Wheelchair: Difference between revisions
mNo edit summary |
CSV import |
||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
= Wheelchair = | {{Infobox assistive technology | ||
| name = Wheelchair | |||
| image = Man in wheelchair with AFO braces and crutches.jpg | |||
| caption = A man using a wheelchair with AFO braces and crutches | |||
| type = Mobility device | |||
| used for = Assisting individuals with mobility impairments | |||
}} | |||
A '''wheelchair''' is a | A '''wheelchair''' is a chair with wheels, designed to assist individuals who have difficulty walking or are unable to walk due to illness, injury, or disability. Wheelchairs come in various types and designs, tailored to meet the specific needs of users. They can be manually propelled by the user, pushed by another person, or powered by batteries. | ||
== History == | ==History== | ||
The wheelchair | The concept of the wheelchair dates back centuries, with early examples found in ancient China and Greece. The modern wheelchair, however, began to take shape in the 18th century. The image of [[File:Xiao er lun - Confucius and children.jpg|thumb|right|An early depiction of a wheelchair-like device]] shows an early form of mobility aid. | ||
==Types of Wheelchairs== | |||
== | ===Manual Wheelchairs=== | ||
Manual wheelchairs are propelled by the user or an attendant. They are typically lightweight and foldable, making them easy to transport. Users propel themselves by pushing on the hand rims attached to the wheels. | |||
===Powered Wheelchairs=== | |||
Powered wheelchairs are equipped with electric motors and batteries, allowing users to move with minimal physical effort. They are controlled using a joystick or other input devices, making them suitable for individuals with limited upper body strength. | |||
== | ===Sports Wheelchairs=== | ||
Designed for athletic activities, sports wheelchairs are lightweight and highly maneuverable. They are used in sports such as wheelchair basketball, tennis, and racing. | |||
== | ===Standing Wheelchairs=== | ||
Standing wheelchairs allow users to raise themselves to a standing position, providing health benefits such as improved circulation and bone density. | |||
== | ==Components== | ||
The | Wheelchairs consist of several key components: | ||
* '''Frame''': The structure that supports the seat and wheels. | |||
* '''Seat and Backrest''': Provide comfort and support for the user. | |||
* '''Wheels''': Typically two large rear wheels and two smaller front wheels. | |||
* '''Footrests''': Support the user's feet and can be adjusted for comfort. | |||
* '''Armrests''': Provide support for the user's arms. | |||
== | ==Usage and Accessibility== | ||
Wheelchair users face various challenges related to accessibility. Public spaces, transportation, and buildings must be designed to accommodate wheelchairs, ensuring ramps, elevators, and wide doorways are available. The [[Americans with Disabilities Act]] (ADA) in the United States mandates accessibility standards to improve the quality of life for wheelchair users. | |||
== | ==Cultural and Social Impact== | ||
Wheelchairs have a significant impact on the independence and quality of life of users. They enable participation in social, educational, and professional activities. The image of [[File: Michael Dunn, Raymond, Potter Co., Penna. - Photographed by Hope, successor to M.H. Kimball, 477 Broadway, New York. LCCN2015649856.jpg|thumb|right|A historical photograph of a wheelchair user]] highlights the long-standing role of wheelchairs in society. | |||
== | ==Also see== | ||
* [[Mobility scooter]] | |||
* | * [[Assistive technology]] | ||
* | * [[Disability rights movement]] | ||
* [[Americans with Disabilities Act]] | |||
{{Assistive technology}} | |||
{{Disability rights}} | |||
[[Category:Assistive technology]] | [[Category:Assistive technology]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Mobility devices]] | ||
Latest revision as of 02:45, 11 December 2024
Template:Infobox assistive technology
A wheelchair is a chair with wheels, designed to assist individuals who have difficulty walking or are unable to walk due to illness, injury, or disability. Wheelchairs come in various types and designs, tailored to meet the specific needs of users. They can be manually propelled by the user, pushed by another person, or powered by batteries.
History[edit]
The concept of the wheelchair dates back centuries, with early examples found in ancient China and Greece. The modern wheelchair, however, began to take shape in the 18th century. The image of
shows an early form of mobility aid.
Types of Wheelchairs[edit]
Manual Wheelchairs[edit]
Manual wheelchairs are propelled by the user or an attendant. They are typically lightweight and foldable, making them easy to transport. Users propel themselves by pushing on the hand rims attached to the wheels.
Powered Wheelchairs[edit]
Powered wheelchairs are equipped with electric motors and batteries, allowing users to move with minimal physical effort. They are controlled using a joystick or other input devices, making them suitable for individuals with limited upper body strength.
Sports Wheelchairs[edit]
Designed for athletic activities, sports wheelchairs are lightweight and highly maneuverable. They are used in sports such as wheelchair basketball, tennis, and racing.
Standing Wheelchairs[edit]
Standing wheelchairs allow users to raise themselves to a standing position, providing health benefits such as improved circulation and bone density.
Components[edit]
Wheelchairs consist of several key components:
- Frame: The structure that supports the seat and wheels.
- Seat and Backrest: Provide comfort and support for the user.
- Wheels: Typically two large rear wheels and two smaller front wheels.
- Footrests: Support the user's feet and can be adjusted for comfort.
- Armrests: Provide support for the user's arms.
Usage and Accessibility[edit]
Wheelchair users face various challenges related to accessibility. Public spaces, transportation, and buildings must be designed to accommodate wheelchairs, ensuring ramps, elevators, and wide doorways are available. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States mandates accessibility standards to improve the quality of life for wheelchair users.
Cultural and Social Impact[edit]
Wheelchairs have a significant impact on the independence and quality of life of users. They enable participation in social, educational, and professional activities. The image of
highlights the long-standing role of wheelchairs in society.
