The Step-By -Step Guide To Choosing The Right Electric Wheelchair For Adults
Choosing an Electric Wheelchair For Adults
A motorized electric wheelchair for adults can improve mobility, and provide independence and freedom to explore new areas. It can be used for the errands or visit family and friends and for other purposes.
The chairs can be controlled using a joystick, keypad sip and puff or head controls. Upgraded features like an elevating mechanism can raise users to be able to reach the counters, doors and light switches.
Battery Life
The battery is the main component of an electric wheelchair, and it's essential that it performs well. A battery that is well-maintained can last for up to two years, however a battery that's not properly maintained can degrade much faster than you'd expect. This can affect the lifespan of the wheelchair and render it unusable until the battery is replaced.
The type of battery used and the frequency of use influence the lifespan of the electric wheelchair's battery. A high-quality battery usually has an extended life span and can hold a charge for more hours of use than a less-quality battery. However, the most important factor is the amount of use that a battery endures.
The battery will deteriorate faster when you use it often. To extend the life of a battery should read the instructions thoroughly, adhere to the charging guidelines of the manufacturer and not allow the battery to reach the point of zero percent.
Users must also ensure that the wheelchair is cleaned regularly and kept in a dry, cool place to avoid damage to the electrical system and battery. A thorough clean will also prevent corrosion of the metal connections. Additionally, the battery should be recharged by charging it every other week to ensure it does not self-discharge.
A lithium-based battery can also be utilized to prolong the life of an existing battery. They are lighter than lead-acid batteries, and they are able to hold a charge for more hours when fully charged. This can prolong the life of an electric chair and enable the user to get more benefits from their mobility aid.
Weight Capacity
When you are looking for an electric wheelchair, the weight capacity is a crucial aspect. The maximum weight capacity differs from model to model. Certain models are able to support 350 pounds, while bariatric power wheelchairs can support up 500 lbs.
The maximum capacity for a wheelchair is also influenced by the size of the wheelchair. Smaller models have lower capacities than larger models. This is because the more weight that a electric wheelchair puts on its frame the more pressure it puts on its axles and drive wheels which could negatively impact mobility and performance.
Additionally, the maximum weight capacity of an electric wheelchair may vary based on its drive system, with front-wheel drive models typically have lower capacity than mid-wheel or centre-wheel drive models. The wheelchair must also be able to fold. This can help with storage and transport and permit it to be placed into a closet or trunk.
Traditionally electric wheelchairs were very large and heavy pieces of equipment, making them difficult to transport with the help of a van or a ramp. However, advances in technology and materials have made it possible for manufacturers to design lightweight and compact designs that can be folded or disassembled for ease of transport, handling and storage.
The majority of electric wheelchairs come with a joystick or other controls to guide them. This lets the user regulate speed and direction. This is especially beneficial for those who don't have the full range motion required to operate a wheelchair manually or who have difficulty using their arms due to an injury, illness or arthritis. Other input devices that can be used to control the power wheelchair are head movements sip and puff scanners (controlled by breathing in or exhaling into a tube) and foot pedals, as well as buttons that are located on the footrest, as well as controls activated by breath movement, voice, or the movements of the tongue.
Contact us today if you would like to know more about the advantages of a power chair. We'll help you select the right model to suit your needs and budget. We offer a range of financing and leasing options, and an itemized receipt that you could send to insurance companies to get reimbursement.
Comfort Level
Comfort is a major factor to consider when selecting an electric wheelchair. The user will spend a great amount of time in the chair and it is essential to feel comfortable during their daily usage. Features like the adjustable footrests and padded seating can make all the difference in levels of comfort.
Additionally an electric wheelchair that is portable is a must to transport and store. This is especially crucial for those who require transportation with their chair. My Mobility Scooters are designed for transportation and can fold to make them easier to store and use in vehicles. The lightweight design makes them easy to maneuver and move.
Another consideration for those who are planning on using an electric wheelchair for mobility is the battery. Select a battery that will last a full day without needing to recharge. Also, if you are searching for a battery which is faster to charge there are models with Lithium batteries that charge in just two to six hours.
In addition to the kind of battery, the user should consider how their wheelchair will be transported and if they wish to to adjust their chair to various types of terrain. The kind of terrain will affect the speed and handling of the wheelchair, and certain models are made with specific types of terrain in mind. Some models are suited for indoor and outdoor use, while others are made to withstand more rugged terrain.
Lastly, users should consider the cost of their wheelchair and how they will be paying for it. The cost of an electric wheelchair can vary significantly, depending on the model and accessories chosen. Many electric wheelchairs are eligible to be reimbursed through Medicare provided that the wheelchair is prescribed by a doctor as medically necessary. Private insurance is another option for those looking to purchase an electric mobility device.
Design
Designed to help individuals with mobility issues achieve greater independence in their daily activities, these wheelchairs are equipped with advanced motors to make it easy to maneuver and ergonomic seating that enhances comfort. These power wheelchairs can also include advanced features like obstacle detection and avoidance or anti-tip mechanisms.
Powerchairs can be used on a greater variety of terrains than manual wheelchairs because they have larger, more robust tires and motors. They are therefore suitable for outdoor use. They can also be customized with a variety of accessories that meet the requirements of the user including footrests that are different and armrests, to oxygen tank holders and other special seating options.
The joystick is positioned on the armrest of the chair on the side where the user has the highest strength. However other input devices, including chin controls and sip-and puff systems, are accessible to those who aren't able to operate the joystick or have problems with their hands. In most models the control panel allows users to adjust sensitivity and also access a variety of modes to better control speed and direction.
Electric wheelchairs for adults are usually small and lightweight they are easy to transport and put away. They can be folded in a matter of seconds, and can be tucked into trunks that are larger or bigger than a Honda Civic, Toyota Prius or similar vehicle. This makes it possible to travel, run errands, socialize with friends and engage in hobbies.
Some portable electric wheelchairs for adults also have the ability to be dismantled for easier transportation, which means you can quickly get them through security at the airport and save time waiting in lines. This convenience is especially helpful for those who must go to multiple locations throughout the day, or for caregivers who have to transport their patient from one location to another. LiteRider's dual motor power chair, for example, can be folded and taken down in just three seconds and can be tucked away in the trunk of most vehicles.