Ambulation devices are widely available, but choosing the right one - especially as a first time user - can be overwhelming. There are several different options with various features that can significantly impact accessibility, utility, and comfort.

Wheelchairs and transport chairs both are designed to help increase mobility and convenience for elderly and disabled individuals. Knowing the differences between the two and considering the needs of the user will aid in the decision to choose one over the other.

To ensure choosing the best wheelchair or transport chair, we’ve created a guide to help you determine which mobility aid is right for you!

What's the Difference Between a Wheelchair and a Transport Chair?

When choosing between a wheelchair and a transport chair, look for differences in the rear wheels. Transport chairs have 8”-12” rear wheels that cannot be reached while sitting in the chair. Wheelchairs, however, are built with larger 18”-24” wheels topped with an easy-to-grip, rotating handrail that allow users to propel themselves forward. Transport chairs require the assistance of a second person to push from behind.

There is also a significant difference between braking systems. Wheelchairs often feature a push-lock wheel mechanism, locking the chair in place for users to safely enter or exit the chair. Transport chairs are equipped with brakes on the handles located on the back of the chair. This feature enables the person pushing the chair to apply the brakes more easily. Handbrakes help navigate steep slopes and a wider variety of outdoor terrains.

Suited for longer-duration sitting, most wheelchairs are equipped with padded armrests, backrests, and seats for optimum comfort. Transport chairs, however, are travel-friendly; The lightweight and compact design easily folds to fit in a car trunk, making it less bulky than a standard wheelchair.

What To Consider When Choosing Between the Two...

When choosing between a wheelchair and a transport chair, there are a few questions you need to consider that change from person to person. Do you require assistance getting in and out a vehicle? You might want to consider a transport chair that is lightweight, flexible, and easy to fold, lift, and store in a car trunk. Consider the environment in which you plan to use the chair. Does it have narrow doors and hallways? If so, you will want a transport chair that is narrow enough to navigate these pitfalls.

For someone with limited mobility who may not be able to walk unaided, a wheelchair can reduce the risk and fear of falling in the home or outdoors allowing you to move around with increased confidence. A wheelchair can also provide the user with a more active lifestyle, allowing them to partake in daily activities without additional assistance.

If you prefer a wheelchair, we recommend the: ProBasics K1 Standard Wheelchair

ProBasics K1 Standard Wheelchair is constructed of a heavy-duty reinforced steel in black powder coat finish for strength and durability. Chair features push-to-lock wheel locks and precision sealed bearings in the front and rear wheels, ensuring long lasting performance and reliability. In addition to locking wheels, the chair includes tool-free swing-away footrests with heel loops or elevating padded leg rests with composite footplates. Available in multiple seat widths: 16”, 18” and 20”.

If you prefer a transport chair, we recommend: ProBasics Transport Chair

Making transportation effortless, this lightweight transport chair features flared handles and handy back-release hinges to allow the back to fold down flat and compact for storage. The silver vein carbon steel frame with permanent rear axle provides strength and durability. For added safety, the chair is equipped with composite footrests and heel loops to keep legs and feet stable throughout transportation. The push-to-lock rear wheel locks are designed to secure the patient in place for easy entrance and exit from the chair.

Not sure either of those is the right fit? Browse all of our wheelchair options.

Now that you’ve found the right wheelchair, find the perfect wheelchair cushion to use with it!

References

Sellers, Margaret. (2019). Transport Chair vs. Wheelchair: What’s the Difference? Mobility Deck. Retrieved from https://bit.ly/2AfOcp4.

Anonymous. (2019). What is the Difference Between a Wheelchair and Transport Chair? Chair Institute. Retreived from https://bit.ly/3fEUdw1.

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided on this site, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational purposes only and are not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other healthcare professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.

 Round Or Elongated. How to determine the right Toilet Seat Riser.

Determining if a toilet seat is round or elongated is very easy by taking one simple measurement.

Per North American plumbing standards, toilets are either round or elongated (oval or oblong).

Measure your toilet, not your toilet seat, determine if you need a round or elongated toilet seat.

Measure from the seat mounting holes to the front, top edge of the bowl.
(see diagram)

Elongated bowls = 18.5 inches,

Round bowls = 16.5 inches.

Measure the length of the toilet bowl from the center of the toilet seat bolt holes at the back of the toilet, to the front edge of the toilet bowl.

Round toilet bowls measure at about 16.5 inches. Elongated toilet bowls measure about 18.5 inches.

That’s all it takes. Once you determine the measurement click on this link below to buy the right toilet seat riser. Gilgal Medical Supplies is the largest wholesaler and retailer of bath room accessories.  Generally toilet seats aren’t sold based on exact measurement, they’re sold based on the shape of your toilet. Once you know whether you have a round or elongated toilet, you’re set. Buy elongated toilet riser today.

What is an Ostomy pouch? What is a skin barrier or wafer?

At first, it can be overwhelming. Living with an ostomy can feel as if your whole world is going to change forever. It can be scary. It’s normal to have many feelings, emotions and anxieties. But you’re not alone. There are thousands of people who go through ostomy every day. We at Gilgal medical completely surround you with the support, inspiration, insights and ideas that you need to live with an ostomy in your own way. Ostomy nurses and product specialists are just a phone call away. Have specific questions about what ostomy products might be right for you? Call 407 891 2120.  

This brief synopsis will take you through all of the components of your ostomy system and help you find the right products and accessories that work for your body. Our catalog offers a wide range of comfortable, secure pouch and skin barrier options will allow you to find a customized system that works best for your ostomy type and lifestyle.

What is an Ostomy Pouch?

Pouch is a plastic bag that is attached to the stoma. This is the most recognizable and important part of your ostomy system; the pouch collects your stoma’s output. It should be emptied or replaced when it is one-third to one-half full. There are drainable pouch and disposable pouch. A full pouch can pull away from the barrier or skin due to the added weight and can also cause bulging under your clothes.

What is a Skin Barrier or Wafer?

A skin barrier is also called a “wafer,” your skin barrier is the piece of the pouching system that sticks to your body. It holds your pouch in place and should help protect the skin around your stoma from damage. It should fit snugly around your stoma to help prevent leakage and have an opening customized to your unique size and shape.

During a colostomy surgery, a surgeon will bring out a portion of a person’s large intestine through the stoma. The colostomy bag can then collect stool as it passes through the gut.

A person often needs a colostomy due to injury, disease, or another issue with the lower bowels. In some cases, the colostomy is temporary. In other situations, such as the removal of the colon due to colon cancer, the colostomy may be permanent.

A person with a colostomy bag will be able to continue with many of the same activities that they did before their surgery. Most other people will be unaware that someone uses a colostomy bag unless that person tells them.

People with a colostomy bag will need to avoid lifting heavy items and may need to visit the bathroom more frequently to manage their pouching system. Otherwise, a colostomy bag should not impact too much on someone’s daily routine.

If a pouch is in position securely, an individual with a colostomy bag should be able to take part in most sports and physical activities, including running and swimming. Although people should be careful if taking part in contact sports, they may wish to wear a belt or guard for protection.

Some things a person has to consider when living with a colostomy bag include the following:

• Carrying extra bags and spare supplies when traveling.
• Taking care when using a seat belt, so it does not lie across the stoma.
• Thinking about maybe avoiding foods that cause flatulence.
• Taking extra care with children and pets to avoid damaging the bag.
• Leaving the bag in place or removing it when showering and covering the stoma if removing.
• Looking for high waisted clothes and underwear or considering buying specialty clothes.

Having a colostomy bag should not affect a person’s sexual activity or pregnancy.

The American College of Surgeons recommend changing the bag when it is between one-third and one-half full. This precaution can help prevent the bag from pulling away from the skin and leaking.

How often a person needs to change their bag largely depends on the size of the bag itself. A smaller bag will need to be emptied more frequently and is the best type to use during the day. A larger bag can last more time without emptying and is often good for overnight or sleeping hours.

Some bags are reusable while others are disposable after a single use.

If your bowel needs to heal after a health problem or part of your colon needs to be taken out because of a condition or disease, you may need a colostomy bag. There are several types of colostomy bags by different manufacturers.

During surgery, the end of your colon is brought through an opening in your belly to form what's called a "stoma." This is where your feces (poop) will come out. Unlike your anus, your stoma doesn't have muscles or nerve endings. So you can't control when you move your bowels. Instead, a pouch, called a colostomy bag, goes over the stoma to collect your poop when it comes out.

Whether you'll only need it for a brief time or it's a permanent change, a colostomy bag can take some getting used to. But most people adjust and soon return to their normal lives.

Types of Bags

One colostomy bag doesn't fit all. There are different types to choose from:

• One-piece system: This fits around your stoma and is attached with a gentle adhesive. When you need a fresh bag, you take the whole thing off and replace it with a new one. Some of these systems use flushable liners.
• Two-piece system: A base plate fits tightly around your stoma, and you attach a bag to it. You'll change the bag as needed; the base plate usually is changed every 2 to 3 days.
• Closed bags: These are best used with firm stools. You'll change it twice a day. Some have special liners inside that can be flushed down the toilet.
• Drainable bags: These are best if your stools are very liquid. You empty them through an opening at the bottom. They need to be changed every 2 or 3 days.
• Mini pouches: These are small bags you wear for only a short amount of time.

Your doctor or a nurse trained in stoma care will help you choose the one that's right for you and your lifestyle. Many times, it's possible to try one before you decide.

As a community based organization Gilgal Medical is always looking for opportunities to assist those who are in need. In this rapidly changing market, When it comes to ostomy products, plenty of options are available for patients on the market today. You can try some free samples before deciding on which brand or type you want to use. By trying out free ostomy samples you can figure out what works best for your needs.

Do not. hesitate to reach out to us . To start the sample request process, just reach out to us. Contact us and we’ll be delighted to help you try out some free samples or work together with you to build a customized order of ostomy supplies.

Absolutely not !!! Ostomy bags and supplies can be purchased from Gilgal Medical without any prescription. You just call us and let us know some basic info such as the size of the stoma, type of bag you are using. Once our specialists determine the right bags and supplies, we can ship it to you immediately.  Normally supplies can be delivers in 24 hrs. Call us today at 407 484 0032.

Gilgal Medical is a global leader in the distribution of ostomy supplies. We provide ostomy supplies to patients on time and and on short notice. Supplies can be shipped from any of our 45 ware houses in North America. If you need supplies in 24 hrs. please contact us at cs@gilgalmedical.com. Supplies will be personally delivered to you door by one of our representatives.

Our experienced staff can help you determine the right products/supplies.