Best Wheelchairs for Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia are challenging conditions. It can be difficult to keep a patient active and engaged in their environment. Consider using a Broda wheelchair to improve their quality of life. Depending on the user’s level of mobility, we can create personalized wheelchairs that users can self-propel with the hands or feet. Each Broda wheelchair is easy to use and safe for any stage of Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Our Recommendations for Alzheimer’s & Dementia
Built-In Fall Prevention & Comfort
Falls are the leading cause of death in people over the age of 65. Broda wheelchairs include built-in fall protection to keep you or your loved one steady and safe. Our swing-away arm and leg supports can be gently placed to the side while the user is transferred to and from the chair, leaving a wide space for them to move. While the user is seated, the wheelchair can be tilted and reclined to help the occupant keep a comfortable and secure posture. Additionally, our unique Comfort Tension Seating® molds to each user’s body, creating a supportive, anti-slip seating surface.
Easy Hygiene Routines
Hygiene is an important part of care that is a distinct challenge for individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Our Revive Shower Commode offers a comfortable, dignified bathing experience. The Revive features our Comfort Tension Seating® and the full spectrum of positioning features for bathing hard-to-reach areas. With the Revive, caregivers can help their patients with memory loss stay well-positioned and safe, which decreases stress during their hygiene routine.
Dynamic Rocking Enhances Movement
Staying physically active is important for adults with Alzheimer’s. Some of our pedal wheelchairs feature Dynamic Rocking. Dynamic Rocking emulates the soothing motion of your favorite rocking chair and keeps the user comfortable, relaxed, and engaged. Rocking can help strengthen various muscle groups and provides excellent proprioceptive input. For Alzheimer’s and dementia patients, a rocking movement can also keep the user engaged in their environment, allowing them to stay content in a safe area. For this reason, our Dynamic Rocking wheelchairs are popular in memory care facilities.
Cleaning & Sanitation Made Easy
As we age, urinary incontinence can also become an issue. All our wheelchair cushions and components are fluid-resistant and you can easily wipe them clean in case of an accident. This cleanability is also beneficial for mealtime spillage, contagious illnesses, and much more. Your user’s manual will even come with cleaning tips for your specific wheelchair model.
Durable & High Quality
Broda manufactures each wheelchair in North America with premium materials. The frames are constructed with 16-gauge, powder-coated tubular steel, built to outlast any other wheelchair. We also offer an industry-leading 10-year frame warranty and a 2-year warranty on all wheelchair parts. You can be confident that your Broda wheelchair will last for as long as you need it, with minimal repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what stage does Alzheimer’s affect walking?
Alzheimer’s typically affects walking in the middle to late stages, as cognitive decline leads to muscle weakness, poor coordination, and balance issues. Individuals may develop a shuffling gait, hesitancy in movement, or difficulty navigating spaces, increasing their risk of falls and requiring mobility support.
Are Alzheimer’s and dementia the same, and how do they each affect mobility?
Alzheimer’s is a specific type of dementia, while dementia is a general term for conditions causing memory loss and cognitive decline. Both can impact mobility by reducing balance, coordination, and spatial awareness, but progression varies. Some forms, like vascular dementia or Lewy body dementia, can cause stiffness, tremors, or fluctuating movement control, affecting mobility differently.
When should you begin wheelchair use for dementia patients?
A wheelchair should be introduced when walking becomes unsafe, fatigue limits mobility, or fall risk increases. Early use of self-propelling or rocking wheelchairs can help maintain independence and engagement, while more supportive models may be necessary as mobility declines. A healthcare provider can recommend the best time and type of wheelchair based on individual needs.
How do Broda wheelchairs promote safety and comfort for individuals prone to wandering or restlessness?
Broda wheelchairs enhance safety and comfort with tilt-in-space seating, fall prevention features, and Comfort Tension Seating® to reduce sliding. For individuals prone to wandering or restlessness, select models offer Dynamic Rocking, a calming motion that helps reduce anxiety while keeping users engaged. These features provide relaxing stimulation that promotes contentment and reduces the urge to wander.