If you’re using a self propelled wheelchair you will usually need a way of protecting your hands, especially if you’re using your wheelchair a lot.

A good variety of gloves are available, made from various materials including neoprene, leather type and various waterproof canvas and rubber types for extra grip.

Prices can range from around £10 – £25 depending on what type you need and the type of materials that you prefer, some are more suited to light use while others will be better suited to regular heavy use.

Some gloves will breath better than others so if purchasing a pair to use them during the summer you may prefer a type that dont cause your hands to sweat too much.

Ideally you might purchase a pair for the summer and a pair more suited to the cooler months.

Two of the main benefits from wheelchair gloves is protection for your hands and better grip and because your hands and arms are doing more of the work it’s important to protect your hands as much as possible.

With there being a good variety available it ensures that you will find a pair thats just right for you, you can find fingerless gloves, or fingerless but with full thumb padding or full finger and thumb covering and protection.

Junior sizes are available too of some gloves so nearly everyone who wants to use wheelchair gloves can find a pair to suit them.

Sometimes a wheelchair user may have a tendency to slump forward and needs a way to remain in a more upright position while still being comfortable and safe.

A wheelchair torso support can assist with this by providing straps that go over the shoulders and a waistband that holds the wheelchair user comfortably in place.

It doesn’t restrict movement or use of the arms and can easily be undone, torso supports are usually foam padded and easily wiped clean with a velcro attachment and the waistband is adjustable to suit the user.

They are usually priced around £18

If you have trouble moving a stiff leg or a leg that is immobile for example as you get into a comfortable position in a wheel chair or a chair within your home then a leg lifter mobility aid can help with this day to day task.

How it usually works is that each end has a loop and you are able to slide the bottom loop underneath your foot and hold onto the other end with your hand then you can pull and lift your leg upwards enough off the floor to get your foot into position on the footrest of your wheelchair or just position your leg in a more comfortable position while in a seat at home.

You can usually purchase a leg lifter for under £10, and they come in handy throughout the day when you need to move one or both of your legs into an ideal position with ease.