Lightweight wheelchair

[MrsDeaconClaybourne]

Does anyone have any recommendations for a really lightweight wheelchair. DM is struggling a bit with mobility and we could do with something that is light to carry if possible as she wouldn't need it all the time just when she needs a bit of a rest or it is hilly. Thanks in advance

During lockdown we got DM the 2Go Ability Access via Costco. It is light but quite big and getting spare parts has been difficult. I wouldn’t buy it again.

Would you carry it along folded?
Or wheel it empty (with all bags, the picnic and the flask of tea in it, most useful).
DS has an Excel Lite aluminium framed wheelchair. It folds small enough to fit in any car and is very light to lift in and out.

Most lightweight wheelchairs tend to have small wheels. They are fine on smooth/flat ground but not comfortable to sit in even on pavements. I would go with @MakingNBaking and get one that is easy to lift in and out of the car, designed for general use and then use it to carry all your stuff if mum isn't in it. My mum had the same thoughts when we first bought her a wheelchair and found it helpful to push/lean on it.

That's all really helpful stuff thank you. I hadn't considered size of wheels etc.

In my head I'd imagined carrying it folded and being able to whip it out when needed!! In practice I think using it to carry bags, shopping etc is much more likely and practical. I think it might actually help DM if she's pushing it.

Thanks again

I don’t think even the lightest of wheelchairs is something you'd like to carry. If you’re using it anywhere other than pavements, you’ll need bigger wheels. Small wheels might be a challenge on kerbs, I don’t know. On the other hand, a heavy wheelchair is a struggle to-get in and out of the car. So wheel diameter first, then get as light as you can