Choosing an Electric Wheelchair For Adults
A motorized electric wheelchair for adults can enhance mobility, and offer freedom and independence to explore new areas. It can also be used for running errands or visiting family and friends.
The chairs can be controlled with keys, joysticks sip and puff or head controls. Modernized features, like an elevating mechanism, could elevate users to reach counters and doors.
Battery Life
Battery performance is crucial for an electric wheelchair. A well-maintained battery can last for up to two years, however when a battery isn't well-maintained can fail much faster than expected. This can affect the lifespan of the entire wheelchair, and can render the wheelchair inoperable until the time a new battery is purchased.
There are many factors that can influence the lifespan of an electric wheelchair battery, including the type of battery used and the frequency of use. A battery that is of better quality will generally have a longer life span and can hold a charge longer than a battery that is less durable. The most important aspect to consider is the amount of usage that a battery gets.
The battery will degrade quicker when you use it regularly. To maximize the lifespan of a battery should read the manual thoroughly, adhere to the manufacturer's charging guidelines and not let the battery reach a zero percent charge.
Users should also ensure that the wheelchair is cleaned regularly and kept in a dry, cool place to avoid damage to the battery and electrical system. A thorough cleaning can also aid in preventing corrosion of the metal connections. The battery should be charged every two weeks to stop it from self-discharge.
Another way to improve the longevity of a battery is replacing it with one that's made of lithium. They are lighter than lead-acid batteries, and they can hold a charge for more hours on a full charge. This can dramatically increase the lifespan of an electric wheelchair, and also allow a user to get more out of their mobility aid.
Capacity for Weight
The weight capacity of an electric wheelchair is a critical aspect to consider when buying one. The maximum weight capacity varies from model to model. A few standard models can support 350 lbs, while bariatric power wheelchairs can support up 500 lbs.
The weight capacity of an electric wheelchair is also dependent on its size, with smaller models typically having lower capacity for weight than larger models. This is because the greater the weight a electric wheelchair puts on its frame the more pressure it puts on the axles and drive wheels which can adversely affect the maneuverability and performance.
The maximum weight capacity of an electric wheelchair may differ based on the drive system. Front-wheel-drive models tend to have lower capacities for weight than middle-wheel-drive or centre-wheel-drive models. The power wheelchair should also be able to fold. This can help with storage and transport and allow it to fit in a trunk or closet.
Traditionally electric wheelchairs were extremely large and heavy pieces of equipment, which makes them difficult to transport without the use of a van or a ramp. The advent of modern materials and technology has allowed manufacturers to create lightweight, compact designs, that can be folded and disassembled for easy storage and transport.
Most electric wheelchairs have a joystick or other controls that can guide them. This lets the user control the speed and direction. This is especially useful for those who do not have the full range of motion needed to operate a manual wheelchair or have difficulty using their hands due to injury, illness or arthritis. Other input devices are also able to be used to control a power wheelchair with head movements, sip and puff scanners (controlled by exhaling or inhaling into the tube), buttons and pedals located on the footrest and controls that can be activated using breath, voice or tongue movements.
Contact us today if are interested in learning more about the benefits of the power chair. We can help you find the right model for your particular requirements and budget. We offer a variety of leasing and financing options, as well as an itemized receipt that you could submit to insurance companies to get reimbursement.
Comfort Level
Comfort is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an electric wheelchair. The user will spend a significant deal of time in the chair, and it is essential that they feel comfortable during the daytime usage. Features like cushioned seating and adjustable footrests can make a huge difference when it comes to levels of comfort.
A portable electric wheelchair should also be easy to store and transport. This is crucial for those who will require transporting the chair. A lot of electric wheelchairs are designed with transportation in mind, and they can be easily folded to make it easy to access vehicles and storage areas. They also often feature lightweight designs that makes them easy to lift and maneuver.
Another thing to consider for those planning on using an electric wheelchair for mobility is the battery. Pick batteries that can last for all day without having to recharge. If you're 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 type of battery, people must consider how their wheelchair will be transported and if they wish to be able to adapt their chair to different types of terrain. The kind of terrain will affect the maneuverability and speed of the wheelchair, and some models are specifically designed with certain kinds of terrain in mind. For instance, certain models are designed for outdoor and indoor use, while others are designed for more rugged terrain.
Not least, users should consider the cost of their wheelchair as well as how they plan to pay for it. The cost of an electric chair could vary greatly depending on the model and the accessories that are selected. Medicare reimburses many electric wheelchairs if they are prescribed by a physician as a medical need. Private insurance is another option for those looking to purchase a mobility device.
Design
designed to assist people with mobility impairments achieve more independence in their daily activities, these wheelchairs feature advanced motor systems to make it easy to maneuver and ergonomic seating that maximizes the comfort. These power wheelchairs could also have sophisticated features, such as obstacles detection and avoidance as well as anti-tip mechanisms.
Powerchairs can be used on a greater variety of terrains than manual wheelchairs since they are equipped with larger, more robust tires and motors. They are therefore ideal for use outdoors. They can also be customised with a range of accessories to suit the user's needs, from different footrests and armrests, to oxygen tank holders as well as other seating options.
The joystick is mounted on the armrest of the powerchair, on the side that the user has the greatest strength. However other input devices, like sip-and-puff systems, are accessible to those who aren't able to use the joystick or have problems with their hands. In lightest electric wheelchair enables users to adjust sensitivity as well as access multiple modes for better control of speed and direction.
Electric wheelchairs for adults are often small and lightweight and easy to transport and store. They can be folded in a matter of seconds and fit into trunks that are as big or bigger than the Honda Civic, Toyota Prius or similar vehicle. This lets you travel, do errands and socialize with friends and engage in hobbies.
Some electric wheelchairs that can be used for adults can be dismantled to make it easier to transport. This allows you to reduce time at the airport by avoiding long lines and allowing them to move through security. This is particularly useful for users who have to visit multiple places in one day or caregivers who must transport their patients from one location to another. The dual motor power chair from LiteRider, for example, can be folded down and disassembled in just three minutes and will fit into the trunk of many vehicles.