‘Practical mobility aids’
Folding Wheelchairs are practical mobility aids for elderly and disabled users, ideal for putting in the boot of a car and easy to store. LCS offers folding wheelchairs in various seat widths and colours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of folding wheelchairs are available from LCS in Ireland?
LCS supplies a range of folding manual wheelchairs designed to meet different mobility, seating and everyday transport requirements.
The range includes the Catalyst 5, Catalyst 5Ti, Catalyst 5VX, Etac Cross 6, Etac Cross 5XL and Liberty.
These wheelchairs offer different combinations of adjustability, portability, propulsion efficiency and postural support. The most appropriate model depends on the user’s measurements, physical abilities, lifestyle and individual assessment.
What are the benefits of a folding wheelchair compared with a rigid wheelchair?
A folding wheelchair can be collapsed into a more compact shape, making it a practical option for storage and transportation, particularly when travelling by car.
Rigid wheelchairs generally have fewer moving frame components and may offer a more direct, responsive propulsion experience, depending on their design and configuration.
The choice between folding and rigid wheelchairs depends on several factors, including the user’s strength, transfer requirements, transport arrangements, seating needs and preferred method of propulsion.
LCS offers both folding and rigid manual wheelchair options to accommodate different individual requirements.
Are folding wheelchairs suitable for active wheelchair users?
Yes. Some folding wheelchairs are specifically designed to combine everyday portability with responsive manual propulsion.
Models such as the Catalyst 5 and Catalyst 5Ti offer lightweight frame designs and adjustable configurations, making them options for users who want an active manual wheelchair without sacrificing the convenience of a folding frame.
The most suitable wheelchair will depend on factors such as propulsion technique, upper-limb function, seating position, wheelchair weight and intended daily use.
An individual assessment can help determine whether an active folding wheelchair meets the user’s mobility goals.
Can folding wheelchairs be adjusted to accommodate changing seating needs?
Yes. Several folding wheelchairs available through LCS provide extensive adjustment options to accommodate individual measurements and changing requirements.
For example, the Etac Cross 6 offers adjustable seat height, seat depth, rear-wheel positioning and back support, allowing its configuration to be reviewed and modified over time.
Adjustability is particularly useful when changes in posture, mobility or functional ability require the wheelchair setup to be reassessed.
Available adjustments vary by model, and changes should be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Are folding tilt-in-space wheelchairs available?
Yes. The Ki Mobility Liberty combines a folding frame with tilt-in-space functionality and the option for independent propulsion.
Tilt-in-space allows the seat and backrest to change orientation together while maintaining their relative angle. This can provide alternative supported positions for users who require assistance with postural management, comfort or repositioning.
The Liberty’s folding design also makes it an option for users who need tilt-in-space functionality alongside a wheelchair that can be transported or stored more compactly.
Suitability should be determined through an individual clinical assessment.
How do I choose the right folding wheelchair for my needs?
Choosing a folding wheelchair involves considering the user’s body measurements, mobility, strength, posture, seating requirements and everyday environment.
Important factors include wheelchair weight, folded dimensions, seat adjustability, ease of propulsion, transfer arrangements, compatibility with specialist seating and how frequently the wheelchair will need to be transported.
LCS works with occupational therapists, physiotherapists and wheelchair users to help identify suitable wheelchair and seating configurations.
To discuss the folding wheelchair range or arrange a product demonstration, contact LCS at info@lcs.ltd or call 071 916 3905.
You can also find your local LCS representative at https://lcs.ltd/find-my-rep/.