A well-adjusted seat angle also promotes better breathing and digestion, while making transfers easier and safer for caregivers. For wheelchair users who spend extended hours seated, this ergonomic design elevates both body performance and social confidence, delivering a smoother, healthier, and more active wheelchair experience. 

What Is the “Golden Seat-to-Back Angle” for wheelchairs?

The so-called “golden seat-to-back angle“ is made up of two key components that work together to create the ideal sitting posture for wheelchair users.

Key Angle 1: The Wheelchair Seat Angle

The seat angle determines how stable the user’s sitting posture is in the wheelchair.

The seat angle affects pelvic tilt and stability — and a stable pelvis means a stable sitting posture.

• Flat seat (0°): The user must rely entirely on their own strength to stay upright. When muscle strength is limited, the pelvis tends to tilt backward, leading to slouching or sliding forward in the seat. 

• Negative seat angle (front lower than back): The body naturally leans forward, making users easier to stand up. However, after about 30 minutes, the user may unconsciously lean backward to stabilize the posture, concentrating pressure on the sitting bones and increasing the risk of pressure sores. 

• Positive seat angle (the front slightly higher, around 3°–7°): This helps the body lean naturally against the backrest, improving pelvic stability and reducing forward sliding. It also promotes a more relaxed, balanced, and comfortable sitting position. 

In short, the pelvis is the foundation of posture. Once it tilts or slides, the upper body loses stability, causing fatigue and discomfort. The right seat angle “locks in“ the pelvis, allowing the back to rest securely and the user to move more efficiently with less effort. 

Key Angle 2: The Seat-to-Backrest Angle

The seat-to-backrest angle plays a crucial role in overall sitting comfort and stability.

• The seat-to-backrest angle determines how stable the upper body remains while seated.
  
• Smaller angles (less than 90°–95°): These help stabilize the pelvis and improve upper-body mobility. However, when maintained for long periods, they may cause the pelvis to tilt backward, leading to slouching, spinal strain, and restricted chest expansion.
• Moderate angles (between 95°–110°): Opening the angle slightly relieves pressure on the waist and abdomen, allowing for easier breathing and greater comfort. It also helps users with limited hip flexibility maintain a more stable, supported position.
• Larger angles (over 110°): A more reclined position can reduce sitting pressure and enhance relaxation during extended use. Still, it‘s important to watch for forward pelvic sliding and reduced mobility when reclining too far. 

For users with good physical function, the ideal seat-to-backrest angle is typically between 95° and 105°, offering the best balance between stable support and long-term comfort. 

The Perfect Pairing of Angles

α = the seat-to-backrest angle; φ = the seat angle; 
α+φ = Functional Angle

Adjusting only the backrest angle isn‘t enough to stabilize the pelvis. Without a proper seat angle, the pelvis can still slide forward. The true “golden“ seat-to-back angle requires the right combination of both angles to create a stable pelvic foundation. This allows users to sit upright effortlessly, lift their heads naturally, and enjoy a clearer view as well as a fuller life.

The Impact of the ⍺ + 𝜙 Functional Angle on Wheelchair Users
《All there is to know about sitting》(Harrie Staarink. 2011)

The 4 Benefits of the Golden Seat-to-Back Angle

1. Improves Posture and Spinal Health
   A gentle recline helps distribute spinal pressure evenly, reducing the risk of scoliosis or hunching caused by long hours of sitting upright or leaning forward.
2. Relieves Discomfort and Increases Sitting Endurance
   By stabilizing the pelvis, the golden seat-to-back angle reduces the risk of pressure injuries and enhances comfort for prolonged sitting.
3. Opens the Chest and Boosts Breathing Efficiency
   A slightly reclined posture expands the chest cavity, allowing smoother, deeper breathing. For users who spend long hours in a wheelchair, this means less fatigue and more energy throughout the day.
4. Builds Confidence and Encourages Social Engagement
   When users can sit upright and meet others at eye level, conversations flow more naturally. 

Therapists have observed that after adjusting to the ideal angle, users become more willing to engage in community events — because lifting your head is, in itself, an expression of confidence. 

How to Find Your Golden Angle

1. Professional Evaluation: Start with a posture assessment by a seating specialist or therapist.
2. Dynamic Adjustment: Different activities such as reading, relaxing, socializing, may require different angles. Choose a wheelchair with adjustable seating functions for flexibility.
3. Comfort First: There‘s no universal “perfect“ angle. The best setup is the one that supports your body, relieves pressure, and helps you sit tall comfortably. 

More Than Medical — It’s About Everyday Living

An incorrect seating angle can often lead to slouching or downward gazes, causing both discomfort and a lack of confidence. In contrast, when the seat-to-back angle is properly adjusted, users can look up and meet others‘ eyes — a simple yet powerful step toward genuine connection. 

The golden seat-to-back angle isn‘t just about comfort; it‘s a clinically supported and ergonomically proven way to achieve the best sitting posture. 

Ergo 3, The wheelchair designed around the Golden Seat-to-Back Angle, reduces physical strain, enhances breathing and focus, and helps users engage naturally in social interaction.
From posture and breathing to confidence and connection — Ergo 3 supports your every moment.
Discover Ergo 3 Today 

FAQ

Q1: What Is the Golden Seat-to-Back Angle?
A: The Golden Seat-to-Back Angle refers to the Functional Angle, formed by the combination of the seat angle and the seat-to-backrest angle. This ergonomic setup helps stabilize the pelvis, distribute sitting pressure, expand the user‘s field of vision, and boost social confidence. The ideal range is generally around 110°. 

Q2: Why Does the Backrest Angle Affect Breathing and Digestion?
A: When the backrest is too upright or the user slouches, the chest and abdomen are compressed, leading to shallow breathing and poor digestion. A slightly reclined position allows the chest to open up, improving oxygen flow, easing abdominal pressure, and enhancing energy levels. 

Q3: Can the Golden Seat-to-Back Angle Prevent Pressure Sores?
A: Not completely. The right sitting angle can help stabilize the pelvis and redistribute pressure across the thighs and buttocks, reducing concentration on the sitting bones. However, preventing pressure sores still requires additional strategies, such as using an air cushion and performing regular pressure-relief movements. 

Q4: Is There One Universal Golden Angle for Everyone?
A: No. The Golden Angle serves as a guideline rather than a fixed standard. Since every user‘s body and mobility needs are different, the ideal angle should be determined through a professional seating assessment by a therapist or assistive device center. 

Q5: What Makes Ergo 3 Special?
A: Ergo 3 is the wheelchair designed around the Golden Seat-to-Back Angle. It balances pelvic stability, smooth breathing, and confident posture, helping users achieve true harmony between health and everyday living. 

Contact Us

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5 Steps to Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Wheelchair Legrest

How Can the Right Wheelchair Help an Elderly Caregiver

What Does a Caregiver Do for the Elderly?

In this post, we’re breaking down some of the most common misconceptions about wheelchair crash testing and what you really need to know.

Would your wheelchair survive a crash? Certified testing ensures the answer is yes.
Pictured: Crash-tested model – Morgan M Lectus.

1. “A crash-tested wheelchair protects you like a car seat.”

The truth: A crash-tested wheelchair is designed to stay intact and properly secured during a crash, reducing the risk of injury. However, it doesn’t offer the same crash protection as a vehicle seat with airbags or a seatbelt built into the frame. You still need a proper occupant restraint system.

2. “You can use any part of a crash-tested wheelchair to tie it down.”

The truth: Only use designated, clearly labeled tie-down points that have been tested as part of the crash test protocol. Never secure the wheelchair by armrests, footplates, or accessory mounts — these aren’t structurally built to withstand crash forces.

For a KARMA wheelchair, search for this label:

Power Wheelchair

Manual Wheelchair

3. “As long as the wheelchair is tied down, it’s safe.”

The truth: Tying down the wheelchair is just one part of the equation. The user also needs a separate, properly positioned seatbelt system — ideally a lap and shoulder belt, anchored to the vehicle, not the wheelchair. This is critical to prevent serious injury during a crash.

Want to learn more? Read our full guide: How to Safely Transport a Wheelchair User in a Vehicle ›

4. “ ‘Crash tested’ means the entire wheelchair is safe for travel.”

The truth: Crash test certification usually applies only to a specific configuration — the exact frame, seating system, headrest, tie-down points, and sometimes even the cushion used during the test. If you swap any major part (like a backrest), additional tests are usually required.

5. “All power wheelchairs are crash tested.”

The truth: Not all power wheelchairs undergo crash testing — especially complex rehab models or those with modular components. If crash test is your priority, ask for official documentation or check the manufacturer’s compliance with ISO or RESNA standards.

Certified Products: EVO1.1 Altus & EVO1.1 Lectus LR Tested and certified by TASS Laboratory to meet safety and performance standards.

Curious about how KARMA ensures safety?
Read more in KARMA’s Innovation: Testing and Reliability of KARMA Wheelchairs ›

What You Can Do

• Look for wheelchairs that are certified to ISO 7176-19 or RESNA WC19 standards.
• Always use approved tie-downs and occupant restraints during transport.
• Ask your dealer or clinician to confirm if your specific wheelchair setup is crash tested.
• Never assume — always check the label or documentation.

Transport safety isn’t about labels—it’s about decisions. Knowing how crash-tested systems work, and using them correctly, gives wheelchair users the confidence to travel with greater safety and peace of mind.

Whether you’re a caregiver, clinician, or user, understanding these basics helps ensure that the wheelchair—and the person using it—arrives safely every time.

Explore Our Crash Test Approved Models:

EVO Altus

EVO Lectus

Leon F Versus

Leon F Kameleon

Leon R Versus

Leon R Sling

Morgan M Sling

Morgan M Versus

Blazer Sling

KP-25.2 (Falcon)

eFlexx

Ergo Lite

Ergo Lite 2 Tall

Flexx

Flexx Junior

Flexx S

VIP 2

VIP 515

MVP 502

S-Ergo 125

S-Ergo 115

S-Ergo 105

S-Ergo 205

Agile

KM-5000

KM-1500

FAQ｜Think Your Wheelchair Is Travel-Safe? Think Again.

Q1. If my wheelchair says “crash tested,” am I fully protected?
A: Not entirely. A crash-tested wheelchair helps, but it doesn’t come with airbags or built-in restraints. You still need to wear the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belts for full protection.

Q2. Can I just strap the wheelchair anywhere to keep it in place?
A: No. Only use the marked tie-down points on the wheelchair. Don’t use armrests, footrests, or accessories—they can break during a crash.

Q3. If the wheelchair is tied down, do I still need a seatbelt?
A: Yes! Securing the wheelchair doesn’t secure you. You also need a properly positioned lap and shoulder belt anchored to the vehicle, not the chair.

Q4. If the wheelchair is crash tested, is it always safe no matter how I use it?
A: Not always. Crash tests apply to a specific setup, like the original seat, cushion, headrest, and tie-down points. If any of these parts are swapped or adjusted, the wheelchair may no longer meet the tested safety standard..

Q5. Aren’t all power wheelchairs crash tested these days?
A: Not all of them! Especially complex or customizable models may not be crash tested. If transport safety matters to you, ask for ISO 7176-19 or WC19 certification.

Morgan M Lectus underwent dynamic crash testing at TASS Laboratory to verify its performance in real-world collision scenarios.

“Want to make sure your wheelchair is truly crash tested? Ask your dealer about ISO 7176-19 certification or contact us for more info.”

Contact Us

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How To Safely Transport a Wheelchair User in a Vehicle

KARMA’s Innovation; Testing and Reliability of KARMA Wheelchairs

5 Steps to Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Wheelchair Legrest

Best Lightweight Power KARMA Wheelchairs for Travelling

What Is a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle

1. Know Your Range of Knee Motion 

The range of knee motion is probably one of the most critical measurements in the legrest prescription process. Over-stretched legs are not only uncomfortable but can also lead to poor posture over time. 

Reference article: The Fundamental Importance of Knee Range of Motion

Reference article: The Fundamental Importance of Knee Range of Motion

• Within Normal Limits (WNL): If knee flexion falls within normal limits, most legrest options should be suitable.
• Fixed Knee Contracture Over 90 Degrees: When knee angles are fixed at over 90 degrees, proper support usually requires specific alignment between seat depth and a customized legrest.
• Limited Knee Flexion or Fixed Knee Contracture: For users with limited knee flexion or fixed contractures, it’s important to choose a legrest that supports the exact angle needed.

1. 1. Tool-adjustable legrests and manual elevating legrests are the most commonly used options.  
   2. Users with high muscle tone over the knees will benefit from tool-adjustable legrests, as these allow for a stable, fixed position. 
   3. If different limitations exist in each knee, sperated legrests with an independent angle-adjusting function are often the better choice. 

2. Consider Your Transfer Method

If you frequently transfer into and out of your wheelchair from its side, it’s essential to choose a legrest that won’t obstruct your movement. Central legrests provide clearance on both sides of the legs, which can be a game-changer for users with limited hand mobility to have smooth transfers.  

For those who prefer transferring from the front of the wheelchair, swing away legrests can clear the leg space entirely. However, if a user lacks sufficient hand function to swing the legrest away, consider legrests that allow the footplate to lower to the ground. Paired with anterior tilt or low seat height, this setup enables users to step out of the wheelchair directly from the front.  

3. Choose the Right Footplates

Don’t overlook the footplate design when selecting a legrest. Not all footplates are compatible with every legrest, so be sure to consult with your dealer or therapist to ensure the right match.  

The central mount footboard is ideal for compact space or indoor if it can be positioned at an angle close to 90 degrees.

For users without any leg deformities, either a one-piece or two-piece footplate is suitable. However, if there is a leg length discrepancy, two-piece footplates are recommended to accommodate different footplate heights on each side.

Adjustable footplate is ideal for individuals with foot deformities, as it can be tilted forward and backward, and the lateral angle can also be adjusted. 

Special mention should be made of Amputee Legrests, which typically feature shortened support and angle adjustability. Some models also provide lateral support to help keep the residual limb stable. 

4. Think About Leg Elevation Needs

If you have a positioning wheelchair and you have no deformities in your lower extremities, consider whether manual or powered elevating legrests are better suited to your needs and abilities.  

To enhance circulation in the lower limbs, a tilt-in-space wheelchair equipped with elevating legrests can be highly effective. The key principle is to position the legs higher than the head, which promotes better blood flow. 

Pro Tip:  Biomechanical length compensation allows the legrest to adjust in length as the angle changes, reducing strain on the joints. It’s especially important for users who cannot reposition themselves in their wheelchair.

5. Consult Your Therapist for Special Positioning

For individuals with severe deformities in the pelvis, trunk, and lower extremities, a specialized positioning setup is necessary to ensure sitting stability, comfort, and driving efficiency. A therapist’s assessment plays a crucial role in selecting the most suitable legrests to support proper posture. 

Conclusion 

Choosing the right legrest for your wheelchair is essential for maximizing both comfort and functionality. By taking into account factors such as your range of knee motion, transfer methods, footplate design, leg elevation needs, and specific sitting posture, you can make an informed decision tailored to your individual requirements. If you have further questions about selecting legrests, consulting a qualified therapist and your dealer for professional guidance is key to making the right choice. 

Tzuyu Lin, PT, Product Manager

Tzuyu Lin is a physiotherapist and Product Manager at KARMA headquarters. She began her career at the Rehabilitation Engineering Lab at National Taiwan University, focusing on exoskeleton studies, and later gained five years of physiotherapy experience at an orthopedics clinic.

Since joining KARMA in 2021 as a Product Specialist, Tzuyu has focused on custom adaptations and complex rehab technology. Now part of the product management team, she co-developed the KARMA Flexx Adapt wheelchair.

Keep Reading

Which Leg Rest Should You Choose?

How Do the Footplates Contribute to a Comfortable Sitting Position?

Busting Myths about the Leg Rests on a Wheelchair

Independence and freedom

The wheelchair is the most popular assistive device, and it’s easy to see why. A wheelchair can give back the feeling of independence and freedom to someone who might have previously felt dependent and restricted. A wheelchair can provide mobility to someone to help them get around, no matter how short or far the distance. A wheelchair can assist a wide range of mobility levels, lifestyles, backgrounds, and environment, making it the most versatile assistive device on the market. 

Having access to a wheelchair allows the user to travel independently wherever they want, whenever they need. The control they have over their own life will also improve self-confidence and allow users to take control of their own lives. 

Improves health

A wheelchair that fits properly can reduce secondary injuries such as scoliosis and pressure sores as a result of an ill-fitting wheelchair. With the proper wheelchair and supports, the wheelchair user can better propel and participate in more physical activities, thus improving their health. Choosing the right wheelchair not only means that the chair fits correctly, but it is also suitable for the user’s lifestyle. For example, if the user plans to use their wheelchair as their main form of transformation, if possible, the user can select a power wheelchair. This will relieve some of the physical effort that comes from propelling a wheelchair for long periods of time. 

Being able to move around comfortably will improve the user’s mental health by being able to take control of their own life and enjoying the freedom that comes along with having your own mobility device. 

Active member of the community

Wheelchairs are incredibly versatile and can be use used by men, women, young, or old. All of these roles are vital in an active community. In order to access the community, whether it be to go to work or attend school, a wheelchair can be used to provide access to these and other various activities. Without access to friends, family and peers, life can become lonely, so it’s important to have a way to access the company of others. 

No matter what wheelchair you decide to choose, there are benefits that go beyond recovery or rehabilitation. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) states that having a personal mobility device is a human right. A personal mobility device should have the ability to move in a matter and at the time of one’s own choice. Acquiring a wheelchair is not only a choice, but a human right. If you need help choosing the right wheelchair for you, KARMA Medical are always here to help.

Postural supports

Posture supports allow the user to sit in their wheelchair comfortably for longer. The postural supports can be bespoke for each user to increase stability and mobility. Increased stability is imperative to avoid long term injury. 

This is why selecting the right wheelchair is so important for each user. A therapist or doctor will provide the user with the accessories they need in order to sit comfortably and securely. 

Adjustable headrests

Power wheelchairs are typically already equipped with headrests, however, headrests can be added to manual wheelchairs should the user require additional head and support. For example, KARMA Medical’s Adjustable Headrest can be configured to the requirements of the user. Headrests not only reduce strain on the neck and shoulders, they also help maintain the user’s posture for a stable sitting position. Sitting comfortably will improve the user’s mobility and prevent long term injuries.

Tray table

A tray table may not seem like an obvious mobility aid, however it does assist in making it easier to navigate daily life. For example, if the user is planning to eat outdoors with their peers, outdoor seating is not always accommodating for wheelchair users. A tray table removes these obstacles, allowing any wheelchair to participate in everyday activities. Not only can a tray table be used to enjoy meals, but it can be used as a work surface for a laptop etc. 

A tray table is also great for elderly wheelchair users who may not be comfortable moving in and out of their wheelchairs at meal times or for other various activities. They can be used on both manual and power wheelchairs, which is great for all wheelchair users. 

Wheelchair bags

Wheelchair storage or a wheelchair bag may seem like an obvious accessory, but it’s also one of the most useful. There are a variety of wheelchair storage solutions to choose from, for example, backpacks, net bags, armrest bags, and tote bags. The backpack and tote bags can hang on the push handles of the wheelchair to provide plenty of additional storage when out and about. 

Wheelchair bags are a great place to store medical equipment and other necessities instead of keeping them on your lap. This will ensure that the belongings are safe and that the user’s mobility isn’t affected with the additional things.

All KARMA Medical wheelchair accessories are designed for comfort and support to assist not only the user but caregivers to improve mobility. There are accessories for both power and manual wheelchairs for not only support, but also to make daily life easier.

Increases your independence

Wheelchair users can sometimes feel like a burden, which results in them in wanting to be more independent. To go wherever they want, whenever they want. Sometimes a manual wheelchair may feel restricting however, a folding power wheelchair or power wheelchairs in general can increase the feeling of independence because you don’t need to rely on anyone to assist you. 

A foldable power wheelchair can help you as part of your daily routine to complete tasks as well as socialize with friends and family without the help of a caregiver. 

Increases happiness

With increased independence, you (the wheelchair user) will feel happier after completing tasks and activities that would otherwise not have been possible without a folding power wheelchair. This will boost your mood and those around you.

Saves space

A folding power wheelchair can be easily stored. As the name suggests, it can be folded to be more compact and often accessories removed to save even more space. They are perfect for individuals who don’t have a lot of living space. A foldable wheelchair also makes the chair easier to fit in the trunk of a car. This makes travelling a breeze, and you can save money by not needing to purchase a specialized car.

Convenient, lightweight, and foldable

KARMA has a wide range of lightweight folding power wheelchairs such as KP-25.2 and the eFlexx which can be easily transported or stored away when not in use. Being foldable and with removable parts also makes it easier to be transported by a caregiver. A lightweight foldable power wheelchair is a great option for users looking for a wheelchair for everyday use. 

Increased comfort

KARMA wheelchairs have been carefully crafted with the wheelchair user in mind. We understand that there are a wide range of wheelchair users with individual needs, which is why KARMA wheelchairs can be modified with a wide range of accessories and adjustments to ensure the utmost comfort of the user. The user should not only be comfortable sitting in the chair, but also be able to comfortably control the wheelchair. 

Safe to use and travel

Amongst the wide range of KARMA folding power wheelchair, a lot of models have been safety crash tested in accordance with international standard ISO 7176-19, which means that the wheelchair can be used as a seat in a motor vehicle. KP-25.2 has been a long time favourite folding power wheelchair amongst KARMA customers for good reason! KP-25.2 has been crash test approved, as well as passing other KARMA safety tests such as the Drop Resistance Test and the Rough Road Test. 

KARMA Fit

When choosing a wheelchair, it’s important to consider all the needs of the user. This includes their body measurements, prognosis, lifestyle, and budget; this is what we call the KARMA Fit. If you are still unsure or have questions about which wheelchair to choose, you can contact your local KARMA dealer or contact HQ. 

Ultra lightweight adjustable manual wheelchair 

Ergo Lite weighs a total of just 8.6 KG which is perfect for travelling with an elderly wheelchair user. The Ergo Lite series has proven a firm favourite amongst KARMA customers with hundreds of positive reviews on Amazon as well as winning Thiis Magazine’s 2020 Retailers’ Choice Award. 

This ultra lightweight wheelchair can be easily folded for convenient storage in the trunk of a car or at home when not in use. The Ergo Lite 2 has the option for large rear wheels if the user prefers the option to self propel when out and about. This wheelchair also comes with handy removable swing away footrests to make transferring in and out of the chair safe and easy.

The Ergo Lite series wheelchairs have been crash tested in accordance with international safety standard ISO 7176-19, which means it is suitable to be used as a seat in a motor vehicle for transportation. No matter where or how you are travelling to your destination, the Ergo Lite is a great companion for your trip! 

Lightweight manual wheelchairs designed for everyday use

Choose comfort every day when travelling from a wide range of S-Ergo lightweight manual wheelchairs. This series of manual wheelchairs includes the S-Ergo 125 that is equipped with flip back armrests and removable footrests for safe and easy wheelchair transfers. The foldable frames make S-Ergo 125 a great companion when travelling for easy storage. The S-Ergo lightweight manual wheelchairs are all equipped with KARMA’s patented S-Ergo Seating System to provide basic pressure relief when sitting for long stretches of time. 

Adaptable on the go

The Flexx series is KARMA’s range of adaptable chairs for a wide range of users. Flexx has a complete range of accessories that can be used during rehabilitation and to increase comfort. Flexx is an ideal wheelchair for travelling for its lightweight and foldable frame. Not only this but the backrest angle, height, seat depth, and rear axle can all be adjusted. If the user needs adjustments to their wheelchair made whilst traveling, this can all be done on Flexx. 

Affordable travel companion

For a more affordable wheelchair option whilst travelling, wheelchair users can choose Agile. The Agile is the latest innovation from the SOMA wheelchair range. Agile is lightweight and highly configurable; perfect for travelling! The quick release rear wheels make it convenient to store along with its foldable frame. Agile has also been crash tested in accordance with international safety standard ISO 7176-19, which means it is suitable to be used as a seat in a motor vehicle for transportation.

Don’t forget to consider the needs of the user!

Make sure to take into consideration the needs of the user as well as the convenient features of the manual wheelchair! Not every user is suitable for every chair. If you’re not sure which chair to choose, you could also consider renting a KARMA wheelchair during your travels. This would give the user a chance to try out a new chair, and it could be convenient to pick up the chair at the destination if travelling with a wheelchair is inconvenient. If you are travelling with an elderly user, you can take a look at our previous blog, travelling with an elderly wheelchair user, for our top travel tips!

Over time, many older people lose their mobility and are forced to use a wheelchair in their day-to-day lives. There are a wide range of wheelchairs that the elderly can choose from with many different functions. This blog will guide you to choose the right wheelchair most suitable for the elderly.   

Types of wheelchairs for the elderly

There are many types of wheelchairs for the elderly that they can choose from depending on their needs. KARMA has a large range of wheelchair solutions, no matter if the user needs a lightweight wheelchair for an elderly user or a positioning chair that can facilitate certain movements. 

Wheelchair for home

Indoor wheelchairs should be lightweight and easy to use. When caring for an elderly person at home, it is also important that the wheelchair is can be easily manoeuvred around the home, e.g., around tight corners and through often narrow doorways. Choosing a compact wheelchair will make it easier to get around limited spaces. Ergo Lite 2 has the option to be equipped with transit wheels that reduce the overall size of the chair. 

Another useful feature for a home wheelchair is that it can be foldable. When the user isn’t using the chair, if it can be folded and stored out of the way or taken in the car. KARMA has a large range of folding wheelchairs that the elderly user can travel with or store in a small space. 

Positioning wheelchairs

Positioning wheelchairs allow the elderly user to sit in a different position to relieve pressure and, if needed, can facilitate the care of the elderly user if necessary. KARMA’s positioning wheelchairs can be tilted, reclined, or both. Learn more about the benefits of a reclining and tilting wheelchair in a previous blog. 

Best wheelchairs for the elderly, what to know before buying?

There are several factors that should be taken into account before deciding on a wheelchair for the elderly. Such things to consider are the weight, if it is foldable, or should it be a power chair. These are all important things to think about, as there are many wheelchairs out there to choose from for each user. Remember that most wheelchairs can also be customised with different adjustments and accessories to suit the user. 

Ergo Lite 2 can be easily lifted and stored in the trunk of a car.

Which wheelchair is better for the elderly, manual or power?

The decision between choosing a manual or power wheelchair largely depends on the mobility of the elderly user. If the elderly person has good mobility in the arms and torso and good balance, then it is possible for them to use a self propel manual wheelchair. If they do not have any mobility and need to travel regularly, then a power wheelchair is the way to go. 

The decision is usually made by the person who will be caring for the elderly user. If the elderly person has good decent balance but unable to self-propel the chair, they can opt for a wheelchair with transit wheels that can be pushed by a caregiver. This is a good option for day-to-day use together with the assistance of a caregiver. If the elderly user does not have someone who can help them, then a power wheelchair may be a better choice. 

What factors should you consider before buying a wheelchair for the elderly?

The most important factor is the degree of mobility the elderly user has. In the case of older people, it is essential to bear in mind that the level of mobility decreases in most cases. This is why it is advisable to choose a wheelchair that is adjustable to adapt to the progressive loss of mobility an elderly person may suffer. Mobility products adapted to your needs and comfort.

KARMA Medical has a wide range of products to meet the needs of a wide range of users. KARMA also have wheelchairs specifically aimed for elderly wheelchair users, including lightweight wheelchairs, positioning wheelchairs, power chairs, and scooters. 

KARMA Medical wheelchairs are extensively safety tested to meet various international standards. If you still need advice about which chair to choose, you can contact your local KARMA dealer or contact KARMA here. 

Renting a wheelchair for travelling 

When families with elderly relatives go on holiday, sometimes renting a lightweight wheelchair is easier and more convenient than bringing their current wheelchair. Choosing to rent a lightweight wheelchair makes travelling much easier, especially if the rental is organised at the travel destination. Choosing to rent a wheelchair at the travel destination could save time and money if the user has to check the wheelchair on a plane. 

A lightweight wheelchair can have the option to have an attendant propelled (small rear wheels) or to be self-propelled by the user. The user and family can even choose a wheelchair with detachable leg rest if the user has difficulty transferring in and out of the wheelchair or the family are travelling by car and the chair needs to be extra compact. 

For users with elderly caregivers that want to travel either on a short holiday or grocery shopping, KARMA’s Ergo Lite is an overall great choice.

Renting a wheelchair for rehabilitation

The user is recovering from an accident and only needs a wheelchair during their rehabilitation, so renting a wheelchair for a short period of time is a great alternative to outright buying one. The user can save a lot of money, and it is potentially more friendly to the environment. Ideal candidates for renting a wheelchair for rehabilitation are typically those who have broken a leg or hip. 

If the injury occurred is a leg fracture or hip arthroplasty then the best wheelchair they can choose that will best facilitate their recovery is a wheelchair with detachable armrests and leg rests. KARMA’s Flexx series has an adjustable rear wheel axis that can be altered depending on the user’s upper body strength and confidence using a wheelchair. 

Rent to test a wheelchair before purchasing

People who have suffered from a stroke can sometimes be left with limited body movement. The case of someone who has little body strength will typically be told to look for a high back wheelchair. A high back wheelchair will typically come with extra functions like “Tilt-in-Space” and Recline that are designed to make the user more comfortable. These wheelchairs tend to be on the pricier side, so it’s understandable that families of the stroke patient may want to try and test the wheelchair before committing to purchasing.

High-back, reclining, and tilting wheelchairs are usually recommended for those who are in long-term recovery from a stroke. Source: KARMA Medical YouTube – VIP2 Tilt & Recline Wheelchair.

When is it time to purchase a wheelchair?

If the user needs a wheelchair for more than a few months then it could be more cost-effective to purchase a wheelchair. There are definitely advantages to purchasing a wheelchair. For example, the wheelchair belongs to you, and you can use it whenever you want. Your wheelchair will have been chosen and fitted for you based on your body measurements and condition. Some people might consider the money spent renting a wheelchair a waste if it could have been spent invested in their own wheelchair instead. 

If the wheelchair is rented, the user may be required to cover any damage caused to the wheelchair. However, if the user owns the wheelchair then there are no consequences for any damage caused. If the user no longer needs the wheelchair, or they change their mind, they can result, donate, or give the wheelchair to someone else. 

Where can you rent a wheelchair?

You can contact your local wheelchair supplier, and they will direct you to where you can rent a KARMA wheelchair. If you are not sure which wheelchair to choose, you can contact your local KARMA wheelchair dealer or contact us here. 

KARMA’s Ergo Lite 2 is available with small or large rear wheels.

The role of the rear wheel is to offer stability to the wheelchair, and also the ability for the user to self propel. In order to be able to manually self propel, the user must choose the large rear wheels. This offers the user independence as they don’t need to rely on another person to get around. Typically, more active wheelchair users will opt for the larger rear wheels. 

If the user has someone, for example a caregiver or family, who is going to push the wheelchair from behind all the time, then a smaller rear wheel is more suitable. Typically, elderly users will opt for a wheelchair with a smaller rear wheels as it makes the wheelchair more lightweight and ideal for day trips. 

+ Advantages of a large rear wheels

The user can propel the wheelchair themselves.

Large rear wheels have a larger surface area, so it’s easier to navigate rough terrain e.g., grass or uneven road.

The rear wheel can be detached for convenient transportation and storage

— Weaknesses of a large rear wheel

Heavier wheelchair, which means more effort is required to lift it

Requires more storage space

+ Advantages of a small rear wheels

Ideal for elderly caregivers because of the lighter weight

Easier to navigate in small spaces; apartment buildings, elevators, etc.

Smaller storage space needed

-Weaknesses of a small rear wheel

The user cannot propel themselves

Small wheels are not suitable for rougher terrain

A good example of a wheelchair that has the option of both small or large rear wheels is the Ergo Lite 2. If the user has someone who is going to push them when they are in the wheelchair, then the smaller rear wheels make for easier lifting and convenient storage. If the user is looking for more independence with the benefit of an ultra lightweight wheelchair, then the larger rear wheels are the ideal choice. Both options are still equipped with a foldable frame for handy portability. 

We’re here to help

If after reading this blog you’re still not sure which rear wheel wheelchair is the best for you, you can contact KARMA or your nearest wheelchair dealer today!