For those with limited mobility, a wheelchair is an essential piece of equipment to enhance their quality of life and provide freedom of movement. In the past, wheelchairs were heavy and cumbersome for users as well as caregivers and lacked maneuverability. Today, thanks to advances in manufacturing and ergonomic design, attendants no longer need to be competitive body builders to lift wheelchairs upstairs or into a car trunk. One of the lightest weight, most intelligently designed wheelchairs on the market today is the Karman LT-980 Ultralight Weight Wheelchair .
The LT-980 is constructed of high strength lightweight aluminum and weighs a mere 24 lbs. (without a footrest), which is a vast improvement over traditional 33 to 38 lb. chairs. To help visualize how truly light this wheelchair is, imagine carrying a bowling ball or average two-year old. This is easily managed by the average person. Despite its light weight, this wheelchair is the same size as traditional wheelchairs with 6 x 1 puncture-proof high profile wheels with ergonomically-designed contoured push-rims. The Karman LT-980 is not to be confused with a transport wheelchair or companion chair which is designed only to be propelled by another individual or attendant.
This wheelchair makes movement easier for both the user and caregivers not only because of its ultralight weight, but also because of its ability to fold easily for storage, and its fully-adjustable swing-away and detachable footrests with built-in heel loops. Wheelchair users will also appreciate the durable contoured arm rests, breathable nylon upholstery and fully adjustable push to lock brakes. Another nice feature of the LT-980 is non-marking polyurethane wheels that are designed for easier rolling with less effort, even on carpet. The light-colored wheels will help insure floors will not be stained as they used to be with traditional black wheels.
The Karman LT-980 offers all the benefits of standard wheelchairs without their bulk and weight. They are easier to propel for users and caregivers and are much easier to transport in a car or airplane for travel. Lightweight wheelchairs are a bit more expensive than standard wheelchairs but the added convenience and ease of use will ultimately be worth the extra cost. Also, wheelchair users will want to customize their LT-980 with a seat and/or back cushion that best suits their needs and lifestyles.
With all of its advantages, itfs easy to see why the new Karman LT-980 is one of the companyfs best-selling wheelchairs. Karman Healthcare, Inc., located in southern California, has been manufacturing and distributing home medical products since 1994 and has a complete line of ergonomically designed wheelchairs and other mobility products.
Just because someone may need a wheelchair to get around does not mean they should accept limitations on their freedom and mobility. With the new lightweight wheelchairs on the market such as the LT-980, caregivers and wheelchair users alike will not be limited or weighed down by heavy, hard to maneuver, more traditional units. There are enough challenges out there for wheelchair users. Products that are intelligently designed can truly make a world of difference in the life of disabled individuals and their loved ones.
Rachel Huber,
and
Hulet Smith, OT
