Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
Electric powered wheelchairs can be a huge assistance for those with mobility issues. They are available at specialized mobility equipment providers and some major retailers. Medicare and private insurance will cover the cost of an electric wheelchair if determined to be medically necessary by a physician.
Most power wheelchairs come with an electronic joystick, which the user can use to control the motors. These movements are converted into electrical signals by a controller which functions as a brain for the chair.
Battery Life
When looking for a power wheelchair one of the most important aspects to take into consideration is the battery's lifespan. A good battery can last for two years with regular usage and proper maintenance. The type of battery affects how far the wheelchair can travel on a single charge.
Deep cycle batteries are found in the majority of power wheelchairs. They provide a long-lasting energy supply. These batteries can handle multiple recharges and discharges without causing damage to battery cells. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's recommended charging practices which usually include charging the battery overnight and avoiding letting it run completely empty.
The surface on which the wheelchair operates can affect the battery's life. Smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, which results in a longer battery life than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is used on rocky or bumpy surfaces the motors will need to work harder to maintain speed and stability which means that they consume more energy and drains the battery faster.
The lifespan of batteries is affected by its age and usage patterns. It is possible to replace batteries if they are getting old and losing its ability to hold charge. A newer battery will cut down on the time required to charge a wheelchair and will likely to be more powerful.
Wheelchair batteries are available in various sizes, with Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most sought-after options. Group 22NF batteries are lighter and smaller than Group 24 batteries, which help in reducing the weight and dimensions of the power wheelchair. However, these batteries have a lower power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.
It is important to avoid charging or undercharging the battery as this can result in the battery's lifespan. It is important to keep the battery in a dry, cool place, as extreme temperatures can affect the battery's performance.
Capacity of Weight
Weight capacity is a key aspect to consider when choosing a power wheelchair. If the chair is to be used for long-distance trips it must be able to support the user's body weight. Excessive weight can lead to structural problems, decreased battery life, and a higher chance of accidents.
The weight of a power wheelchair is different from model to model and is influenced by the type of batteries it uses. The weight of a power wheelchair is also affected by the amount of accessories and the kind of accessories, like oxygen tanks holders as well as different seating systems. The batteries make up the bulk of its weight. One battery can weigh up to 50 lbs alone, and a power chair usually has two of them!
The weight of a power wheelchair can also be affected by whether it has an engine with four poles or two. A four-pole motor is more efficient and can provide greater weight capacity. It will however require more energy and drain batteries more quickly than a motor with two poles.
Power wheelchairs may also have different drive bases such as rear-wheel or mid-wheel. The location of the wheels can affect the maneuverability and handling of the wheelchair in different conditions. The drive base may also offer a variety of options, including a swing-away controller which aids in side-transfers as well as sip-and puff controls which work by blowing on the sensor.
The setting where a power chair is used is an additional aspect to consider. It is crucial that the chair is able to be used on a variety of terrains and can be fitted into hallways and rooms. It is important to measure the doorways and ensure that the chair will pass through them. This includes hinged doors.
A physical therapist and/or mobility specialist can assist you in choosing the right power wheelchair for the individual. They can provide advice on aspects like comfort, accessibility modifications along with the size, shape, and weight of the wheelchair. They also take into account the frequency and duration of use as well as whether the chair is transported frequently.
Seating
Electric wheelchairs are powered by motors to move them, in contrast to manual wheelchairs. This provides you with more mobility and greater range than a manual chair but it comes with some limitations and other aspects that you should consider.
In the beginning, you'll need know the capacity of your new chair. It doesn't matter if it's your own weight or the weight of any equipment or supplies that you're carrying, it is important to never exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit in order to avoid overloading the chair and damaging it.
Make sure that the power chair you choose has a comfortable seat and a footplate you can fit into. If you don't have enough space for your feet to rest on the footplate, it can shift your center of gravity to the back and cause the chair to move.
Look for a power chair that has reclining and tilt functions to lower the chance of developing pressure sores. This feature is crucial for those who are older, as their skin can be thin and easily bruise. Furthermore, power leg rests can help elevate your legs and decrease swelling.
Like all mechanical devices the wheelchair will require regular maintenance to ensure it functions efficiently and safely. You'll need to examine the condition of the battery and brakes, tire pressure, and other components of the device regularly. Also, you should check the seat for wear and make any adjustments that are needed.
It is also important to pay attention to where you store your power wheelchair so that you don't expose it to extreme weather conditions. Exposure to high temperatures can cause damage to the frame, whereas exposure to low temperatures can cause damage to the battery and other electrical components.
If you don't purchase the wheelchair out of pocket it isn't insured and you won't be able to return it if it doesn't meet your requirements. Manufacturer warranties typically last between one and two years. user-friendly electric wheelchairs cover joysticks, motors, frames, and electronic components, but not back cushions, seats, or tires. Before purchasing an electric wheelchair, ask your dealer about their return policy. The most important thing is to read the user manual and follow all the directions on how to use and maintain the device.
Operation
The motor of the power wheelchair is situated in the power base. This is under the user's seat. The motor is powered by two or one rechargeable 12-volt batteries that are connected in series, for 24 volts total. LITH-TECH offers lithium batteries, which are much more efficient than lead acid batteries and can be used for longer periods of time.
The controller as well as the electronics and power base can be customized to meet the needs of different users, with a variety of options available. Certain chairs permit adjustable seating, which can aid in ensuring an ideal fit. It also lets the user choose the ideal position that allows them to maintain their postural stability. A lot of chairs have adjustable features, such as the height of the seat, leg rest and recline positions, in addition to the ability to tilt with power.
There are a myriad of extra features that are available for electric powered wheelchairs, including oxygen tank holders, elevated seats, and a variety of power accessories. Some wheelchairs can be customized to allow the user to control them with their own brainwaves or nerve signals.
Certain powerchairs be able to adjust their speed to accommodate the user's preference or to match the speed of other vehicles on the road, such as when climbing hills. Some powerchairs are equipped with sensors that warn them of dangers or obstacles nearby, and will automatically slow down and stop when needed.
The position of the drive wheels, whether they are rear-wheels, mid-wheels or front-wheel drives, has significant impact on how a chair performs under various conditions. But, it's a huge subject that we'll leave for another Clinical Corner article.
Before taking your new electric wheelchair for a spin, check that it's fully charged, and that the tires have enough air pressure in them. It's also a good idea to make some adjustments to the armrests, seat, footrests (if applicable) and joystick, to prepare it for its first use. It's essential to follow the directions in your manual when operating your wheelchair. This is particularly important for driving up and down hills. This reduces the chance of discomfort and injuries.