Stability and balance, Warning – Invacare 9000 Topaz User Manual

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3 SAFETY

Stability and Balance

To assure stability and proper operation of your wheelchair, you must at all times wear your seat positioning strap and maintain proper balance. Your

wheelchair has been designed to remain upright and stable during normal daily activities as long as you do not move beyond the center of gravity.
Virtually all activities which involve movement in the wheelchair have an effect on the center of gravity. Invacare recommends using seat/chest

positioning straps for additional safety while involved in activities that shift your weight.
DO NOT lean forward out of the wheelchair any further than the length of the armrests. Make sure the casters are pointing in the forward position

whenever you lean forward. This can be achieved by advancing the wheelchair and then reversing it in a straight line.
Many activities require the wheelchair user to reach, bend and transfer in and out of the wheelchair. These movements will cause a change to normal

balance, center of gravity, and weight distribution of the wheelchair.
To determine and establish your particular safety limits, practice bending, reaching and transferring activities in several combinations in the presence

of a qualified healthcare professional before attempting active use of the wheelchair.
Proper positioning is essential for your safety. When reaching, leaning, bending forward, it is important to use the front casters as a tool to maintain

stability and balance.

WARNING

Be aware that carrying heavy objects on your lap while occupying the wheelchair may adversely affect the stability of the
wheelchair, resulting in serious bodily injury to the user, damage to the wheelchair and surrounding property.
This wheelchair has been designed to accommodate one individual. If more than one individual occupies the wheelchair this
may adversely affect the stability of the wheelchair, resulting in serious bodily injury to the user and passenger and damage
to the wheelchair and surrounding property.