Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
Electric powered wheelchairs can be an excellent assistance for those who have a limited mobility. You can find these chairs at specialized mobility equipment providers and at some major retailers. Medicare and private insurance may cover the cost of an electric wheelchair if a doctor deems it medically required.
The majority of power wheelchairs come with a joystick that users use to direct the motors. The controller, which acts as the brain of the wheelchair, converts these movements into electrical signals.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial aspect to consider when buying wheelchairs. A quality battery can last up to two years if it is regularly used and maintained. The type of battery also determines how far a wheelchair will travel on a single charge.
Most power wheelchairs use deep cycle batteries that are designed to last for a long time and provide a steady energy supply. These batteries can handle multiple recharges and discharges without damaging the cells of the battery. It is crucial to adhere to the manufacturer's recommended charging practices, which typically include overnight charging of the battery and avoiding letting it run completely empty.
Suggested Website is affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, which results in longer battery longevity than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is driven over rough terrain, the motors will have to work harder in order to maintain balance and speed which consumes energy and depletes battery faster.
The age of a battery and its usage patterns can influence its lifespan. It is possible to replace batteries if they are getting old and losing its capacity to hold charge. A newer battery can help decrease the amount of time that a wheelchair has to be charged, and it is more likely to have more capacity than older batteries.
Wheelchair batteries come in various sizes. The most popular are Group 24 and Group 22NF. Group 22NF batteries are lighter and smaller than Group 24 batteries, helping to decrease the overall weight and size of a power wheelchair. However, they have less power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.
It is recommended to avoid charging or undercharging the battery, since this could result in the battery's lifespan. Maintaining the battery in a cool, dry place is also important because exposure to extreme temperatures could negatively impact the battery's functionality.
Weight Capacity
Weight capacity is a key aspect to consider when choosing the right power wheelchair. If the chair is used for long journeys and long trips, then it should be able to support the user's weight. Excessive weight can lead to structural issues, a decrease in battery life, and an increased chance of accidents.
The weight of a power wheelchair varies from model to model, and is affected by the type of battery it is powered by. The weight of a power wheelchair is dependent on the number of accessories as well as the type of accessories, like oxygen tanks holders as well as different seating systems. The batteries make up the bulk of its weight. A single battery can weigh as much as 50 lbs, and most power chairs have two!
The weight of the power wheelchair is also dependent on whether it has a four-pole or two-pole engine. A four-pole power wheelchair is more efficient, and has a greater weight capacity. It will however require more energy and drain the batteries faster than a motor with just two poles.
Power wheelchairs also be equipped with different drive bases, like mid-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. The location of the drive wheels may make a difference in its handling and maneuverability under various conditions. The drive base may offer a range of options, including the swing-away control, which helps with side-transfers, or sip-and-puff controls that operate by blowing on a sensor.
The environment where a power chair is used is a different factor to take into consideration. It is essential that the chair be used on various terrains and can be fitted into rooms and hallways. It is important to measure the doorways and make sure that the chair can pass through them. This includes hinged doors.
A physical therapist and/or mobility specialist can assist in selecting the appropriate power wheelchair for your needs. In addition to assessing the wheelchair's weight, speed and range of travel They can also offer advice 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 regularly.
Seating
Electric wheelchairs are powered by motors to move them, unlike manual wheelchairs. This lets you move more freely and further than a manual wheelchair, but there are a few limitations.
First, you'll need to determine the capacity of your wheelchair's weight. If it's your own personal 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 avoid overtaxing the power chair and causing damage.
Make sure that your chosen power chair includes a comfortable seat as well as an appropriate footplate that you are able to fit into. If you don't have enough space for your feet to rest on the footplate, it could shift your center of gravity forward and cause the wheelchair to lunge.
Also, consider a power wheelchair with tilt and recline functions to decrease the risk of pressure sores. This feature is essential for older people whose skin could be thin and prone to bruises. Additionally, leg rests with power can assist in elevating your legs and lessen swelling.
Like any mechanical device, will need regular maintenance to perform well and safely. You'll have to inspect the battery condition, brakes, tire pressure and other parts of the device frequently. It is also recommended to check the seating for wear and tear and make any adjustments that are needed.
It is also important to pay attention to the location you place your power wheelchair in order to avoid exposing it to extreme weather conditions. The exposure to high temperatures can affect the frame's condition, while exposure to low temperatures could harm the battery as well as other 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 find it does not meet your needs. Manufacturer warranties typically last one to two years and cover the motors, electronics, joysticks and frames but not the seats, back cushions or tires. Ask your supplier about their return policy before you purchase an electric wheelchair. In the first place, go through the user's manual and follow the instructions regarding the use and maintenance of the device.
Operation
Power wheelchairs are driven by a motor inside the power base that is located beneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered either by two 12-volt rechargeable batteries connected in series to produce total voltage of 24 volts. LITH-TECH's lithium batteries are more energy efficient than lead acids and can be used for an extended period of time.
The controller as well as the electronics and power base can be customized to meet the requirements of different users, with numerous options available. Certain chairs offer individual seating that can aid in ensuring a comfortable fit. It also lets the user determine the best position that supports their postural stability. Many models also come with adjustable height of the seat, recline and leg rest positions, and the power tilt feature.
Electric powered wheelchairs can be equipped with a variety of extras. They include oxygen tank holders, elevating chairs and many other power accessories. Some powerchairs can even be customised to let the user control them by using their own brainwaves or nerve signals.
Certain powerchairs be adjusted in 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 can also be equipped with sensors that warn of dangers and obstacles in the area and will then automatically slow down or swerve if necessary.
The location of the drive wheels, whether they're rear-wheels, mid-wheels or front-wheel drives has an enormous impact on the performance of a chair under different conditions. But that's a big topic that we'll save for the next Clinical Corner article.
Before taking your new electric wheelchair for an outing, make sure it's fully charged and the tires have enough air pressure in them. It's also an excellent idea to make some adjustments to the seat, armrests, footrests (if applicable) and joystick to prepare it for first use. Remember that it's important to follow the directions in the manual when operating your wheelchair, particularly when driving up and down slopes. This will minimise the risk of injury, damage and discomfort.