Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
Electric powered wheelchairs can be an excellent aid to those with limited mobility. These chairs are sold at major stores and specialist mobility equipment suppliers. Medicare and private insurance can pay for an electric wheelchair if it's considered medically necessary by a doctor.
Most power wheelchairs have an instrument that the user uses to direct the motors. These movements are converted to electrical signals by a controller that acts like the brain of the chair.
Battery Life
When looking for a power wheelchair one of the most important factors to consider is battery life. A good battery can last up to two years if used regularly and maintained properly. The type of battery also affects the distance the wheelchair can be able to travel on one 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 to battery cells. It is crucial to adhere to the manufacturer's recommended charging practices that typically include charging the battery over the course of a night 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 energy to propel the chair, which results in longer battery life. If the wheelchair is driven on rocky or bumpy terrain, the motors have to work harder to maintain balance and speed which consumes energy and drains battery faster.
The lifespan of batteries is affected by the age of the battery and its usage. It could be time to replace batteries if they are getting old and is losing its ability to keep charge. A newer battery will decrease the time it takes to charge a wheelchair and will likely to have more capacity.
Wheelchair batteries are available in various sizes that include Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most popular options. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than Group 24 batteries. This reduces the overall weight and size of a wheelchair. However, these batteries have a lower power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.
Avoid overcharging or subcharging the battery, as this can reduce its lifespan. Maintaining the battery in a cool, dry location is also essential, as exposure to extreme temperatures could affect the battery's performance.
Weight Capacity
Weight capacity is a key aspect to consider when choosing the best power wheelchair. If the chair is used for long-distance trips, then it must be able to support a user's weight. Weight issues can be caused by excessive weight, which can also cause problems with battery life and accidents.
The weight of a power chair varies between models and is affected by the batteries it uses. The weight of a wheelchair is dependent on the number of accessories and the type of accessories, like oxygen tanks holders and various seating systems. However, most of its weight is derived from the batteries. One battery can weigh up to 50 lbs alone, and a power chair typically has two batteries!
The weight of a power wheelchair can be dependent on whether it has an engine with four poles or two. A four-pole power chair is more efficient and has a greater weight capacity. It will however require more energy and drain batteries more quickly than a motor that has two poles.
Power wheelchairs may also have different drive bases, such as mid-wheel or rear-wheel. The position of the wheels can affect its handling and maneuverability in different conditions. The base of the drive may offer a variety of options, including a swing-away controller which aids in side-transfers as well as sip-and puff controls that operate by blowing into a sensor.
Another consideration is the environment in which the power wheelchair will be utilized. It is crucial that the chair be used on a variety of terrains and fit into hallways and rooms. It is essential to measure the doors and make sure that the chair can move through them, including those with hinged doors.
A physical therapist or mobility specialist can help you select the right wheelchair to meet your needs. In addition to evaluating the weight of the chair, its speed and range of travel They can also provide advice on other factors such as comfort, accessibility modifications and seat size. They will also consider the frequency and duration and whether the chair will be moved frequently.
Seating
In contrast to manual wheelchairs, electric powered ones come with motors that move them. This gives you more mobility and greater range than a manual chair however, it has some limitations and other aspects to consider.
It is important to understand the capacity of your wheelchair's weight. It doesn't matter if it's your own weight or the weight of any equipment or items that you're carrying, it is important to not exceed the manufacturer's suggested weight limit to prevent overtaxing the power chair and creating damage.
Make sure that the chair you select has a comfortable footplate and an armchair that you can fit in. If your feet don't fit into the footplate of the power chair, your center gravity can be moved backwards, and the wheelchair may swivel.
Look for a power chair that has tilt and reclining functions to minimize the risk of developing pressure sores. This feature is crucial for seniors whose skin can be thin and prone to bruises. Furthermore, power leg rests can help raise your legs and lessen swelling.
Like all mechanical devices it will require maintenance to ensure it functions well and safely. You'll have to inspect the condition of your battery, tire pressure, brakes and other components of the device regularly. You should also inspect the seating for wear and tear, and make any necessary adjustments.
It is crucial to store your power chair in a location which isn't exposed to extreme weather conditions. Exposure to high temperatures can degrade the frame, while exposure to low temperatures can harm the battery as well as other electrical components.
Unless you're buying your wheelchair from a private source it won't be insured and you won't have the option to return it if it's not meeting your needs. Manufacturers' warranties usually last between one and two years. They include joysticks, motors frames, and electronic components, but not seats, back cushions, or tires. Before purchasing an electric wheelchair, inquire with your provider about the return policy. The most important thing is to go through the user's manual and follow the instructions for using and maintaining the device.
Operation
The motor of a power wheelchair is located in the power base. It is situated underneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered by two or one rechargeable 12-volt batteries in series, for 24 volts total. LITH-TECH's lithium batteries are more energy efficient than lead acids and can be used for longer periods of time.
There are wheelchair electric wheelchair of options for customizing the controller, electronics and power base to meet the needs of every user. Some chairs allow for adjustable seating, which will ensure the most comfortable fit. It also lets the user find the position that best allows them to maintain their postural stability. A lot of models also have adjustable heights for the seat, recline and leg rest positions and the ability to tilt with power.
There are a variety of additional features offered for electric powered wheelchairs, including oxygen tank holders, elevating seats and a range of power accessories. Some powerchairs can also be customized to allow the user to control them using their own brainwaves or nerve signals.
Certain powerchairs be able to adjust their speed to suit the preferences of the user or to match the speed of other vehicles on the road, for instance when climbing hills. They are also equipped with sensors that warn of dangers and obstacles in the vicinity and will then automatically slow down or swerve in the event of a need.
The positioning of the drive wheels - whether rear-wheel, mid-wheel or front-wheel drive - has a big impact on how the chair performs under different situations. But that's a big topic that we'll save for a future Clinical Corner article.
Check that your brand new electric chair is fully charged and that the tires are at the correct pressure prior to going for a spin. To prepare for the first time it's best to make some adjustments to your chair, armrests, and footrests. It's essential to follow the directions in your manual prior to operating your wheelchair. This is particularly important when driving on and down hills. This will reduce the risk of injury, damage or discomfort.