We offer specialized mounting devices and mounting systems for people with disabilities. Choose from a selection of wheelchair mounting systems and attachments to hold adaptive switches, iPads, communicators and more.
For those living with disabilities that affect mobility and grip, tabletops and wheelchairs can be important for holding items. When it comes to accessing anything from an e-reader to a book, a mount can be a useful way to hang onto the item hands-free — and Enabling Devices has a range of options to choose from!
What Are Wheelchair Mounts?
Wheelchair accessories unlock more possibilities by helping those with disabilities hang onto items like:
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices
- Reading materials
- iPads and other tablets
- Phones
- Switches
- Notepaper
- Cups
- Bottles
Wheelchair mounts are an extra set of hands for individuals with mobility issues and other disabilities that can affect grip and movement. Some mounts are designed to hold multiple items and heavy devices to prevent discomfort and fatigue, while others are engineered to provide a secure grip on lighter and more delicate items like iPads. Wheelchair mounts and similar accessories can be secured to most surfaces, such as:
- Tabletops
- Chairs
- Wheelchairs
- Floor stand
- Bedrails
By securing the mount to one of these locations on a tabletop or chair, everything needed can be close at hand!
Types of Wheelchair Mounts and Accessories
There are a range of wheelchair mounts and attachments to meet different needs. This diversity allows the user to focus on using the wheelchair and their device without holding on to it. Some mounts also have adjustable arms.
Arms
As their name suggests, extendable arm systems are flexible solutions that bring items close to the user without them having to move forward. Arms can help place phones near your face for calls or a cup at your lips for a drink. They can position items and hold them steady, making them useful for people with paraplegia, ALS and other conditions that mean moving the body to accommodate a device may not be simple.
Attachments
Wheelchair attachments are useful for helping users grip specific items. Some examples of wheelchair attachments and accessories include:
- Gooseneck tubing
- Easy Flex mounts
- Clamps
- Mounting trays
- Tray adapters
- Mounted switches
- Mountable communicators
- Attendant call systems
These attachments allow you to convert mounts and mounting systems based on individual needs. For example, you can use a gooseneck tubing attachment to position a switch on your wheelchair.
Clamps
Sturdy clamps are vital for mounts because they attach them to a desired surface. Clamps are also important for ensuring your mount can handle the weight of the item. Heavy-duty clamps are ideal for customizing mounts and other wheelchair accessories to a user’s unique needs.
For example, clip clamps let you see devices, photos and reading materials at eye level. They easily attach to a wide range of surfaces like wheelchair trays, bedrails and tabletops.
Mounting Plates
Mounting plates are accessories that hold the item you wish to mount. They are often used for AAC devices or iPads, but they can also hold photos, phones, tablets, e-readers, papers and cards. Mounting plates position and set these items at eye level or another comfortable angle. They can even be used for Eye Talks or icons to help those with speech impairment communicate easily.
Mounts and Mounting Systems
While you can purchase arms, attachments, clamps and plates separately, mounting systems offer everything you need in one package. Mounting systems are engineered to work well together as a unit and attach devices and items to a wheelchair, so you never have to second guess whether you’re buying the right parts. Some wheelchair mounting systems and attachments will let users hold multiple items at once, allowing for virtually hands-free operation.
Individuals can also use one plate for a switch to operate the wheelchair and another to hold their phone, for example. Some systems are even designed to hold a specific item, such as an iPad, to ensure it fits perfectly and sits at the correct angle.
How Do Wheelchair Mounts Help With Special Needs?
Wheelchair mounts offer a second set of hands for those living with disabilities or functional needs (commonly referred to as special needs). The many benefits of wheelchair mounts include:
- Hold items steady
- Prevent damage or breakage to delicate devices
- Foster independence by keeping essential items within reach
- Reduce user discomfort, strain and fatigue
- Provide multiple arms for holding items, allowing the user to focus on operating their wheelchair
- Enhance communication by allowing users to make use of Eye Talks and other communicators
- Help improve positioning and sitting posture
Wheelchair accessories, grips and holders can customize a wheelchair for maximum functionality, providing the user with more comfort by keeping items right where they can see them.
Considerations for Finding the Right Wheelchair Mount
Selecting the right wheelchair mount or accessory is important for maximum comfort and accessibility. Whether you’re looking for wheelchair mounts for yourself or someone else, consider what items need to be mounted and how the user will access the device. For instance, will they specifically need an AAC wheelchair mount for communication, or an iPad for leisure and drawing? The right mount and accessories keep items secured while providing enough flexibility to move them out of place when not in use.
Shop Enabling Devices Today
Browse the full selection at Enabling Devices to see what would be most useful for your wheelchair. You’re also welcome to contact us if you’d like personalized help.
