Do you need a manual wheelchair or an electrical wheelchair? You will find out more about these two types. More importantly, this post outlines the simple steps you need to follow in order to apply for a wheelchair in South Africa.
Through the Department of Health, you may get an assistive device or wheelchair after following the appropriate protocols. Also, there are agencies who equally provide wheelchairs to people in need. We will equally guide you on how to reach out to these agencies as well. 
About A Wheelchair
Wheelchair is a chair with wheels, employed when walking is challenging or undoable as a result of illness, injury, problems related to old age, or disability.
Types Of Wheelchairs
There are several types of wheelchairs, which are appropriate for various kinds of wheelchair users. Basically, the major reason for the wide variety of types is the different needs of its users. For instance, some wheelchairs are designed to be used for short-term – as in the event of an injury. Also, other wheelchairs are meant to be used for long-term – as in when people are living with a permanent disability.
In the broad sense, two types of wheelchairs exist:
Manual wheelchairs
Manual wheelchairs are types of wheelchairs that are specifically made to be pushed from behind or by the user physically wheeling themselves along. Because they have ultra-lightweight materials and simple designs, which do not require a bulky battery or motor, they can be easily pushed.
Some sub-types of manual wheelchairs include: transit wheelchairs, self-propelled wheelchairs, active-user wheelchairs and passive wheelchairs.
Electric wheelchairs
Electric wheelchairs utilizes a motor to move the wheelchair, mostly by the use of a hand-operated controller – something like a joystick. Electric wheelchairs are heavy-duties. Preferably for people who will not be able to push themselves. Electric wheelchairs also come with push handles as well.
Some sub-types of electric wheelchairs include: transportable, indoor, indoor and outdoor and outdoor only.
How To Apply For An Assistive Device In South Africa
As mentioned earlier, you can apply for an assistive device from the Ministry Of Health. An assistive device is any gadget or technology that people having disabilities can employ to aid them function better. An assistive device may include wheelchairs, walking aids and hearing aids.
First of all, new patients will be referred by the hospital where they will be treated to a rehabilitation professional in order to assess, prescribe and fit their assistive device.
Those who have old disabilities can go to their nearest clinic or community health centre in order to be referred to the rehabilitation service, where the will get their assistive device.
How To Apply For A Wheelchair In South Africa
To apply for a wheelchair in South Africa, go to the nearest Hospital, clinic or community health center. You will then be refered to a rehabilitation professional who will assess and prescribe a wheelchair that fits you.
Contact Information For South African Department Of Health
For any further enquires, call the department of health through 012 395 8000
How To Apply For A Wheelchair From An NGO In South Africa
To apply for a wheelchair from Wheelchair Foundation in South Africa, send an email to [email protected]. You will receive a feedback to continue your application process.