If it is to be used just to go out I recommend a "companion" wheelchair. The handles will be higher for the person that is pushing it and the brakes are controlled by the caregiver. Some models even have the back fold down. A regular, lightweight wheelchair would allow your Mom to push herself and lock/unlock her own brakes, but it will be heavier. A companion wheelchair has 4 small wheels whereas a regular, lightweight wheelchair has small wheels in the front and large in the back. The company we used the most was Drive .
You can find a transport wheelchair, that can collapse and be put into the car trunk, at a Medical Supply store. Medicare doesn't pay for them. They are not as comfortable as a regular wheelchair, but you can add a bit of cushion, but they are extremely useful. Probably weigh about 30 lbs or so.
I bought a transport chair for my mother who is in her in her 90's now. But, we only use it when we leave the house because she cannot navigate it on her own and I need to push it. It is light weight and fits easily in my small hatchback with seats still up. She uses a walker in our home. If you just need transportation outside of the home, I suggest a transport chair rather than a wheel chair.
Agree with other answers. You want a transport chair. When you get one, also buy a cushioned seat for it. Very lightweight chair, easy to maneuver to dr visits, and the cushion makes it much more comfortable.
They aren't that expensive - a little over a hundred online and at Walmart or drug stores. However, if you check estates sales in your area (estatesales.net, enter your zip code) they are commonly available for under $50.
I think this is the one others have posted: on Amazon, search for Medline ultra lite transport. The red one is about $129 and the black is $175. The description says under 15 pounds, including wheels.
This chair was the lightest we found. My SIL and I actually compared the weight, unscientifically. We wanted something that we could pick up and could fit in the trunk of a mid size car without strain or scratching the back bumper of the car or taking up time. All the other transport chairs seemed heavier and took up more space. My Mom is petite, under 5 feet.
I can now store and remove the folded wheelchair into the car with one hand, however 2 hands are a little safer. No need to disassemble or reassemble to use it. I have a Honda HRV and it fits in the back area as well as the back seat area with the back seat folded up all the way.
We have had the transport chair since 2019. The wheels are pretty worn, I’ve had to get a set of replacement pins and I am thinking of getting replacement footrests. They had a one year warranty which they honored. The replacement parts are pricey, however the wheelchair frame and seat is still solid. We have used it almost everyday since we got it, and for the last year, everyday whenever my Mom is awake.
Because of its size, she is able to get it close to the toilet in her bathroom.
I really like this company as they have excellent product videos (on-line, google). I purchased their wheelchair (and accessories-important) for my petite client from them. Excellent quality and excellent customer service. Was so easy to assemble - pop the wheels in and unfold the chair. Very easy.
Do clarify if this is a transport chair or a wheelchair. Very important differences.
The lightest wheelchair in the world! It's so light, anyone can lift this chair (optional) Pop-off wheels for storage Seat and back cushions for comfort
Description
At only 13.5 lbs., the Feather Chair (Formally known as Featherweight Wheelchair®) is the lightest wheelchairs on the planet. Taking advantage of brand-new materials, the Featherweight sets a new standard. Practically everyone can lift this wheelchair into your car, truck or SUV. and is super easy to propel and push.
Transporting the Feather Chair could not be easier. The chair folds down into a compact package. First, fold down the backrest and then pull up on the middle of the seat. Optional, quick-release wheels allow a caregiver to remove the larger, back wheels with the push of the button. Once you arrive at your destination, unfolding and attaching the wheels takes less than a minute. Standard features include wheel locks - easily accessible by the seated user - at the front of the frame. Wheel locks prevent the wheelchair from rolling forward or backward. For the caregiver, there is an integrated braking system, operated by bicycle style locking brake levers located at the push handles. These handbrakes provide the caregiver control, security, and convenience when descending or pausing on a slope.
Accessorize your Feather Chair with three colorful overlay cushions and a convenient carry bag for travel.
Note: 13.5 lbs. is frame only. Overall weight, with wheels, is 19 lbs.
Limited Warranty
The Featherweight comes with a limited warranty and the following coverage: Frame: We warranty the frame of the mobility chair under normal use for a period of 1 Year (12 months). We will at our sole discretion, repair, replace, any warrantable frame that fails within the warranty period. Wearable Parts: 6 months on all wearable parts including wheels, upholstery, brakes, footrest.
Features
At 13.5 lbs this is the lightest wheelchair in the world Folds tightly for easy travel Full length fix armrests & Push to lock brakes Carry handles & Wheel locks One-button, quick release rear wheels Wheel material - Featherweight Solid, Polyurethane Removable & Swing Away Elevating Legrest pops in at the top and locks with the black plastic knob below. Red, Grey and Blue seat overlay options available Optional carry bag
Call them to discuss your needs. You will not be disappointed with this company. Gena / Touch Matters
I just bought my mom the same transport chair on Amazon. It is very light weight. We use it for outings to restraunts, Dr. Appointments, etc. I wouldn't want her to be in it long term, but it sure works for those trips out. I bought a gel cushion for the seat as well for more comfort.
Good morning, I use for my husband the Medline Lightweight Transport chair. It weighs 22lbs. I love it. It folds, has brakes and the brakes can lock and easy to travel with. I actually have two. They run about 160 dollars. I like it because the rear wheels are 12 inches and make it easier on uneven surfaces. Initially I used a real wheelchair that was killing my back to just lift it in and out of the car. This transport chair saved my back. I also bought a little cushion for the seat but you may not need that.
My dad is 210# and we use the $200 wheelchair from Walgreens to use at the mall, events etc. I would expect the transporter (less expensive) would work. What about a kids size or teen?
the most important feature you should look at is the handles. Make sure the position is tight so you can navigate/push with ease and not hurt your back.
i use transport chair. the brakes are where i can reach them. in that case i self propell. sometimes i will self propell to a walker and am able to transfer.
Seems a transport chair is your best bet. I had one for my mom and it was lightweight and easy to put in my small SUV. I was 70 at the time and managed it with little effort. Good luck!
Ask for a referral to an Occupational Therapist and/or Physical Therapist who can evaluate her and recommend the most appropriate choice for her. With a prescription Medicare may pay but usually will not pay for a second one if you are not happy with the first one.
Agree! My mom was tiny..just a little over 100 pounds soaking wet. The transport chair saved me so much time. I needed something light weight, that I could easily lift into the car. It rolls over uneven ground relatively well. A life saver.
Mom uses a Drive roll stir walker (17.5 lbs). A bit expensive but the best walker ever ( sturdy, great mobility on all surfaces, narrow so it can pass through almost doorways )
I got a transport chair instead of a wheelchair for my mom. She is 92 and cannot manage a wheelchair by herself. It made it a lot easier on me to have this instead of a wheelchair.
Transport chairs are lighter than the ones with the big wheel but they are not lightweight. I worked for a VNA with a loan closet. I am 5 ft tall. I have handled both types of wheelchairs. I had to ask that when picking up someone need to come with the person. I was 62 at the time. If it was an SUV, truck or Van I may be able to lift and put in in one movement but not if I had to place it in a truck.
It all depends on how your going to use it. If an occasional outing, I would not get a reg transport. If using all the time I may. If you go with reg one the have then where the back folds down. One that the sides lifts up for easy transfer. Usually the foot rests come off so easier to get into a vehicle. Medicare will pay if an order from the doctor.
With Moms weight, I think a light one would work. My Uncle weighted maybe 180lbs if that much and his caretaker took him everywhere in a lightweight one.
A transport chair is very light weight and easy to put in your car. And most insurances will cover the cost 100%, although they're not all that expensive.
Transfer chair is the lightest weight one and easiest to figure out. I has four small wheels and feet rests. Small for the trunk of your car or even the back seat.
There are many of them to choose from, my advice is to think about is where you will be using it. Many of the more basic transport chairs I've seen seem to be designed for indoor use only with 4 tiny wheels, sturdier wheels and a larger pair on the back can better handle uneven sidewalks, transitions at entryways and snow (if applicable). Also consider the placement of the brakes and ease of use, as well as comfort level if the chair is going to be used for longer than the time it takes to transfer to something else.
The lightest I found comes from Walgreens. They come in colors. If you can hit a sale they can be just over $100. I say WG because thats where I have seen them. Other pharmacies my have the same thing. These are transporters meaning someone has to push.
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They aren't that expensive - a little over a hundred online and at Walmart or drug stores. However, if you check estates sales in your area (estatesales.net, enter your zip code) they are commonly available for under $50.
This chair was the lightest we found. My SIL and I actually compared the weight, unscientifically. We wanted something that we could pick up and could fit in the trunk of a mid size car without strain or scratching the back bumper of the car or taking up time. All the other transport chairs seemed heavier and took up more space. My Mom is petite, under 5 feet.
I can now store and remove the folded wheelchair into the car with one hand, however 2 hands are a little safer. No need to disassemble or reassemble to use it. I have a Honda HRV and it fits in the back area as well as the back seat area with the back seat folded up all the way.
We have had the transport chair since 2019. The wheels are pretty worn, I’ve had to get a set of replacement pins and I am thinking of getting replacement footrests. They had a one year warranty which they honored. The replacement parts are pricey, however the wheelchair frame and seat is still solid. We have used it almost everyday since we got it, and for the last year, everyday whenever my Mom is awake.
Because of its size, she is able to get it close to the toilet in her bathroom.
I highly recommend it.
I really like this company as they have excellent product videos (on-line, google).
I purchased their wheelchair (and accessories-important) for my petite client from them. Excellent quality and excellent customer service. Was so easy to assemble - pop the wheels in and unfold the chair. Very easy.
Do clarify if this is a transport chair or a wheelchair. Very important differences.
Below is their ad:
https://www.1800wheelchair.com/product/featherweight-wheelchair?gclid=CjwKCAiAleOeBhBdEiwAfgmXf1gqchAlxAzyrhCl5CbfS7_dlfNDJXQ1_zOUMDNmohJ-Wn6AXMM2xxoCqzMQAvD_BwE
The lightest wheelchair in the world!
It's so light, anyone can lift this chair
(optional) Pop-off wheels for storage
Seat and back cushions for comfort
Description
At only 13.5 lbs., the Feather Chair (Formally known as Featherweight Wheelchair®) is the lightest wheelchairs on the planet. Taking advantage of brand-new materials, the Featherweight sets a new standard. Practically everyone can lift this wheelchair into your car, truck or SUV. and is super easy to propel and push.
Transporting the Feather Chair could not be easier. The chair folds down into a compact package. First, fold down the backrest and then pull up on the middle of the seat. Optional, quick-release wheels allow a caregiver to remove the larger, back wheels with the push of the button. Once you arrive at your destination, unfolding and attaching the wheels takes less than a minute.
Standard features include wheel locks - easily accessible by the seated user - at the front of the frame. Wheel locks prevent the wheelchair from rolling forward or backward. For the caregiver, there is an integrated braking system, operated by bicycle style locking brake levers located at the push handles. These handbrakes provide the caregiver control, security, and convenience when descending or pausing on a slope.
Accessorize your Feather Chair with three colorful overlay cushions and a convenient carry bag for travel.
Note: 13.5 lbs. is frame only. Overall weight, with wheels, is 19 lbs.
Limited Warranty
The Featherweight comes with a limited warranty and the following coverage:
Frame: We warranty the frame of the mobility chair under normal use for a period of 1 Year (12 months). We will at our sole discretion, repair, replace, any warrantable frame that fails within the warranty period.
Wearable Parts: 6 months on all wearable parts including wheels, upholstery, brakes, footrest.
Features
At 13.5 lbs this is the lightest wheelchair in the world
Folds tightly for easy travel
Full length fix armrests & Push to lock brakes
Carry handles & Wheel locks
One-button, quick release rear wheels
Wheel material - Featherweight Solid, Polyurethane
Removable & Swing Away Elevating Legrest pops in at the top and locks with the black plastic knob below.
Red, Grey and Blue seat overlay options available
Optional carry bag
Call them to discuss your needs. You will not be disappointed with this company. Gena / Touch Matters
I wouldn't want her to be in it long term, but it sure works for those trips out. I bought a gel cushion for the seat as well for more comfort.
TRANSPORT CHAIR ; the person in the chair CANNOT move the chair themselves while in it. They need to be pushed from the back by another person.
WHEELCHAIR: Generally, person sitting in the chair can move the wheels and 'move' by themselves to degree.
the most important feature you should look at is the handles. Make sure the position is tight so you can navigate/push with ease and not hurt your back.
https://www.amazon.com/Drive-Medical-RTL10266WT-T-Walker-Rollator/dp/B00QFYS49E#immersive-view_1675163817951
They're available from Amazon, Walgreens, CVS, etc.
It all depends on how your going to use it. If an occasional outing, I would not get a reg transport. If using all the time I may. If you go with reg one the have then where the back folds down. One that the sides lifts up for easy transfer. Usually the foot rests come off so easier to get into a vehicle. Medicare will pay if an order from the doctor.
With Moms weight, I think a light one would work. My Uncle weighted maybe 180lbs if that much and his caretaker took him everywhere in a lightweight one.
I has four small wheels and feet rests. Small for the trunk of your car or even the back seat.
https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/walgreens-ultra-light-weight-transport-chair,-19/ID=prod6393593-product?ext=gooFY23_GOO_RET_RETAILDEMANDGEN_Performance+Max+-+Home+Health+Care_REV_SRC_PMAX_PMAX_NA_PMAX_ENG__pla_local&gclsrc=aw.ds&&gclid=Cj0KCQiA_bieBhDSARIsADU4zLfai1OHNF5GNGGShURJSslmeSgtf5ZORbEE6oxxmGGIE-DVUgUgSxUaAvPMEALw_wcB