Disability Chairs

The features to look for in a disability chair vary depending on the type of chair you need. Whether it is a traditional wheelchair or ergonomic office chair, a few basic features are essential for determining the best fit.

The first of these is a comfortable seat width. Look for the size that isn't too snug but also isn’t loose enough that you slide around. Chair sizes usually range between 16” to 20” overall. The more compact the size, the easier the chair is to maneuver and transport, so if you are looking for a collapsible product that can fit into the truck of your car, go with a smaller design.

To allow for various positioning, a tilt chair is most beneficial. Hydraulic tilt mechanisms typically offer the smoothest lifting action and have a higher weight capacity than other lift types. For additional support and overall comfort, look for sturdy arm and footrest features.

Wheels are another critical feature of many disability chair models. They need to be made to handle different surfaces, especially if you plan to use your chair in different locations. Pneumatic tires offer the best all-terrain navigation; however, large multidirectional casters are a better choice for indoor use. A self-propelled disability chair should feature large rear wheels with protective bars to prevent fingers from getting caught.

When considering disability chairs, you want to select sitting options for the elderly people you have in your life that are sturdy, supportive, and comfortable. We’ve found that some of the best chairs for elderly persons and people with disabilities have adjustable arm and back rests, wheels on their bases for easy maneuverability, and (in some cases) powered options to make getting up and down from a seated position as easy as possible. When you’re selecting a chair that will be a part of your support plan for the people in your life, consider their specific condition when selecting features for their chairs.

When searching for the perfect material for disability chairs, you have to think about functionality, practicality, durability, and comfort. Many materials check all these boxes, such as leather, vinyl, and wool.

Leather is one of the most durable upholstery materials because it is a naturally tough fabric. It is adaptable for everyday use and is resilient against tears, punctures, and scratches that other materials may not be able to withstand. It is also a waterproof material, making it easier to clean with a cloth if spills or staining occur. Vinyl is also very similar to leather in that it is durable, comfortable, and waterproof.

Nylon is another material suitable for disability chairs because it is easy to keep clean and wash. The material can withstand water very well, and it can be cleaned with any water-based cleaning product. The fibers in nylon are also very strong and are abrasion and elastic resistant, making the material extremely durable.