Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
Electric powered wheelchairs can be a great help to people with mobility issues. These chairs are available at specialty mobility equipment suppliers and a few major retailers. Medicare and private insurance can cover the cost of an electric wheelchair if a physician deems it medically necessary.
The majority of power wheelchairs have a joystick, which the user 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 take into consideration is the battery's lifespan. A high-quality battery can last for up to two years with regular usage and proper maintenance. The type of battery also affects how far a wheelchair will travel on a single charge.
Deep cycle batteries are used in the majority of power wheelchairs. They provide a long lasting energy supply. These batteries can handle multiple discharges and recharges without harming the cells of the battery. It is crucial to adhere to the recommended charging practices of the manufacturer. This includes charging the battery over a long period of time and avoiding leaving it running at a complete loss.
The battery life is also affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, leading to a longer battery life than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is used on rocky or bumpy surfaces, the motors will have to be more efficient in order to maintain stability and speed which means that they consume more energy and drains the battery faster.
A battery's longevity is also impacted by the age of the battery and its usage. If handicapped electric wheelchair is old and losing its capacity to hold the charge, it might be time to replace it. A newer battery will cut down on the time required to charge a wheelchair and is likely to have more capacity.
Wheelchair batteries are available in various sizes that include Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most sought-after options. Group 22NF batteries are lighter and smaller than Group 24 batteries, helping in reducing the weight and size of a power wheelchair. These batteries have a lower power reserve or "juice" than Group 24 batteries.
Avoid charging or subcharging the battery, as this can reduce its life. It is important to keep the battery in a cool, dry place, as extreme temperatures can alter the battery's performance.
Capacity for Weight
The capacity to support the weight of a power chair is a key factor to take into account. If the chair is to be used for long-distance trips the chair must be able to support the weight of the user's body. Weight problems can be caused by excessive weight, which can also result in accidents and battery life issues.
The weight of a power chair varies from model to model and is affected by the type of battery it uses. The weight of a power chair is also affected by the amount of accessories as well as the type of accessories, like oxygen tanks holders as well as different seating systems. However, most of its weight comes from the batteries. One battery can weigh as much as 50 pounds on its own and a powerchair usually has two of them!
The weight of the power wheelchair can also be dependent on whether it has either a two-pole or four-pole motor. A four-pole motor is more efficient and has a higher weight capacity. However, it will require more energy from the batteries and could drain faster than a two-pole.
Power wheelchairs could also have different drive bases, such as mid-wheel or rear-wheel. The position of the wheels can impact its handling and maneuverability under various conditions. The drive base may also have a number of other options, including an adjustable controller that assists in side-transfers as well as sip-and puff controls that work by blowing into a sensor.
The environment that a power wheelchair is used is a different consideration. It is crucial that the chair can travel across different terrains and be able to be able to fit into rooms and hallways. It is crucial to measure the doorways and ensure that the chair can easily maneuver through them, including those with hinged doors.
A mobility specialist or physical therapist can help you choose the right power chair to meet your needs. In addition to assessing the weight of the chair, its speed and driving range They can also provide advice on other factors like comfort, accessibility modifications and seat size. They also take into consideration the frequency and duration, and whether the chair will be moved regularly.
Seating
Electric wheelchairs are powered by motors to move them, in contrast to manual wheelchairs. This allows you to move more and greater mobility than a manual one, but it does have some limitations and additional factors that you should consider.
You'll first need to know the weight capacity of your wheelchair. It doesn't matter if it's your own weight or the weight of any equipment or items you're carrying, you should not exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit to prevent overtaxing the power chair and damaging it.
Then, ensure that the power chair you choose has a comfortable seat and a footplate that you can fit comfortably into. If you don't have enough space for your feet to rest on the footplate, it could shift your center of gravity backward and cause the wheelchair to slouch.
Then, you should look for a wheelchair that has tilt and recline functions to reduce the risk of getting pressure sores. This feature is particularly important for older people, whose skin may be thin and easily bruise. Power leg rests are also a great way to elevate your legs, which will reduce swelling.
Like any other mechanical device, your wheelchair will require regular maintenance to ensure that it operates well and safely. You'll need to check the battery, brakes, tire pressure and other components of your wheelchair frequently. You should also inspect the seating for wear and tear and make any necessary adjustments.
It is essential to keep your electric chair in a location which isn't exposed to extreme weather conditions. The frame may be damaged by high temperatures, while low temperatures can cause damage to batteries and electrical components.
If you don't buy your wheelchair from your pocket, you won't be able to get insurance coverage and you wont be able return it if you discover that it doesn't meet your requirements. Warranty warranties from manufacturers usually last between one and two years and cover motors electronic, joysticks, and electronics 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 is to review the user's manual thoroughly and follow the instructions regarding the use and maintenance of the device.
Operation
Power wheelchairs are powered by a motor within the power base, which sits beneath the user's seat. The motor is powered either by two 12-volt rechargeable batteries connected in series to produce total voltage of 24 volts. LITH-TECH offers lithium batteries, that 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 customised to suit the needs of different users, with a variety of options available. For instance, some chairs can be customized to ensure a comfy fit and let the user choose the best position for the stability of their posture. A lot of chairs have adjustable features, such as the height of the seat, leg rest and recline positions, as well the ability to tilt with power.
Electric powered wheelchairs can be equipped with a range of accessories. These include oxygen tank holders, elevating chairs, and a wide range of accessories for power. Certain powerchairs can be customized to allow users to control them using their brainwaves or nerve signals.
Some powerchairs have the ability 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. They are also equipped with sensors that warn of dangers or obstacles in the vicinity and will then automatically slow down or stop in the event of a need.
The location of the drive wheels - whether front-wheel, rear-wheel, or mid-wheel drive - has a big impact on how the chair performs under different conditions. However, that's a large issue that we'll keep for a future Clinical Corner article.
Check that your new electric chair is fully charged and that the tires are inflating to the right pressure prior to taking it for an outing. In preparation for your first time, it's a good idea make some adjustments to your chair, armrests and footrests. It's important to read the instructions in your manual prior to operating your wheelchair. This is especially true when driving on and down hills. This reduces the chance of discomfort and injuries.