Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
Electric powered wheelchairs can be a huge assistance for those with mobility issues. These chairs are available at major retailers as well as specialist mobility equipment suppliers. Medicare and private insurance can cover the cost of an electric wheelchair when it's considered medically necessary by a physician.
Most power wheelchairs have an instrument that the user uses to control the motors. These actions are converted into electrical signals by a control unit that functions as a brain for the chair.
Battery Life
When you are looking for a new power wheelchair, one of the most important factors to take into consideration is the battery's lifespan. A quality battery can last for up to two years if it is regularly used and maintained. The battery type also influences the distance that wheelchairs can travel on one charge.
Most power wheelchairs use deep cycle batteries that are designed to provide a long-lasting power supply. They can handle a variety of discharges and recharges without causing damage to the battery cells. It is crucial to follow the guidelines of the manufacturer for charging. This includes charging the battery over a long period of time and not the battery from running completely empty.
The battery life is also affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, resulting in longer battery life than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is used on rocky or bumpy surfaces, the motors will have to work harder to maintain stability and speed and this consumes more energy and drains the battery faster.
The age of a battery as well as its usage patterns can impact its longevity. If a battery has become old and starting to lose its ability to hold an charge, it could be time to replace it. A newer battery could help reduce the time that a wheelchair has to be charged, and is more likely to have more capacity than older batteries.
Wheelchair batteries come in various sizes. The most popular are Group 24 and Group 22NF. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than the Group 24 batteries. This helps to reduce the overall weight and size of a wheelchair. However, they have less power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.
Avoid overcharging or subcharging the battery as it will reduce its lifespan. Maintaining the battery in a dry, cool location is also essential because exposure to extreme temperatures can negatively impact the battery's functionality.
Capacity for Weight
The weight capacity of a power chair is a crucial aspect to take into account. If the chair is intended to be used for long-distance trips it must be able to support the weight of the person. Weight issues are often caused by excess weight, which could lead to battery life issues and accidents.
The weight of a power wheelchair differs from one model to the next and is affected by the batteries it uses. The weight of a wheelchair is also affected by the amount of accessories and the kind of accessories, like oxygen tanks holders and different seating systems. The batteries are responsible for the majority of the weight. One battery can weigh up to 50 lbs by itself and a power chair usually has two of them!
The power wheelchair's a two-pole motor or four-pole motor will also influence the weight of the wheelchair. A four-pole power wheelchair is more efficient and it can support a greater weight capacity. However, it requires more energy from the batteries and could drain faster than a two-pole.
Power wheelchairs may also be equipped with different drive bases, like mid-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. The position of the wheels may affect the maneuverability and handling of the wheelchair under various conditions. The base of the drive could have a number of other options, like a swing-away controller that aids in side-transfers as well as sip-and puff controls that operate by blowing into the sensor.
The setting in which a power wheelchair is used is an additional aspect to consider. It's essential that the chair can travel across different terrains and be able to be able to fit into rooms and hallways. It is important to measure the doorways and make sure that the chair is able to fit through them. This includes hinged doors.
A physical therapist or mobility specialist can help you select the best power chair to meet your requirements. They can advise on factors like comfort, accessibility modifications along with the size, shape, and weight of the wheelchair. They also consider the frequency and duration of use and whether the chair will be transported frequently.
Seating
In contrast to manual wheelchairs, electric powered ones are powered by motors that move them. My Mobility Scooters allows you to move more and greater range than a manual chair however, it has certain limitations and other factors to consider.
In the beginning, you'll need understand the weight capacity of your new wheelchair. You shouldn't exceed your power chair's recommended weight limit, regardless of whether it's your own or any equipment or supplies that you're carrying.
Make sure that the chair you select has a comfortable footplate and an appropriate seat to comfortably fit in. If there isn't enough space for your feet to rest on the footplate, it can shift your center of gravity backward and cause the chair to move.
Look for a power chair that has tilt and reclining functions to minimize the risk of developing pressure sores. This feature is particularly important for seniors, whose skin may be thin and bruise easily. Moreover, power leg rests can assist in elevating your legs and decrease swelling.
Like all mechanical devices the wheelchair will require regular maintenance to ensure that it performs efficiently and safely. You'll have to check the battery, brakes, tire pressure, and other parts of your device regularly. Also, you should check the seating for wear, and make any adjustments that are needed.
It is important to keep your electric chair in a space which isn't exposed to extreme weather conditions. The frame can be damaged by high temperatures, and low temperatures can harm batteries and electrical components.
If you don't purchase your wheelchair from the your pocket, you won't be able to get insurance coverage and won't be able to return it if you discover it doesn't meet your needs. Warranties from manufacturers typically last from one to two years and cover the motors as well as electronics, joysticks, joysticks and frames, but not the cushions on the back, seats or tires. Ask your supplier about their return policies before you purchase an electric wheelchair. The most important thing to do is read the manual and follow the directions regarding use and maintenance.
Operation
Power wheelchairs are driven by a motor inside the power base that sits under the user's seat. The motor is powered by two or one rechargeable 12-volt batteries in series, for 24 volts in total. LITH-TECH offers lithium batteries that are more energy efficient than lead acids and can be used over longer periods of time.
Many options are available to modify the controller, electronics and power base to meet the specific needs of every user. For example, some chairs offer customizable seating to ensure a comfortable fit and allow the user to find the best position for the stability of their posture. Many models also come with adjustable seat height, recline and leg rests, as well as the power tilt feature.
There are a variety of additional features available for electric powered wheelchairs such as oxygen tank holders, elevating seats and a range of power accessories. Certain powerchairs can be customized to allow users to control them with their brainwaves or nerve signal.
Some powerchairs are able to adjust the speed to the preferences of the user or to be synchronized with other vehicles on the road. For instance, when driving uphill. Some powerchairs have sensors that alert them to obstacles or other potential hazards nearby, and will automatically slow down and stop when needed.
The position of the drive wheels - whether they are rear-wheel, mid-wheel or front-wheel drive - has a significant impact on the way a chair performs in different situations. However, that's a large subject that we'll leave for a future Clinical Corner article.
Before you take your new electric wheelchair for an outing, make sure it's fully charged, and that the tires have enough air pressure. To prepare for the first time it's best to make some adjustments to your chair, armrests, and footrests. Be sure to follow the manual's instructions for operating your wheelchair, especially when driving on and down slopes. This will reduce the risk of injury and discomfort.