WHEELCHAIRS REIMBURSEMENT

 

Who needs wheelchairs?

Moving around a room, from one place to another, to the kitchen, bathroom, or treatment room is unavoidable. For a person who has lost mobility, this movement is an extremely difficult process, as it is for those who must care for them. Wheelchairs that are comfortable, sturdy, and maneuverable increase the patient’s independence and enable them to reach necessary locations, while reducing the physical strain on caregivers and medical staff. Standard wheelchairs can be designed for independent use or with the assistance of a caregiver or staff. Electric wheelchairs offer even greater convenience, as they require no physical effort from either the patient or caregivers; the patient can independently cover much greater distances without outside assistance.

Wheelchairs enable people who have lost their mobility to move around. They are widely used in both medical facilities and at home. Most models feature comfortable footrests, are maneuverable, easy to control, and have an aesthetic design.

 

What types of wheelchairs are available?

Wheelchairs come in mechanical, active, and electric types. Everyone can choose a wheelchair based on their needs and capabilities.

Mechanical wheelchairs:

These are manually pushed wheelchairs designed for people who, due to their health condition, cannot walk or have very limited mobility.

Main components:

• Frame – can be foldable (easier to transport) or rigid (sturdier, sportier).
• Wheels:

Rear – larger, often with handles designed for independent movement.

Front – smaller, swivel, allowing for maneuverability.

• Brakes – usually manual, secure the wheelchair when stationary.
• Seat and backrest – may be padded, sometimes adjustable.
• Footrests – adjustable or removable for ease of sitting down or standing up.
• Armrests – on some models, they can be raised or removed.

 

Types of manual wheelchairs:

1. Standard (universal)

• Designed for everyday use. Usually have a steel frame. Quite heavy but durable.

2. Light alloy / Aluminum

• Lighter than standard models (~10–15 kg).
• Easier to maneuver, better for travel or more active users.

3. Sports

• Extremely lightweight with a rigid frame.
• Designed for active people or athletes.
• Excellent maneuverability.

4. Transport wheelchairs

• Small rear wheels—designed to be pushed by another person.
• Lightweight, but not intended for independent mobility.

 

Selection criteria:

• User’s physical condition – whether they will be able to move independently or will need an attendant.
• Duration of use – short-term or long-term use.
• Weight and size – must match the user’s body dimensions and weight.
• Environment – whether it will be used more often indoors or outdoors.
• Transportation needs – whether the wheelchair needs to be foldable.
• Adjustable features – for comfort and ergonomics (footrests, backrest, seat height).

 

Advantages:

• Independence – allows for independent movement whenever possible.
• Convenience – easy to use, especially indoors.
• Lower cost than electric wheelchairs.
• Ease of maintenance – no batteries or complex mechanisms.

 

Disadvantages:

• Requires physical strength, so it is not suitable for everyone.
• Not as fast or versatile as an electric wheelchair.
• In some models, comfort is limited for prolonged use

 

Electric wheelchairs:

An electric wheelchair, also known as a motorized wheelchair, is designed for people who, due to limited mobility, cannot use a manual wheelchair or desire greater convenience. The electric motor allows for movement without physical effort, and everything can be controlled via a remote or other devices.

Main components:

• Frame – often made of aluminum or steel to ensure strength while reducing weight.
• Motor – usually mounted on the rear wheels, providing propulsion.
• Battery – usually lithium-ion or lead-acid. Each model has a different battery capacity, so the distance traveled depends on the battery charge.
• Control panel – a handheld device that allows you to control speed, direction, braking, and in some cases even program additional functions (e.g., inclines, seat position, etc.).
• Wheels:

Rear wheels – often larger, designed for stability and smooth movement.

Front wheels – may be smaller but ensure good maneuverability.

• Seat and backrest – often adjustable, providing comfort for extended use.

 

Types of electric wheelchairs:

1. Standard electric wheelchairs

• Designed for everyday use.
• Can handle moderate weights (~20–30 kg).
• Well-suited for both outdoor and indoor use.

2. Sports electric wheelchairs

• Lighter and more maneuverable.
• Designed for active people who want to move faster or participate in sporting events.

3. Foldable electric wheelchairs

• Designed for people who travel or frequently transport their wheelchair.
• Easily foldable and can be placed in a vehicle.
• They are usually lighter, but may have a smaller battery capacity.

4. All-terrain (off-road)

• Designed for use not only on flat surfaces, but also on uneven or hilly terrain.
• They have larger wheels and better suspension.

 

Selection criteria:

• Intended use – for daily needs, travel, or sports.
• Range – depends on battery capacity (most electric wheelchairs travel 15 to 40 km on a full charge).
• Maneuverability – some models are better suited for indoor use, others for outdoor use.
• Battery charging time and capacity – it’s important to know how quickly the wheelchair can be charged and how long it will run on a single charge.
• Weight and compactness – especially if you plan to transport the wheelchair in a car.
• Adjustable features – some models allow you to adjust the seat angle, backrest height, and even the footrest.

 

Advantages:

• Self-reliance – allows you to move without physical effort, ideal for those with limited mobility.
• Longer range – covers a greater distance than a manual wheelchair.
• Comfort – reduces fatigue, making them suitable for long trips.
• Speed – can reach higher speeds than manual wheelchairs, typically up to 6–10 km/h.
• Suitable for various environments – some models are designed for use both in the city and on uneven surfaces.

 

Disadvantages:

• Heavy weight – often heavier than manual wheelchairs (20–40 kg), which can make transportation difficult.
• Price – more expensive than manual wheelchairs.
• Dependent on the battery – if the battery runs out, the wheelchair becomes immobile.
• Maintenance – requires more maintenance due to electrical systems and batteries.
• Dependent on charging – requires charging, and some models may not operate for extended periods without charging.

 

In our store, you can choose from products by different manufacturers with various features based on your needs and budget.

You have the option to purchase a wheelchair with compensation. The purchase of a wheelchair is subsidized by: TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE CENTER.

You can read more about subsidies for electric and manual wheelchairs here: https://www.rehastar.com/kompensavimo-tvarka

 

Reimbursement for mechanical wheelchairs: https://tppc.lrv.lt/lt/apie-priemones/technines-pagalbos-priemoniu-katalogas/elektra-varomos-judejimo-technines-pagalbos-priemones/

Reimbursement for electric wheelchairs: https://tppc.lrv.lt/lt/apie-priemones/technines-pagalbos-priemoniu-katalogas/mechaniniai-vezimeliai/