Aspire Socialite Wheelchair
Attendant Propelled | Self Propelled
USER MANUAL
Congratulations and thank you for choosing an Aspire Socialite Wheelchair. This product has been designed to offer the maximum in comfort, safety and lightweight portability. Aspire Socialite Wheelchairs are suitable for indoor and outdoor use. It is important that you read this user manual carefully before using your new wheelchair.
This product features the CE mark, in compliance with the Medical Devices Regulation 2002 (as amended) Class 1, and the Medical Device Regulation 2017/745. This product Features the UKCA mark, in compliance with Part II UK MDR 2002 (as amended) Class 1.
No part of this user manual may be copied, distributed, reproduced, scanned or stored on any electronic database, whether in whole or in part in any form or by any means. Due care has been taken to ensure all the information contained in this user manual is correct at the time of printing. All measurements, pictures, colours and weight capacities are to be used as a guide only. We reserve the right to modify the design or appearance of any product displayed in this user manual without prior notice.
1. Symbols Used In This Manual
The symbols below are used throughout this user manual and on the product to identify warnings and important information. It is very important for you to read them and understand them completely.
- ⚠️ WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous condition/situation. Failure to follow designated procedures can cause either personal injury, component damage or malfunction. On the product, this icon is represented as a black symbol on a white triangle with a black border.
- ∞ ALWAYS!: These actions should be performed as specified. Failure to perform mandatory actions can cause personal injury and/or equipment damage. On the product, this icon is represented as a white infinity symbol on a black dot with a white border.
- ? DO NOT!: These actions are prohibited. These actions should not be performed at any time or in any circumstances. Performing a prohibited action can cause personal injury and/or equipment damage. On the product, this icon is represented as a white symbol with a black circle and black slash.
2. Symbols Used On The Product
The product label includes various symbols:
- CE: CE Mark
- UKCA: UKCA Mark
- MD: Medical Device
- SWL 115KG: Safe Working Load
- Read User Manual: Symbol indicating to consult the user manual
- Caution: General caution symbol
- EC REP: Authorised Representative in EU
- Not Crash Tested: Indicates the wheelchair is not designed for vehicle transport with an occupant.
- MADE IN PRC: Country of Manufacture
Manufacturer and representative details are also provided on the product label.
3. Intended Use
This product is specifically designed for individuals who, due to a wide variety of reasons, have limited mobility or are unable to walk. This product should be used as a tool to assist with mobility or walking difficulties.
Attendant Propelled Wheelchairs are able to be propelled by an attendant using the push handles. This wheelchair is designed for indoor and limited outdoor use on sealed, level terrain (e.g., shopping centres, medical centres, flat footpaths). Anti-tip wheels are suggested for outdoor use.
Self Propelled Wheelchairs are able to be propelled by the user with the self-propelling wheels or by an attendant with the push handles. Usage environments are the same as Attendant Propelled models.
- ⚠️ WARNING: This wheelchair is intended to bear the weight of an occupant through its wheels during propulsion and when stationary. It is NOT designed to be lifted/carried with an occupant in the seat and doing so may cause serious injury or death.
- ⚠️ WARNING: Transportation in a Vehicle This wheelchair is NOT designed or tested to carry an occupant for transportation in a motor vehicle. When travelling in a motor vehicle, the occupant should sit in the vehicle seat with a seatbelt fastened, and the wheelchair should be folded and securely stored in the luggage compartment.
4. Product Description
The Aspire Socialite AP is an attendant propelled, four-wheel wheelchair with a cross-folding frame. Made from lightweight aluminium, it offers great manoeuvrability, stability, and features height-adjustable leg rests for a customised fit. It is equipped with a padded mesh seat and backrest, push handles, 12-inch rear wheels, swing-away leg rests, and padded armrests.
The Aspire Socialite SP is a self-propelled, four-wheel wheelchair with a cross-folding frame. Also made from lightweight aluminium, it provides excellent manoeuvrability and stability, with height-adjustable leg rests. It features a padded mesh seat and backrest, push handles, 22-inch rear wheels, swing-away leg rests, and padded armrests.
5. Warnings
MAXIMUM WEIGHT CAPACITY: 115kg / 18st
- DO NOT exceed the maximum user weight. This limit includes any accessories or personal items carried on the chair. The capacity is defined for typical body shapes; users with dysmorphic shapes or amputees should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
- DO NOT stand on the foot plates; they are not designed for weight bearing and the wheelchair may tip forwards.
- DO NOT use the wheelchair on escalators, even with an attendant.
6. Product Specifications
Specification | Attendant Propelled | Self Propelled |
---|---|---|
Overall Length | 1030 mm / 40.6" | 1030 mm / 40.6" |
Overall Width | 595 mm / 23.4" | 675 mm / 26.6" |
Overall Height | 900 mm / 35.4" | 900 mm / 35.4" |
Seat Depth | 430 mm / 17" | 430 mm / 17" |
Seat Width | 450 mm / 17.7" | 450 mm / 17.7" |
Anterior Seat Height | 475-500 mm / 18.7"-19.7" | 475-500 mm / 18.7"-19.7" |
Posterior Seat Height | 440 mm / 17.3" | 440 mm / 17.3" |
Backrest Height | 410 mm / 16.1" | 410 mm / 16.1" |
Armrest Height | 200 mm / 7.9" | 200 mm / 7.9" |
Safe Working Load | 115 kg / 18 st | 115 kg / 18 st |
Rear Wheel | 12" | 22" |
Folded Dimensions (D x W x H) | 650 x 305 x 740 mm / 25.6" x 12" x 29" | 650 x 380 x 740 mm / 25.6" x 14.9" x 29" |
Chair Weights: AP: 9 kg / 19.8 lbs; SP: 13 kg / 28.7 lbs
7. List of Components
Diagrams illustrate the components of the Aspire Socialite Attendant Propelled and Self Propelled wheelchairs. Key components include:
- 1. 12" Rear Wheels (AP) / 22" Rear Wheels (SP)
- 2. 7" Front Wheels
- 3. Wheel fork
- 4. Attendant Brakes
- 5. Height Adjustable Legrests
- 6. Folding Foot Plates
- 7. Padded Armrests
- 8. Padded Seat Upholstery
- 9. Folding Backrest with Padded Upholstery and Carry Pouch
- 10. Attendant Hand Grips
- 11. Frame Cross Bar
- 12. Legrest Removal Lever
- 13. Folding Backrest Lever
- 14. Seat Angle Adjustment
8. Assembly Instructions
Box Contains: Wheelchair frame with rear wheels, left legrest, right legrest, 4mm and 5mm Allen keys, User Manual. (AP model shown for illustration).
Opening the Carton: Open the carton carefully to avoid damaging the product. Lay the carton on its side, open the top, and slide out the plastic bag containing the wheelchair.
- Place the wheelchair on level ground. Push down on the side rails of the seat until the frame is flat.
- Flip up the backrest until it clicks into place. Ensure fingers are kept clear from the pivoting mechanism.
- Attach the legrests: Insert each legrest into its receiver at a 90° angle. Pull up and hold the hook, then rotate the legrest towards the centre until it clicks. Repeat for the other side.
Removing Legrests: Pull up and hold the hook, swing the legrest outwards until loose, and lift to remove.
9. Preliminary Checks
Before initial use, complete these checks:
- Check that the seating surface is locked into place, creating a flat support surface.
- Check that rear wheels are locked in place.
- Check that rear brakes engage and disengage correctly.
10. General Operations
It is crucial to follow all warnings and guidance in this manual. Key safety measures for users and attendants include:
- Avoid quick direction changes.
- Ensure the wheelchair is used on appropriate surfaces.
- Always have an attendant available to assist.
Lifting the Wheelchair: To fold the chair, reverse the assembly steps (unfold frame, detach legrests). Use the carry handle on the seating surface to lift the wheelchair. ⚠️ WARNING: DO NOT lift the wheelchair with an occupant seated. DO NOT lift by the legrests or armrests; fold up legrests first.
Transporting the Wheelchair: Fold the backrest, seat, and legrests as per lifting instructions to reduce the chair's size for transport in a motor vehicle. ⚠️ WARNING: Aspire Socialite Wheelchairs are not crash-tested and SHOULD NOT be used for transporting a user in a motor vehicle. The occupant must use the vehicle's seat and seatbelt.
Moving Wheelchair Up a Kerb (With Attendant)
1. Position the wheelchair facing the kerb. 2. Attendant pushes down on the rear foot peg to slightly incline the chair (DO NOT tilt using push handles). 3. Once front wheels are on the kerb, push the rear wheels against the kerb to move the chair up.
Moving Wheelchair Down a Kerb (With Attendant)
1. Reverse the wheelchair to the kerb. 2. Attendant checks for obstructions. 3. Attendant slowly lowers the rear wheels onto the road surface, avoiding tipping. 4. Once rear wheels are on the road, slowly lower the front wheels.
⚠️ WARNING: These actions must be performed by an attendant and not the user alone. Follow steps carefully to prevent injury.
Attendant Handbrake Operation
How to Activate Brakes: Squeeze the handbrake lever upwards to engage the brake. Release the lever to go.
How to Lock Brakes: Squeeze the handbrake lever upwards. Press down on the switch until it clicks to lock the brakes. Flip the switch upwards to unlock.
11. Adjusting Your Wheelchair
Adjusting Legrest Height
1. Use a 5mm Allen key to loosen the bolt and remove the centre pin. 2. Adjust the footplate to the desired height. 3. Align the centre pin with the chosen hole and tighten the bolt.
Adjusting Seat Angle
1. Use a 4mm Allen key to loosen the bolt and remove the centre pin. 2. Adjust the castor to the desired seat angle. 3. Align the centre pin with the chosen hole and tighten the bolt.
Removing Legrests
Pull up and hold the hook, swing the legrest outwards until loose, and lift to remove.
12. Optional Accessories
Anti-Tippers (WCA848270)
Tools Required: Wrench (Included).
Installing Anti-Tippers:
- Twist and remove the end cap from both sides.
- Remove the bolt and nut from the tipper. Slide the tipper over the tube. Insert the bolt through the tipper and tube, and secure with the nut using the wrench.
- The anti-tip wheel height is adjustable for improved mobility during carer transportation.
13. Troubleshooting
Issue | Possible Cause & Solution |
---|---|
Wheelchair steering/pulling to one side |
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Wheelchair moving slowly |
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Wheelchair does not turn smoothly |
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Brakes are not working properly | Check distance between tyres and brake foot is sufficient for proper braking force. |
Wheelchair cannot be opened or folded easily |
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Correct adjustment is essential for safe use. For assistance, contact the Aidacare Service Department on 1300 133 120.
14. Care & Maintenance
Maintenance Schedule
Frequency | Action | Serviceable Components |
---|---|---|
Weekly | Check brakes are functioning properly | Wheels & Tyres, Forks, Axles, Armrest receivers, Seat sling, Footrest mounts, Footplates, Armrest Pads |
Periodically | Check for signs of wear on front castors Check for signs of wear on rear tyres | |
Yearly | Service to be completed by authorised Aspire service agent |
Care for Your Chair
- Check tyre condition at least twice per month.
- Check that rear wheel spokes are not loose; loose spokes can reduce rim strength and require adjustment by a qualified technician.
- Always keep rear wheel axles clean and free from dirt and hair.
- Brakes should be checked regularly.
Cleaning Instructions
- Clean the wheelchair regularly with a damp cloth.
- Use a mild washing agent and warm water for excess dirt.
- DO NOT use harsh abrasive or bleach-based agents.
- DO NOT use the wheelchair if damages are found on upholstery.
- Dry with a soft cloth.
If you have doubts about the wheelchair's functioning, contact Aidacare.
15. Warranty
5 Years Warranty (Frame), 1 Year Warranty (Components)
Aspire Vida Wheelchairs come with a 5-year warranty on the frame and a 1-year warranty on components. Keep your purchase invoice as proof of warranty commencement.
The frame and cross frame have a 5-year warranty. Other components (excluding consumables like armrest pads, tyres, castors, upholstery) have a 1-year warranty. Consumables have a 1-year warranty against manufacturer defects only, not wear and tear.
For further information, contact Aidacare.
16. Compliance
This wheelchair range is manufactured in ISO compliant facilities in P.R. China to strict quality control standards. Aspire wheelchairs are manufactured and independently tested to market-relevant compliance standards. Users should familiarise themselves with compliance requirements indicated on the wheelchair labels.
17. Service Maintenance & Customisation
For all enquiries, please contact your local Aidacare branch.
17.1 Spare Parts
Aidacare stocks replacement parts. All replacements should be completed by Aidacare or an authorised Aspire service technician. Parts include tyres, brakes, armrests, footrests, and upholstery. A complete parts list is available upon request.
17.2 Customisation and Modification
Customisation or modifications are considered "custom" changes and may affect safety standards and void the warranty. Consider these implications before proceeding.
18. Recycling Information
Aspire Socialite Wheelchairs are made from metal and plastic components and can be recycled via standard processes.
19. Manufacturer, UK Representative and Importer Details
Manufacturer: Aidacare Pty Ltd, Building 3A, 1 Moorebank Avenue, Moorebank NSW 2170, Australia. Phone: 1300 133 120. Email: product@aidacare.com.au. Website: aidacare.com.au
EU Representative: European Healthcare & Device Solutions (Ireland) Ltd, Stratton House, Bishopstown Road, Cork T12 Y9TC, Ireland. Email: info@europeandevicesolutions.eu
Importer: Aidacare Ltd, Arcadia House, Maritime Walk, Ocean Village, Southampton SO14 3TL, United Kingdom. Phone: 01622 541235. Email: info@aidacare.co.uk
Made in PRC