Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
Electric powered wheelchairs can be a huge help to people who have a limited mobility. These chairs are available at major retailers as well as specialist mobility equipment manufacturers. Medicare and private insurance may pay for an electric wheelchair if determined to be medically necessary by a physician.
Most power wheelchairs come with a joystick, which users can use to control the motors. The controller, acting as the brain of the wheelchair converts these movements into electrical signals.
Battery Life
When shopping for a power wheelchair, one of the most important aspects to consider is battery life. A good battery will last for up to two years if used regularly and maintained properly. The type of battery also affects how far a wheelchair will travel on a single charge.
The majority of power wheelchairs have deep cycle batteries, which are designed to provide a long-lasting power supply. They can handle a variety of recharges and discharges without causing damage battery cells. It is essential to follow the guidelines of the manufacturer for charging. This includes charging the battery over a long period of time and avoiding letting it run completely empty.
The surface on the ground on which the wheelchair is operated also influences the battery's lifespan. Smooth flat surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, leading to longer battery longevity than rough terrains. If the wheelchair is driven on rough terrain, the motors need to work harder in order to maintain balance and speed which takes energy and drains batteries faster.
The lifespan of batteries is affected by the age of the battery and its usage. If a battery is old and is losing its ability to hold an charge, it could be time for a replacement. A newer battery will reduce the amount of time that a wheelchair has to be charged, and it is more likely to have a higher capacity than older batteries.
Wheelchair batteries come in various sizes. The most popular are Group 24 and Group 22NF. Group 22NF batteries are smaller and lighter than Group 24 batteries, which helps to reduce the weight and size of the power wheelchair. These batteries have a smaller power reserve or "juice" than Group 24 batteries.
It is recommended to avoid charging too much or undercharging your battery, because this can result in the battery's lifespan. It is crucial to keep the battery in a cool, dry place, as extreme temperatures can affect the functionality of the battery.
Capacity of Weight
Weight capacity is an important aspect to take into account when selecting the best power wheelchair. If the chair is used for long journeys, then it must be able to support a user's weight. Problems with weight are often caused by excess weight, which can also cause battery life issues and accidents.
The weight of a power chair is different from model to model, and is affected by the type of batteries it is powered by. The weight of a power chair is dependent on the number of accessories as well as the type of accessories, like oxygen tanks holders and different seating systems. The batteries are responsible for the majority of the weight. One battery can weigh as much as 50 pounds on its own and a powerchair typically has two batteries!
The power wheelchair's two-pole or four-pole motor can also have an impact on its weight. A four-pole motor is more efficient and can support a higher capacity for weight. However, it will need more energy from the batteries, and can drain faster than a two-pole.
Power wheelchairs could also come with different drive bases such as rear-wheel or mid-wheel. The location of the drive wheels could make a difference in its maneuverability and handling under various conditions. The base of the drive can include a variety of options, such as a swing-away control that helps with side-transfers and sip-and-puff controls that operate by blowing on the sensor.
The environment that a power wheelchair is used is a different aspect to consider. It's essential that the chair is able to move across different terrains and be able to fit into hallways and rooms. It is crucial to measure the doors and make sure that the chair is able to move through them, including those with hinged doors.
A physical therapist or a mobility specialist can help you choose the best power chair for your needs. In addition to evaluating the weight of the chair, its speed and driving range, they can also advise on other factors like accessibility, comfort, and seat size. They will also look at the frequency and duration, and whether the chair will be moved frequently.
Seating
Unlike manual wheelchairs, electric powered ones come with motors that move them. This allows you to move more easily and farther than a manual wheelchair but there are some limitations.
The first step is to understand the capacity of your new wheelchair. You should never exceed the weight limit of your power chair's recommended limit, regardless of whether it's you or any equipment or supplies that you're carrying.
Then, ensure that the power chair you choose includes a comfortable seat as well as an appropriate footplate that you are able to fit comfortably into. If your feet aren't able to fit onto the footplate of the power chair, your center of gravity could be moved backwards, and the chair will slouch.
Also, consider a power wheelchair that has tilt and recline capabilities to reduce the risk of pressure sores. This feature is especially important for older people, whose skin can be thin and bruise easily. Leg rests with power are an excellent way to raise your legs, which can reduce swelling.
Like all mechanical devices it will require regular maintenance to ensure that it performs efficiently and safely. You'll need to check the battery condition, tire pressure, brakes and other components of the device on a regular basis. You should also inspect the seating for wear and tear, and make any necessary adjustments.
Be attentive to the location you store your power wheelchair to ensure that it is not exposed to extreme weather conditions. The frame can be damaged by high temperatures, and low temperatures can harm the battery and its electrical components.
Unless you're buying the wheelchair out of pocket the wheelchair isn't covered by insurance and you won't be able return it if it doesn't satisfy your requirements. Warranty warranties from manufacturers usually last one to two years and cover the motors electronic, joysticks, and electronics frames but not the cushions on the back, seats or tires. Before buying an electric wheelchair, you should inquire with your supplier about the return policy. The most important thing is to read the manual and follow the instructions regarding use and maintenance.
Operation
Power wheelchairs are driven by a motor inside the base of power that is located beneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered either by rechargeable batteries that are 12 volts connected in series, for an overall voltage of 24 volts. LITH-TECH provides lithium batteries that are more efficient in energy than lead acids and can be used for an extended period of time.
The controller, electronics and power base can be modified to meet the needs of various users, with numerous options available. Some chairs allow for adjustable seating, which can help to ensure an ideal fit. It can also help the user determine the best position that allows them to maintain their postural stability. A lot of chairs have adjustable features such as seat height, leg rest and recline positions, in addition to power tilt functionality.
There are a variety of additional features available for electric powered wheelchairs including oxygen tank holders elevated seats, and a variety of power accessories. Some wheelchairs can be customised to allow the user to control them by using their own brainwaves or nerve signals.
Some powerchairs can also have the capability to adjust their speed to accommodate the individual's preferences or match the speed of other vehicles on the road, such as when driving up hills. mobility wheelchair electric come with sensors that warn them of dangers or obstacles nearby, and will automatically slow down and stop when necessary.
The position of the drive wheels, whether they are rear-wheels, mid-wheels or front-wheel drives have a major influence on how a chair performs under different conditions. This is a huge topic, so we'll leave it to a future Clinical Corner.
Before you take your new electric wheelchair out for an outing, make sure it's fully charged and that the tires have enough air pressure in them. It's also an excellent idea to make a few adjustments to the seat, armrests footrests (if necessary) and joystick, in order to prepare it for its first time use. Remember that it's important to follow the directions in the manual when operating your wheelchair, especially when driving up and down slopes. This reduces the chance of injury, damage, and discomfort.