Wheelchair with adjustable height handle(s)

[Busy mum]

Hi, my son is an occasional use wheelchair user. I have an off road 3 wheeler buggy which is great for somethings but too long to take around shops (used my wheelchair voucher to get this). I still need something compact and easy to manoevre with adjustable height carers handle - either one central one or two but that are adjustable as I am tall and have back problems. My son has no specific postural requirements, he just gets tired if we are out for long periods of time or decides he won't cooperate. He is unlikely to self propel due to level of learning difficulties but I want big back wheels as I've read this makes life much easier. He is a very slim, tall 13yrs. It seems to be more my needs that need to be factored in ie I'm lifting it in and out of the car, pushing etc! I will be funding this myself with the help of charity I hope. Can anyone suggest some for me to look at?

[garylevans]

Hi Busy Mum. You could always get in touch with us here at DEMAND. We're a charity that specialises in designing and making bespoke equipment for people with mobility challenges (as well as helping people source the right equipment). We may be able to help. www.demand.org.uk or call us (northern team on 01484 666261 or southern team on 01923 681800) to speak to one of the designers.

[JackCorpe]

Hi Busy Mum
I’m currently enrolled on a product design degree, and in this final year I have decided to create a product that improves the lives of disabled people. It would be very valuable if you could share with me some more details about the problems or logistical issues that you and your son encounter whilst using the wheelchair. Im specifically interested in the problems that arrise when you are trying to shop with the wheelchair. Any instances where you felt: let down by the effectiveness of any disabled products; dissatisfied with facilities provided by supermarkets; a product improved your standard of living. Any comment or idea you have will really appreciated and will help to start developing a concept.
Thank you

[Trigger]

Have you had an NHS assessment? Assuming you are in the UK, you should be able to get a referral and assessment for suitable wheelchair and not have to pay for it. Apologies if you know this already.

[Trigger]

Jack, as I said in another thread, I think you should post this in a thread of it's own, but meanwhile, I would suggest you are more specific - a brief questionnaire perhaps, catergories such as shopping, personal care, social activites etc - the things you are picking up on by reading this forum, and sub categories with some bullet point questions. Last year I was involved with a group of engineering students who were designing a product for the disabilty aids market. They did a survey and some case studies to establish what kind of interest there would be.

[Trigger]

Jack - I think something like this would help your studies. http://www.bespoken.me/