Wheelchairs
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Wheelchairs are indispensable mobility aids that support people with limited walking ability. In this category you will find various types of wheelchairs that differ in weight, features and functionality. Standard wheelchairs offer solid basic equipment and are often foldable to facilitate transport and storage. Lightweight wheelchairs are characterised by their lower weight and more compact dimensions, which simplify handling in everyday life.
The choice of a wheelchair depends on individual needs such as body weight, degree of mobility and area of use. Important features include the folded dimensions, the length of the footrests, the overall width as well as the height of the backrest and armrests. Multifunctional wheelchairs offer additional adjustment options and comfort, for example through adjustable backrests or armrests.
Brands such as drive and Teqler are represented in this category and offer high-quality models. The wheelchairs are usually designed for a maximum load of up to 130 kg and feature robust drive wheels with a 24-inch diameter as well as compact front wheels. The HMV number 18.50.02.0131 indicates the medical approval.
Important selection criteria for wheelchairs
- Weight and folded dimensions for easy handling and transport
- Size and adjustability of footrests and armrests
- Overall width and height for comfort and a proper fit
- Maximum load capacity corresponding to the user's weight
- Type of wheels for different surfaces and areas of use
A suitable wheelchair supports mobility and contributes to independence. The right choice depends on individual requirements, which is why careful advice and adjustment are recommended.
Wheelchairs in everyday life: check dimensions, manoeuvrability and transport
For the practical use of a wheelchair, not only seating comfort and load capacity are decisive, but also the spatial conditions of everyday life. The overall width should be suitable for doors, lift cabins, corridors and bathrooms, while overall length and manoeuvrability are important in confined living situations. A foldable wheelchair with narrow folded dimensions is easier to store or take along in the car; the overall weight plays a particular role for relatives and carers.
The adjustment of the footrests and armrests also affects handling in everyday life. Footrests of a suitable length support a stable seating position, while armrests can be relevant when transferring sideways or moving up to a table. Before purchasing, it is worth measuring the main places of use and checking whether the wheelchair is mainly moved independently via the hand rims or whether an accompanying person frequently pushes it.
Wheelchair or another mobility aid?
A wheelchair is suitable when longer distances are covered while seated or when walking is only possible to a limited extent. Those who can still walk independently but need additional stability and opportunities to rest may, depending on the situation, also find a suitable solution with rollators. For short distances with a higher need for support, walking frames may be useful, as they primarily provide support for safe leaning while walking.
A further distinction can be made from transport chairs. These are usually designed to be pushed by an accompanying person, whereas many wheelchairs with large drive wheels are constructed for independent movement via hand rims. Which mobility aid is suitable depends on walking ability, strength, environment and the planned duration of use.
Who pays for a wheelchair in Switzerland?
Depending on the life situation, a different social insurance covers the costs. If the need arises before the OASI reference age, the Invalidity Insurance (IV) is responsible: it covers non-motorised wheelchairs and electric wheelchairs in a simple, appropriate design – usually on loan from its depots. Registration is done using form 001.002 at the IV office of the canton of residence; an IV entitlement once granted remains in place even in retirement age thanks to the acquired rights guarantee.
At OASI age, the OASI contributes a maximum of CHF 900.– towards a non-motorised wheelchair, which can be claimed again every five years (application with form 009.001 at the IV office). In the case of special provision required due to disability, up to CHF 1'840.– is possible, and up to CHF 2'200.– with an additionally required anti-decubitus cushion; rental costs can also be reimbursed up to the maximum amount. If an accident is the cause, the accident insurance (UVG) primarily covers wheelchairs with and without a motor.
Important to know: The basic insurance of the health insurance fund does not contribute to wheelchairs according to the list of medical aids and appliances (MiGeL); a contribution is possible at most through supplementary insurance. Supplementary benefits can reimburse part of the OASI contribution as well as repairs, and organisations such as Pro Senectute or Pro Infirmis grant contributions or loan devices in individual cases. For temporary needs – for example after an operation – or as a second wheelchair, direct purchase is worthwhile: at saneq, standard wheelchairs are available from stock at short notice. Detailed information is provided in the official leaflets 3.02 "Aids of the OASI" and 4.03 "Aids of the IV" of the OASI/IV information centre.
- What types of wheelchairs are available and how do they differ?
- There are various types of wheelchairs, including standard wheelchairs, lightweight wheelchairs and multifunctional wheelchairs. Standard models are robust and often foldable, lightweight wheelchairs are lighter and easier to handle, whilst multifunctional wheelchairs offer additional adjustment options and comfort. The choice depends on individual needs and the area of use.
- How do I choose the right wheelchair for my needs?
- The right wheelchair is selected based on criteria such as body weight, level of mobility, area of use and comfort requirements. Important features include the weight, folded dimensions, size of the footrests, height of the backrest and armrests as well as the maximum load capacity. Individual advice helps to find the optimal model.
- What role do the wheels play when choosing a wheelchair?
- The wheels influence the mobility and range of use of the wheelchair. The size and material of the drive wheels determine how well the wheelchair performs on different surfaces. Drive wheels with a 24-inch diameter are common and offer good handling, while smaller front castors improve manoeuvrability. The choice of wheels should suit the place of use and your individual requirements.
- How do I care for and maintain a wheelchair correctly?
- A wheelchair should be cleaned regularly and checked for wear. This includes inspecting the wheels, brakes and joints. Dirt can be removed with a damp cloth. In the event of technical problems or damage, professional repair is important to ensure safety and functionality.
- For which body weight are the wheelchairs in this category suitable?
- The wheelchairs in this category are generally designed for a maximum load capacity of up to 130 kg. It is important to consider the user's body weight in order to ensure safety and comfort. For heavier individuals, special models with a higher load capacity are required.
- Does a wheelchair fit through standard doorways?
- Whether a wheelchair fits through standard doors depends on its overall width and the actual door width. In the technical specifications, the overall width of the model is particularly important, not just the seat width. Before purchasing, doors, lift cabins and narrow passages at the place of use should be measured. In addition, please note that a little clearance is helpful when manoeuvring, particularly in bathrooms, hallways or small rooms.
- What is the difference between a wheelchair and a transport chair?
- A wheelchair is often designed to be propelled by the user themselves, whereas a transport chair is usually pushed by an accompanying person. Wheelchairs often have large rear wheels with hand rims, while transport chairs have more compact wheels. As a result, they differ in weight, manoeuvrability and area of use. For short accompanied journeys, a transport chair can be practical; for greater independence, a suitably equipped wheelchair is usually more appropriate.
- Can a folding wheelchair be transported in a car?
- A folding wheelchair can often be transported in a car, provided that the folded dimensions, total weight and boot size are compatible. It is important to compare the width when folded and the overall length of the wheelchair with the available space. Removable or swing-away footrests can make stowing easier. If the wheelchair is transported regularly, it should also be considered who will lift it and how heavy the model is.
- What is the importance of adjustable footrests on a wheelchair?
- Adjustable footrests help to adapt the leg position to the user's height and sitting posture. A suitable footrest length can help to ensure that the feet rest securely and that the knee position is more comfortable. If the footrests are set too short or too long, sitting can become unfavourable. Especially with regular use, you should check whether the length, swivel function and detachability of the footrests suit your everyday needs.
- Is a wheelchair more suitable for indoor or outdoor use?
- A wheelchair can be used both indoors and outdoors, depending on its design. For indoor use, overall width, manoeuvrability and the ability to navigate narrow spaces are crucial. Outdoors, the surface, wheel size, stability and brakes play a greater role. Many standard and lightweight wheelchairs are intended for mixed everyday situations, but should be selected based on the specific technical specifications and the intended environment.
- What should be considered when an accompanying person pushes the wheelchair?
- When a companion pushes the wheelchair, the push handles, brakes, overall weight and manoeuvrability are particularly important. The wheelchair should be easy to steer in a controlled manner and suit the height of the person pushing it. For transport and storage, a folding model with a compact folded size is helpful. The surroundings also play a role: ramps, thresholds and tight bends require a stable construction and safe operation of the brakes.
- Who pays for a wheelchair in Switzerland?
- This depends on the situation: before the OASI reference age, disability insurance (IV) covers wheelchairs as aids, usually on loan. At OASI age, the OASI pays a contribution of up to CHF 900.– every five years towards non-powered wheelchairs. If an accident is the cause, the accident insurance covers the cost. The basic health insurance, on the other hand, does not contribute to wheelchairs. The IV office of the canton of residence is responsible for applications.
- How much does the health insurance contribute towards a wheelchair?
- Under the mandatory basic insurance (KVG), no contributions are made towards wheelchairs according to the list of medical devices and objects (MiGeL). A cost contribution is only possible through any supplementary insurance (VVG) you may have – it is worth checking your policy. Instead, depending on the situation, the IV (disability insurance), AHV (old-age and survivors' insurance) or accident insurance is responsible for the funding.
- What does the AHV contribute towards a wheelchair?
- Anyone who has reached the reference age (or who is drawing their entire retirement pension early) and is permanently dependent on a wheelchair receives up to CHF 900.– from the AHV towards a non-motorised wheelchair, claimable anew every five years – regardless of income and assets. Where a special provision is required due to a disability, up to CHF 1'840.– is possible, and up to CHF 2'200.– with an additional anti-decubitus cushion. Rental costs can also be reimbursed up to the maximum amount. The application is submitted using form 009.001 to the IV office of the canton of residence.
- Does the IV cover my wheelchair?
- Yes – if the need arises before the AHV reference age, the disability insurance (IV) covers non-powered wheelchairs and electric wheelchairs in a simple, functional design, usually on a loan basis. The application is submitted using form 001.002 to the IV office of the canton of residence. Thanks to the acquired rights guarantee, an approved entitlement remains in place even after retirement.
- Can I buy a wheelchair directly without insurance?
- Yes. For temporary needs – for example after an operation – or as a second wheelchair for holidays and outings, buying directly is often the simplest solution. At saneq, standard wheelchairs are available from around CHF 300.–, lightweight wheelchairs from around CHF 430.–, from stock with fast delivery. Depending on your situation, supplementary benefits, Pro Senectute or Pro Infirmis may also provide contributions.