15 Reasons Not To Ignore Electric Powered Wheelchair
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Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
An electric powered wheelchair can be very beneficial for individuals with mobility issues. They are available at specialist mobility equipment suppliers and at some major retailers. Medicare and private insurance can pay for the cost of an electric wheelchair if it's considered medically necessary by a physician.
The majority of power wheelchairs come with a joystick, which users can use to control the motors. These actions are converted into electrical signals by a control unit that acts like the brain of the chair.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor to consider when buying wheelchairs. A high-quality battery will last for up to two years if it is maintained regularly and is regularly used. The battery type also influences the distance a wheelchair can travel on a single charge.
Deep cycle batteries are found in most power wheelchairs. They offer a long-lasting energy supply. These batteries can handle multiple discharges and recharges without harming the battery cells. It is essential to adhere to the guidelines of the manufacturer for charging. This includes charging the battery over a long period of time, and avoiding the battery from running completely empty.
The surface on which the wheelchair is operated also influences the battery's lifespan. Smooth, level surfaces require less energy to propel the chair, which results in longer battery life. If the wheelchair is driven on rough or bumpy terrain, the motors will have to work harder in order to maintain balance and speed which consumes energy and depletes battery faster.
The condition of a battery and its usage pattern can also impact its longevity. It is possible to replace batteries if they are becoming old and losing its ability to keep charge. A newer battery will decrease the time required to charge a wheelchair and is likely to have more capacity.
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 decrease the overall weight and width of the power wheelchair. These batteries have a smaller power reserve or "juice" than Group 24 batteries.
Avoid charging or subcharging the battery, as this can reduce its life. The battery should be kept in a cool, dry area is also crucial because exposure to extreme temperatures can affect the battery's performance.
Capacity for Weight
Weight capacity is an important aspect to take into account when selecting a power wheelchair. If the chair is to be used for long-distance trips, it will need to be capable of supporting the weight of the user's body. Excessive weight can lead to structural problems, decreased battery life, and an increased risk 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. It also affects the number and types of additional accessories it has like oxygen tank holders and a variety of seating systems. However, most of its weight comes from the batteries. A single battery can weigh as much as 50 lbs, and most power chairs have two!
Whether the power wheelchair has a two-pole motor or four-pole motor could influence the weight of the wheelchair. A four-pole motor is more efficient and has a higher weight capacity. However, it will require more energy from the batteries, and can drain faster than a two-pole motor.
Power wheelchairs could also come with different drive bases such as mid-wheel or rear-wheel. The location of the wheels may affect its maneuverability and handling in various conditions. The drive base may also include a range of options, such as an adjustable controller that assists in side-transfers, and sip-and-puff controllers that work by blowing into a sensor.
The setting where a power chair is used is another factor to take into consideration. It is important that the chair be used on a variety of surfaces and be able to fit into rooms and hallways. It is important to measure the doorways and make sure that the chair is able to pass through them. This includes hinged doors.
A mobility specialist or physical therapist can help you select the best power chair for your requirements. In addition to evaluating the wheelchair's weight, speed and range of travel, they can also advise discount electric wheelchairs on other factors such as comfort, accessibility modifications and the size of the seat. They will also look at the frequency and duration of use and whether the chair is likely to be moved frequently.
Seating
As opposed to manual wheelchairs powered ones come with motors that move them. This gives you more mobility and greater range than a manual chair but it does have some limitations and other aspects to consider.
You'll first need to know the capacity of your wheelchair's weight. Whether it's your personal weight or the weight of any equipment or supplies you're carrying, you should never exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit in order to avoid overloading the chair and causing damage.
Make sure that the power chair you choose has a comfortable footplate and a seat that you can comfortably fit in. If you don't have enough room for your feet to rest on the footplate, it may shift your center of gravity to the back and cause the chair to move.
Also, consider a wheelchair that has tilt and recline features to help reduce the risk of pressure sores. This feature is particularly important for older people, whose skin can be thin and bruise easily. Moreover, power leg rests can help raise your legs and reduce swelling.
Like all mechanical devices, your wheelchair will require regular maintenance to ensure that it operates efficiently and safely. You'll have to check the battery, brakes, tire pressure and other parts of your wheelchair frequently. You should also examine the seat for wear and make any necessary adjustments.
It is crucial to store your power chair in a space that will not expose it to extreme weather conditions. The frame could be damaged by high temperatures, and low temperatures can harm the battery and its electrical components.
If you don't purchase your wheelchair out of your pocket, you won't be able to get insurance coverage, and you won't be able to return it if you discover that it doesn't meet your needs. Manufacturer warranties typically last between one and two years. They include joysticks, motors frames, and electronics but not back cushions, seats or tires. Before purchasing an electric wheelchair, ask your dealer about their return policy. Most importantly, read the user manual and follow all the directions for using and maintaining the device.
Operation
The motor of a power wheelchair is found in the power base. It is located beneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered either by rechargeable batteries that are 12 volts connected in series, for a total voltage of 24 volts. LITH-TECH's lithium batteries are more efficient in energy than lead acids and can be used over longer periods of time.
The controller as well as the electronics and power base can be modified to meet the needs of various users, with numerous options available. Certain chairs permit customizable seating, which will ensure an ideal fit. It also lets the user find the position that best will help their posture. A lot of chairs have adjustable features such as leg rest, seat height and recline positions, as well the power tilt feature.
There are a variety of additional features available for electric powered wheelchairs such as oxygen tank holders, elevating seats and a range of power accessories. Certain powerchairs are customized to allow the user to control them with their brainwaves or nerve signal.
Some powerchairs can also have the capability to adjust their speed to suit the individual's preferences or match the speed of other vehicles on the road, such as when going up hills. Some powerchairs have sensors that warn them of obstacles or other potential hazards nearby, and will automatically slow down and swerve whenever necessary.
The position of the drive wheels, regardless of whether they are mid-wheels, rear-wheels or front-wheel drives has a major impact on the performance of a chair under different conditions. This is a huge issue, so we'll leave it for a later Clinical Corner.
Check that your new electric chair is fully charged and that the tires are at the correct pressure before you take it for an outing. To prepare for the first time it's recommended to make some adjustments to your chair, armrests, and footrests. It is essential to follow the instructions in your manual prior to operating your wheelchair. This is especially important when driving up and down hills. This will reduce the risk of injury, damage or discomfort.