How to fold manual and electric wheelchairs?

Whether for transport or storage, knowing how to fold a wheelchair is an important skill. VOCIC will walk you through a comprehensive guide on how to fold both manual and power wheelchairs correctly and safely. We'll explore simple, step-by-step techniques to make wheelchair use easier and more convenient.

These practices are essential for wheelchair users, caregivers, or anyone involved in rehabilitation. Let's explore the efficient folding methods that can facilitate your wheelchair use.

Difference between a manual and an electric wheelchair

A deeper understanding of the differences between manual and electric wheelchairs is particularly helpful in understanding the folding mechanisms and design complexity.

Manual wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs are typically lightweight (15-50 pounds) and designed for easy maneuverability and transport. Frames are usually made of aluminum, titanium, or steel, which affects the overall weight and durability of the wheelchair. Most manual wheelchairs feature a cross-brace design that allows the user or caregiver to fold the wheelchair by pulling up on the seat or pushing down on the seat rails.

This action folds the wheelchair into a narrow profile, making it easy to store in the trunk of a car or other tight spaces. The ease of folding increases the portability of the wheelchair, making manual chairs a preferred option for users with an active lifestyle.

Electric wheelchairs

These chairs embody advanced engineering to accommodate the motor and battery required for operation. Due to their complexity, electric wheelchairs tend to be heavier and bulkier, weighing 50-250 pounds, which is significantly more than their manual counterparts.

The folding mechanism on electric wheelchairs, if present, is often more sophisticated and often requires several steps such as disassembling parts like the joystick, backrest or battery pack before the frame can be folded. This process is not as simple and requires more time and effort compared to folding a manual wheelchair.

In addition, the compactness achieved after folding an electric wheelchair may not be as pronounced due to the bulky components. However, some modern electric wheelchairs are designed with portability in mind and use lightweight materials and optimized folding processes that are somewhat similar to the efficiency of manual wheelchairs.

How to fold a manual wheelchair?

Properly folding a manual wheelchair is an essential skill to make it easily transportable and storable. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to fold a manual wheelchair:

1. Stabilize the wheelchair: To prevent the wheelchair from moving during folding, always apply the brakes first. This will lock the wheels and make the folding process safer and easier.
2. Prepare the footrests: This step varies depending on the wheelchair model. If the footrests are removable, remove them to make folding easier. If the footrests are not removable, make sure they are folded up or swung to the side.
3. Folding the chair: Stand in front of the wheelchair. Grab the front and back of the seat, then lift or push depending on the model. This action brings the sides of the wheelchair together and begins the folding process.
4. Securing the Folding Process: Make sure the wheelchair stays in the folded state and ensure it is locked or secured. This will prevent it from unfolding unexpectedly during transport or storage.

Note: Although this guide describes the general process, there may be nuances depending on the model. Always read the owner's manual for your manual wheelchair for precise instructions.

How to fold an electric wheelchair?

Folding an electric wheelchair requires a slightly different approach compared to a manual wheelchair due to its motor, battery and other electrical components. Here is a simplified guide on how to fold an electric wheelchair safely and efficiently:

1. Turning off: Start by turning off the wheelchair to prevent accidental activation of the controls during folding.
2. Disconnect power: If possible, disconnect or turn off the battery. This step is important for safety and to avoid electrical problems when handling the chair.
3. Prepare the wheelchair: Depending on the model, you may need to remove the joystick or control panel, or at least make sure it is properly secured and will not be damaged. For wheelchairs with removable batteries, remove them to reduce weight and make the chair easier to handle.
4. Folding the backrest down: Many electric wheelchairs have a feature that allows the backrest to fold down onto the seat. If your wheelchair allows this, gently push the backrest down until it lies flat over the seat cushion.
5. Folding the frame: Find the folding mechanism, which is usually a lever or button designed specifically for this purpose. Use it to initiate folding, which typically involves bringing the sides of the wheelchair together, similar to a manual chair. Some models fold differently, so it's important to know the method for your specific wheelchair.
6. Secure everything: After the wheelchair is folded, make sure it remains safely in this compact state. Look for loose components that need to be secured or removed for transport.
7. Transport and storage: Now that the wheelchair is in a more manageable shape, you can load it into a vehicle or take it to a storage area. Remember that even folded electric wheelchairs can be heavy. Be careful and use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.

If you need visual help with this process, you can watch a video on how to fold a wheelchair.

Note: Electric wheelchair models vary greatly in their design and folding mechanisms. Always consult your specific wheelchair owner's manual for detailed, model-specific instructions for a safe and efficient folding process.

How do you unfold a wheelchair after folding it?

To unfold a wheelchair after folding, follow these simple steps:

For manual wheelchairs:

1. Prepare the area: Make sure you have enough space around you to safely unfold the wheelchair without hitting any obstructions. Once unfolded, it is important to prevent the wheelchair from hitting anything or anyone.
2. Stabilize the wheelchair: Grip the sides of the wheelchair - one hand should be near the front edge of the seat and the other near the back. This positioning will help you maintain control while you unfold the chair.
3. To unfold: Gently pull the seat sections (front and back) apart. As you do this, you will notice the wheelchair begin to spread out and take shape. It helps to do this with a smooth, calm motion to avoid sudden jerking movements that could cause the wheelchair to pop open too quickly.
4. Secure the frame: Once the wheelchair is fully opened, gently press down on the seat to ensure the frame is securely locked into place. This step is critical to the safety and stability of the wheelchair.
5. Attaching the footrests: If you removed the footrests when folding the wheelchair, now is the time to reattach them. Make sure they are securely fastened and adjusted to the user's comfort level.
6. Final check: Check the wheelchair to make sure everything is OK. Check that the brakes are working properly, the seat is firm and secure and there are no loose parts. This ensures that the wheelchair is safe for the user.

For electric wheelchairs:

1. Prepare the area: Make sure you have enough space around you to safely unfold the wheelchair without encountering any obstructions. Also make sure any loose items or accessories are removed to avoid potential damage.
2. Safety checks: If you have removed or loosened any parts, such as the battery compartment, joystick or backrest, replace them in their correct position and make sure they are firmly in place.
3. Unfolding: Electric wheelchairs may require batteries to be inserted or a special lever to be activated to release the folding mechanism. Gently pull the seat sections (front and back) apart, similar to a manual wheelchair. As you do this, you will notice the wheelchair begin to spread out and take shape.
4. Secure the frame: Make sure the frame is properly locked into place and that the wheelchair is stable. Some electric wheelchairs may have additional safety mechanisms that need to be verified.
5. Security: Make sure the brakes work, the seat is secure and there are no loose parts. Check the condition of the wheels and make sure everything is properly aligned.

Safety measures when folding wheelchairs

Regardless of whether you are folding a manual or electric wheelchair, there are some safety precautions to keep in mind:

1. Read the manual: Before folding the wheelchair, always read the manual for specific instructions and warnings for your wheelchair model.
2. Regular maintenance: Keep the wheelchair in good condition by performing regular maintenance. Check the parts, screws and connections to make sure they are tight and in good working order.
3. Pay attention to your posture: avoid sudden movements or lifting heavy loads that could strain your back. Use the correct lifting technique to avoid injury.
4. Protect the electronics: If it is an electric wheelchair, make sure that electronic components such as the joystick or batteries are safe and not damaged. Protect these components from moisture and impact.
5. Check safety locks: For electric wheelchairs that have an automatic or semi-automatic folding mechanism, you should check the safety locks regularly to ensure that the wheelchair does not fold accidentally during use.

Summary

Knowing how to fold a wheelchair correctly can save time and space while ensuring the safety and longevity of the wheelchair. While manual wheelchairs are often easier to fold, electric models require additional steps and precautions. Regardless of the type, it is always important to consult the manufacturer's manual and exercise caution to best protect the wheelchair and its users.

Related reading: How to use a wheelchair?