Children’s Power Wheelchairs

It is probably even more important for kids than for adults that a wheelchair represents their freedom and independence. Making sure that children have a sense of autonomy of movement in a chair that is comfortable and supportive is essential both for their physical development and their emotional well-being.

Check out our Edge 3 power chair for children

Choosing a children’s power wheelchair is an important decision for the entire family, and there are several factors you need to consider when weighing up your options. Here at Quantum, we have highlighted the key features to must consider when comparing the different power wheelchairs for children.

Does Your Power Chair for Children Have Room for Growth?

There is no denying that children have a habit of growing! Before you know it, they have outgrown their specially adapted stroller and are straining to get about under their own steam.

Power wheelchairs for children need to have inbuilt adjustability that allows it to be extended in line with the child’s growth. Giving your child the best support while going through growth spurts in a power wheelchair is important, from widening the seat by several centimetres over time to installing a universal headrest that can adapt to your child's height.

Power Wheelchairs for Children – Manoeuvred by Parents and Carers

The power chair still needs to be convenient for adults. Despite the child’s growing independence, there are many times that an adult is going to need to step in and take over. As such, the children’s power wheelchair needs to be foldable to a size that can fit into the boot of a car.

You also need to protect the carers’ posture. Being on-hand to support and help the child requires lifting and bending that can cause discomfort and possible injury to the adult. Having a seat lift as part of the overall power chair design enables you to elevate the height of the seat to bring the child to your level for easier attendance.

Guaranteeing Safety and Stability

Just in case a child decides that the garden is a Formula 1 racetrack, you need to have the confidence that a power chair for children is built with stability and safety in mind. Regardless of the ground surface, the drive wheels require more traction than typical. Anti-pitch technology needs to be incorporated so that the child is not thrown forward when coming to a sudden stop. Finally, a good suspension will stop your child shaking about all over the place, even on the roughest of terrains.