There are several types of wheelchairs including electric wheelchairs or scooters, folding wheelchairs, and rigid frame wheelchairs.
Choosing the right wheelchair is dependent on several factors: 
Will the user be self propelling the chair or will the user be pushed by someone else? If the user will be moving the chair on his own, then a large-wheeled model is required; however, if being pushed, a smaller-wheeled transit chair might be the right choice.
Is the user only in need of a chair for occasional use? For occasional use, a light weight, folding wheel chair may be a good fit. These are excellent chairs for use when going out for the day in a car or for someone who has trouble walking for an extended period of time. The lighter the chair is the better for loading and unloading into a car. Lightweight wheel chairs also called transport chairs, can weigh as little as 19 lbs. and carry up to a 275-pound user.
Will the user be spending quite a bit of time in their wheel chair? For those individuals who will be spending extended hours in a wheelchair, comfort and handling may take precedence. The appropriate chair will offer a more rigid back, seat cushion, foot rests and arm rests. There are also many wheelchair accessories available for those who spend many hours in their chairs. Wheelchair cushions are the most requested item and are used to help improve posture, comfort and prevent pressure sores.
Does the user want a wheelchair for greater freedom and mobility? For those active users who wish to travel solo, grocery shop, spend time out with the family, or get around in their adult community, an electric wheelchair or scooter is the perfect solution. Three-wheeled mobility scooters are usually much lighter in weight compared to the four wheeled version which balance better, especially while taking sharp turns. Power wheel chairs come in many shapes, sizes, and colors.
Many users find that in addition to a wheelchair, a rollator, or walker with wheels, makes an excellent aid to greater freedom and mobility. The choice in using a rolator is as varied as wheelchairs and determining the user’s physical abilities and needs is key when selecting a rolator or walker.
A 4-wheeled rolator comes equipped with hand breaks, a seat and, many times, a basket for storing a purse or other personal items. There are also bariatric rollators which are designed to be extra wide and are able to handle a weight up to 500 pounds.
The process of choosing a wheelchair can be confusing. If you need assistance in making a choice, consult your physician or a occupational therapist who should be able to give you some guidance that would be best for your specific physical and day-to-day requirements.