nervous that weight fluctuation is going to affect it.
I wish they had a great company like this in the US
Brilliant video and spot on
One measurement the I would like to know more about is wheel size (24, 25 or 26 inch) and how it will affect other measurements. Also will arm length be determined by this or not?
Hello😀, I’m curious on your width size when you said, “snug fit”. Are your hip guards touching your skin? Have you ever had any pressure sores or redness on the side of your hips due to your hip guards being too close? I recently got my new chair and I could have went with a snug fit of a 15 inch width but I was told that a 16 inch would be better for me. I was told that if I was too snug/tight in my seat that my skin would be rubbing on the side guards that could lead to possible pressure sores. So I went with a 16 inch. I have a good 1/2 inch , 3/4 inch, of empty space on each side guard. (My weight can fluctuate but I’m not overweight at all). I’m okay with my choice because I feel like my back fits me great where as if I went with a smaller back rest it might have been to tight. Just want to know your thoughts for my next wheelchair. Thank you.
So helpful! Thank u!
Great video Gem, I’m looking to get a custom chair at some point this year as currently have a WCS active chair but so much I dislike about it, although was a good first chair… I will definitely consider Cyclone as having a Batec also the welded bracket would be awesome, can’t wait to see part three - stay safe my friend x
The weded batec bar is life changing, as the bars can add 3kg. If its welded, you hardly notice it.. :)
thanks, jen now i what to do
Gem the wheelchair looks great, I have a Quickie Helium chair which is great but I need new wheels & new wheel rims which I’m really struggling to find
👨🏻🦽Rich
I want a foldable wheelchair
An elderly man in a nursing home I worked at got measured for a wheelchair but I don't think they did that much measuring as your guy did, at least it didn't take very long. I kinda felt they didn't really do it properly it wasn't like your wheelchair more like a very basic one that could be adjusted.
Hello I want know how much from u
Space inch u need from ur foot plate to the floor.
I'm going have to make a custom wheelchair soon. I'm going have to make a custom wheelchair soon.
I find the major weak point of any chair is the front castors and forks..
Not a problem indoors but outside life soon show up as a weak point if they can't cope.
Gem where is your over wheelchair grips
Speaking of disability I probably have multiple sclerosis myself
NICELY DONE.🦽🦽🦽🦽
I look forward to seeing you tearing about on your new wheels.
they always want to fit you in the stadard chair that does'nt work, thx jem
A friend of mine was born arthritic, she is going to get a wheelchair. She likes the "dump" of a quadraplegics chair. any advice for her one way or the other?
I’m an ambulatory user and I still have a “dump” in my chair and ergonomic seating, it really helps my hips and makes it super comfortable to sit in, it might not be as extreme as some people’s chairs but I definitely recommend having on
I have gone for a lot of dump to help with my lower back and hips. If she has access to and OT, I would advise she speak to them :)
I don't know why. But turned my phone on it's side to watch full screen and it completely cut your head off 😖 that's not what I was hoping for. Still gonna watch it tiny screen though lol
The fact you are still watching me headless means a lot. :)
I could just about see your chin 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Thanks!
Thank you so much 😊
Awesome video
thank you :)