How to Choose a Wheelchair for a Parent or Family Member: Size, Weight and Type

Short answer: choose a manual wheelchair if someone will be pushing it and you want the lowest cost (manual wheelchairs start from AED 330 at Biomagna Med). Choose an electric wheelchair if the user wants to move around independently with a joystick (electric models start from AED 2,500). Then compare the seat width, seat depth, weight and maximum user weight listed for each model against your measurements.

Manual or electric wheelchair: how they differ

A manual wheelchair is lighter, simpler and cheaper, and is pushed by a family member for errands, shopping and outings. An electric wheelchair is operated with a joystick and gives the user independence at home and outdoors, but costs more, needs regular battery charging and takes practice to control. If the chair will cover longer distances or be used without someone to push it, electric is worth comparing. Our electric vs manual wheelchair guide goes deeper.

What to check before you buy

• Seat width and depth. Measure the person sitting down, from hip to hip and from the back of the hips to the back of the knee. Choose a seat that fits without being tight and leaves a little room at each side.
• Backrest and seat padding. Compare backrest height and padded seating across models. Reclining wheelchairs have a backrest that adjusts to different angles.
• Weight and transport. If you will lift the chair into a car, check the real weight of the model. Foldable electric wheelchairs are easier to store and transport.
• Weight capacity. Confirm the maximum user weight listed for the model. For higher capacity, see heavy-duty wheelchairs.
• Footrests. Check whether the footrests are adjustable or detachable, and that their length suits the user's leg length. For detachable elevating leg rests, see the manual wheelchair with detachable elevating leg rests (100 kg loading capacity).
• Where it will be used. Think about doorways, lifts, ramps and the surfaces outside your home.

Rent or buy?

If you need the chair for a short period, for example a family visit or a trip, renting a wheelchair can make sense. If it is a long-term need, buying usually fits better. Our guide to renting vs buying a wheelchair explains how to decide, and our wheelchair buying guide covers prices and what to look for.

Price guide

Manual wheelchairs start from AED 330, reclining models from AED 1,200 and electric wheelchairs from AED 2,500. See the full range and current prices in our wheelchairs collection. For a reclining backrest, compare the reclining manual wheelchair (AED 1,200) with the aluminium reclining manual wheelchair (AED 4,800).

Frequently asked questions

What is the best wheelchair for a family member?
It depends on how it will be used. A manual wheelchair suits a chair that will be pushed by someone else. An electric wheelchair suits a user who wants to move independently with a joystick. Compare seat width, weight and maximum user weight against the model specifications.

How do I choose the right wheelchair size?
Measure the person sitting down and compare with the seat width and depth of the model. The seat should fit without being tight.

Can I rent a wheelchair instead of buying one?
Yes. Biomagna Med rents wheelchairs as well as selling them. Message us on WhatsApp for current rental rates and availability.

Do you deliver wheelchairs across the UAE?
Yes. We deliver from Ajman to Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi and the other emirates. Contact us or message us on WhatsApp.