Finding the right electric wheelchair for an elderly person — whether for yourself or a parent — comes down to a few key features that most product listings gloss over. The right chair keeps you safe, comfortable, and independent. The wrong one creates frustration and unnecessary risk.
Here's what to look for, from the joystick to the doorframe.
Key takeaways
- Joystick size and sensitivity are the first things to check — arthritic hands need a larger, adjustable joystick
- Correct seat sizing prevents pressure injuries; measure the user before choosing a chair
- Most Australian homes built before 2000 have 810mm doorways — confirm the chair fits before ordering
In this article
- The features that matter most for elderly users
- Practical checks for families and carers
- Funding options for Australians aged 65 and over
The features that matter most for elderly users
The spec sheet won't tell you whether a chair is actually easy to live with. These are the details that make the real difference in day-to-day use.
Joystick size and sensitivity
For users with arthritis, reduced grip strength, or tremor, joystick size and sensitivity are critical. A large-diameter joystick knob is easier to push with limited grip. Proportional drive control, which responds in proportion to how hard you push rather than just the direction, gives users with tremor far smoother control.
Most chairs come with a standard small joystick. If the user has significant hand limitations, ask specifically about larger joystick options or adjustable sensitivity settings before you buy.
Seating comfort and safe transfers
Seat width should allow about 2.5cm on either side of the hips: wide enough to be comfortable, but not so wide that the armrests feel out of reach. Seat depth should leave 2 to 3 finger widths between the front edge of the seat and the back of the knees.
For getting in and out of the chair, look for swing-away footrests (they move to the side for easier foot placement) and flip-back armrests (they fold out of the way for a lateral transfer from a bed or armchair). These features matter enormously for anyone who transfers independently.
Stability and speed settings
Most mid-range electric wheelchairs include an adjustable speed limit. For elderly users, particularly those new to power chairs, setting the maximum to 4 to 6km/h initially gives confidence without the risk. Anti-tip wheels at the rear add an important layer of stability on ramps and uneven surfaces.
Practical checks for families and carers
Before you order, these two checks can save a lot of trouble after delivery.
Doorway clearance and turning space
Standard electric wheelchairs are 58 to 66cm wide. Most Australian homes built before 2000 have doorway openings of 810 to 820mm. Measure every doorway the user needs to pass through: bathroom doors are often the narrowest and the most overlooked.
For turning, power chairs need a clear space roughly equal to their turning circle diameter. Mid-wheel drive models turn in around 900mm, making them the best choice for tighter homes.
Weight and car transport
If a family member needs to transport the chair, weight matters. Standard power chairs weigh 70 to 100kg, which means they require a vehicle ramp or hoist, not manual lifting. Folding lithium chairs (15 to 22kg) can be loaded into a large car boot without a ramp, though some lifting is still involved.
If the chair will stay at home most of the time, transport weight is less of a concern. If family outings are part of the plan, factor in the car and the transport method right from the start.
Funding options for Australians aged 65 and over
If the user is 65 or older, the NDIS generally no longer applies. Other funding paths are available:
- Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP): provides basic equipment assessments and some lower-cost aids. An OT assessment is arranged through My Aged Care.
- Home Care Packages: Levels 3 and 4 can fund higher-cost equipment including electric wheelchairs. Apply through My Aged Care on 1800 200 422.
- DVA: Gold Card veterans can access fully funded equipment regardless of age.
- State equipment programs: some states offer subsidised equipment for low-income seniors. Ask your GP or OT for local options.
We recommend starting with a My Aged Care call to establish your funding pathway before choosing a chair. Our team can also advise on which models work within common Home Care Package budgets. View our electric wheelchair range or call us to talk through the options.