Just as with bicycles and cars, looking after a seating or mobility device helps to increase its lifespan, minimise the effect of wear and tear, and ensure the continued safety and well-being of the user.

A regular routine of care is taught to users and carers to help maintain the device in optimal condition. This includes cleaning the wheelchair parts, upholstery and foam cushion, tightening nuts and bolts, screws and knobs, oiling moving parts, cleaning axles and checking tyre pressure. Training in use of the correct tools, materials and methods is given.

In addition to this daily care, it is important that all devices are checked by a wheelchair technician every few months or when attending a review. The clinical team can provide information about any parts replacement for the device.

Our skilled technicians manage more complex problems, replace parts and make modifications suggested by the seating practitioner. This may be done on site during a visit (mobile service) or at the factory if this is not possible. The seating practitioner and technician will advise when a device or cushion needs replacement and the upholsterer can repair or modify covers.

Our wheelchair repair and refurbishment workshop in Cape Town is resourced to do repairs and solve technical problems for both manual and power devices. Technicians work closely with seating practitioners and can also refurbish a range of Shonaquip and other used hospital equipment or assistive devices which can then be re-issued by trained seating practitioners.

Visit our Get Involved Page to find out more about donating a pre-loved device.

Learn how to take care of your device.  Click on the image alongside to download the brochure.