The Difference Between Transport Chair vs Wheelchair Explained

Looking into mobility aids for a parent or elderly person?

One of the first things you’ll want to consider is the benefits of a transport chair vs a wheelchair.

Both types of chair can assist with mobility, but they differ significantly in terms of size, weight, and operation. Let’s take a look at your options.

What Is a Wheelchair and How Can It Benefit Seniors?

Impaired mobility affects a large proportion of the senior population. Whether a result of age, illness, or physical deterioration, losing the ability to walk can severely hinder one’s quality of life.

A wheelchair, however, can restore personal freedom and a sense of dignity.

A standard wheelchair is a seat supported by two large back wheels fitted with rotating hand rims that allow the user to move the chair independently. The two smaller front wheels (castors) have a revolving mechanism that allows the chair to swivel. A wheelchair also features brakes, footrests, and a cushioned seat.

Wheelchairs allow seniors to move around freely without the need for assistance, enhancing personal independence and reducing their dependency on others. A wheelchair can also support the body comfortably and relieve pain associated with movement.

The Types of Wheelchairs for Elderly People

Wheelchairs come in a vast range of sizes, weights, and styles, and can be powered by hand (manual) or a motor (electric). When choosing a wheelchair for seniors, it pays to consider how and where the chair will be used.

Types of wheelchairs include:

• Lightweight wheelchair models that can be easily transported.
• Standard wheelchairs for those who have the upper body strength to self-propel.
• Heavy-duty wheelchairs with larger frames to support heavier users (over 300 lbs)
• Tilted/recliner wheelchairs for those who require full-body support, shock absorption, and padding.
• Electric wheelchairs for those who require independence but lack upper-body strength to self-propel. An electric wheelchair is powered by a motor and operated by the user with a joystick or handle.

The Benefits of Using a Wheelchair by Seniors

For seniors who struggle with getting around, a wheelchair can provide many benefits.

Mobility

The freedom to live and move about independently without relying on family or a caregiver.

Physical health

Takes the weight off joints and bones, which can help reduce further physical decline as well as the development of pressure sores or deformities. A wheelchair also supports the spine, helping to maintain posture and reducing back and/or neck pain.

Exercise

Using the upper body improves muscle tone, helping to prevent physical deterioration due to inactivity.

Safety

Reduces the risk of falling in the home or outdoors, which provides peace of mind to both the user and his or her loved ones.

Social freedom

Wheelchair users can socialize, access services they may need, carry out daily chores, attend events, and enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle.

Does My Parent Need a Wheelchair?

As parents age, their mobility may be affected by any number of ailments: physical impairments, pain, arthritis, obesity, strength or balance issues, chronic diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, and even cognitive disorders such as dementia.

For a parent who can still use their upper body, a wheelchair can be a fantastic option. But if they are bedridden or unable to self-propel, you’ll need to think about a transfer chair vs wheelchair.

What Is a Transport Chair?

Although a transport looks similar to a wheelchair, it has some key differences.

To start with, a transport chair is operated by a caregiver, not the user. These chairs are a much simpler design and can be folded down for easy storage or transportation.

What Is a Transport Chair Used for?

Transport chairs can be used as mobility aids in the home, in hospitals, or in retirement homes. They can be a lifting device for transferring patients from a bed to a wheelchair, between wards, or to the bathroom. They may also be useful for areas of confined space, such as through narrow doorways.

Compact and lightweight, transport chairs are designed to be portable. They must be pushed from behind by a caregiver or family member; the person being moved cannot operate the chair themselves.

Does My Parent Need a Transport Chair?

A transport chair is great for a parent who can still walk and stand without assistance, but may need to rest after a period of time. The chair can be stored in the home or in a car and taken out when needed. This allows an elderly person to join in on social occasions without worrying about tiring.

How to Transfer Elderly from Bed to Chair

Step 1: Sitting up.

1. Position the wheelchair close to the bed and lock the wheels into place.
2. Raise the armrest nearest to the bed, and move both leg rests outwards.
3. Help the patient sit up in bed, then ease him or her onto their side so they are facing the wheelchair.
4. To lift the patient, place your arm under their neck and use your hand to support their shoulder blade. Slide your other hand under their knees.
5. Carefully move the patient's legs over the edge of the bed so the patient is sitting up.

Step 2. Stand the patient up

1. Ensure the patient is wearing shoes or non-slip socks.
2. Help them into a standing position by placing your arms around his or her chest and clasping your hands tightly behind their back.
3. Carefully stand the patient up by leaning back and supporting their weight with yours.

Step 3. Into the chair

1. Gently guide the patient towards the chair while keeping your arms around their chest.
2. Bend your knees and lower the patient into the wheelchair seat.
3. Move the footrests and armrests back into place and ensure the patient is sitting comfortably.

Transport Chair vs Wheelchair - Which Vehicle to Choose?

Here the deciding factor will usually come down to the individual’s level of motor function.

A wheelchair is best for someone who has functional use of their arms and upper body, and can operate the chair independently by moving the wheel rims.

A transport chair is more suited to someone who lacks upper body strength and cannot move a manual wheelchair on their own. It may also be a helpful option for someone who can walk but needs mobility assistance at times - provided they have someone to push the chair.

Conclusion

The declining health of an older person is never easy to deal with, but assisting with their day-to-day mobility can make an enormous difference to their life - and yours.

Understanding the benefits of a transport chair vs a wheelchair will help you make the right choice. A wheelchair can provide greater freedom but is more suited to those with the physical ability to use it. If an electric wheelchair isn’t an option, a transport chair may be your best bet. Good luck!