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WARNING: The centre of balance is affected by a change in posture body position or
weight distribution.
Many activities require the wheelchair owner to reach, bend and transfer into and out of
the wheelchair. These movements will cause a change to normal balance, centre of gravity
and weight distribution of the wheelchair.
The design of your wheelchair enables it to remain stable for normal everyday usage if used
correctly in accordance with the recommendations in this manual.
1. Reaching/bending forward
Move the wheelchair as close as possible to the object you wish to reach. Position the front
castors so that they are extended as far forward as possible. Fully engage the wheel locks
on the rear wheels. Only reach out to take what is within arm's length in normal sitting
position. Only the arms should extend beyond the seat of the wheelchair.
2. Reaching/bending backwards
Move the wheelchair as close as possible to the object you wish to reach. Reach back only
as far as your arm will extend without changing your seating position. Do not lean over the
top of the back upholstery as this could change your centre of gravity and may cause you
to tip over.
3. Reaching/leaning sideways
Move the wheelchair as close as possible to the object you wish to reach. Rotate the front
castors to a line in the direction you will be reaching. Fully engage the wheel locks on
the rear wheels. Do not shift your weight or sitting position towards the object you are
reaching as it may cause the wheelchair to tip over.
4. Transferring
Before attempting to transfer in and out of the wheelchair, every precaution should be
taken to ensure the gap between the two seats is as small as possible. Be certain that the
wheel locks are on to prevent the wheels moving. Turn both castors in the direction of the
seat to which you wish to move. Lift up the footplates and fold back the supports to the
side. Do not stand on the footplates. It is imperative that the actual transfer procedure be
supervised by a certified health care professional until the wheelchair owner is familiar with
the procedure.
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