Folding a Drive wheelchair is a straightforward process designed to maximize portability for vehicle transport and compact storage. Quickly collapsing the chair allows users to maintain mobility and independence when traveling or navigating tight spaces. Drive Medical incorporates folding mechanisms across its manual wheelchair lines to ensure ease of use for both the user and the caregiver.
Identifying Your Drive Wheelchair Type
The precise folding technique depends on whether you have a standard manual wheelchair or a transport chair. Standard manual wheelchairs typically feature large rear wheels and fold primarily through a central cross-brace system beneath the seat. This design offers durability and self-propulsion capabilities. Transport chairs, which are intended to be pushed by a caregiver, are generally lighter and more compact. Many Drive transport models incorporate a drop-back hinge, allowing the backrest to fold forward over the seat before the main frame collapses.
Pre-Folding Preparation
Before attempting to collapse the frame, secure the chair to prevent unexpected movement. Engage the parking brakes on both rear wheels by pushing the brake levers forward, locking the chair in place on a level surface. These brakes ensure the chair remains stationary while you prepare the components for folding.
Next, remove or reposition any detachable accessories, starting with the footrests or leg rests. Most Drive models use a swing-away feature where you lift a small lever near the mounting bracket, swing the footrest outward, and then lift it up and off the frame. If the footrests are not removable, flip the footplates up to a vertical position. Finally, remove any seat cushions, personal items, or bags from the seat and backrest, as these objects will impede the frame’s complete closure.
Step-by-Step Folding Instructions
Once the chair is clear and secured, position yourself facing the front of the wheelchair. This orientation provides the best leverage and a clear view of the collapsing mechanism. The main folding action is centered on the cross-brace, the X-shaped structure beneath the seat upholstery.
To initiate the collapse, grasp the seat fabric or the metal seat rails on both sides near the center. Lift with a steady, upward pull until the sides of the chair draw inward toward each other. This motion activates the cross-brace pivot, causing the frame to fold into a flattened state. Continue pulling until the chair is fully collapsed, indicated by a slight resistance or a soft click as the frame settles into its most compact form.
Securing and Transporting the Folded Chair
After the frame is fully collapsed, look for any built-in securing mechanisms on the wheelchair. Some Drive models include an integrated strap or clip that fastens around the frame to prevent accidental reopening during transit. If a permanent fastener is not present, a simple Velcro strap or luggage tie can be used to keep the unit compressed.
When lifting the folded chair, proper biomechanics are important to prevent injury. Always lift using your leg muscles by bending at the knees and keeping your back straight, holding the lift close to your body by grasping the main frame tubing. For vehicle transport, lay the chair flat in a trunk or cargo area, ensuring it is secured with tie-down straps to prevent shifting.