How to prescribe a wheelchair that actually works for your client
Prescribing a wheelchair isn’t just about choosing equipment, it’s critical to your client’s safety, independence, and long-term function. For support coordinators, case managers, and carers, it can be difficult to know what to consider, especially when balancing client needs, funding requirements, and future planning.
When wheelchair prescription isn’t done properly, it can lead to discomfort, reduced independence, and avoidable complications. When it’s done well, it supports safer movement, better positioning, and more effective participation in everyday life.
Why wheelchair prescription matters
A poorly prescribed wheelchair can impact far more than mobility. It can affect posture, limit function, and reduce a client’s ability to engage in daily activities.
A well considered wheelchair prescription can:
Support safe and efficient mobility
Improve posture and positioning
Increase independence in daily activities
Reduce reliance on carers and supports
Enable greater participation in the community
This is why wheelchair prescription should always involve a qualified occupational therapist or physiotherapist with experience in assistive technology.
Start with the person, not the equipment
One of the most common challenges we see is jumping straight to equipment options, rather than understanding the individual first.
Effective wheelchair prescription should always consider:
Physical ability (strength, posture, endurance)
Functional goals (home, community, social participation)
Cognitive or behavioural factors
Home environment and accessibility
Level of support available
Every recommendation should be tailored to how the client lives day-to-day, not just how they move.
Manual vs powered wheelchairs
Choosing between manual and powered options is a key part of wheelchair prescription, and it’s not always straightforward.
Manual wheelchairs may be suitable when:
The client has sufficient upper body strength
Distances are shorter
Support is available if needed
Powered wheelchairs may be more appropriate when:
Fatigue or endurance is a concern
Greater independence is needed in the community
The client has more complex mobility needs
In many cases, trialling both options helps determine what will actually work in real life settings.
Environment and everyday use
A wheelchair might work well in a clinic, but that doesn’t always translate to real life.
It’s important to assess:
Access within the home (doorways, bathrooms, layout)
Outdoor terrain and community environments
Transport requirements (vehicles, hoists, storage)
Day-to-day routines and activities
This ensures the wheelchair supports the client across all environments, not just one.
Funding considerations within the NDIS
Wheelchair prescription is often closely linked to assistive technology funding through the NDIS.
To support successful outcomes, it’s important to:
Align recommendations with the client’s NDIS goals
Provide clear clinical justification
Consider long-term value and durability
Plan for future needs, not just current presentation
Working with an experienced OT can help streamline the process and ensure documentation supports funding approval.
Trialling and ongoing adjustments
Wheelchair prescription should never be a one step process.
Trials are essential to:
Test comfort and usability
Identify any positioning or pressure concerns
Assess performance in real environments
Even after prescription, ongoing adjustments are often required to ensure the best possible fit and function over time.
Need support with a wheelchair prescription for your client?
Contact us today for expert guidance and tailored assistive technology solutions.