Choosing the best electric wheelchair (also called a power wheelchair) will be easier once user narrows down the best options. Everyone wants to have the freedom to get around without help. Independence is just around the corner for the user who chooses an electric wheelchair that is customized to his needs.
Help Choosing the Electric Wheelchair Features
When shopping for an electric wheelchair, the user should consider all the available features.Start with these key choices:
- What type of features will be the most comfortable and practical for the user? For example, the seating styles vary from a captain seat to a sling seat. The armrest and leg rests also vary. Armrest can be removable and some leg rests can be pulled up and out. Some wheelchairs will recline to relieve problem pressure areas. Standing power chairs are also for sale. Also, the joystick can be mounted on either side of the chair. Electric wheelchairs can also be ordered with a joystick that is mouth operated.
- What size should the wheelchair be? People come in all sizes, and so do wheelchairs. Will a standard size do or should it be heavy duty? Electric wheelchairs come in small sizes for children and large people up to 700 lbs.
- Should the wheelchair be front wheel, center-wheel or rear wheel drive? There are marked differences between functionality for each design. The user should try each type of drive and decide which one works best for him.
How Will the Electric Wheelchair be Used Every Day
People use their wheelchair differently. Some people are very active and spend a good part of their day out side the home. Others may only need the chair inside the house or office. Consider these questions when choosing an electric wheelchair:
- Will the wheelchair be used indoors, outdoors or both? If it is used indoors, will it fit through the tightest places in the house or office? Measure how much clearance will be needed in hallways, bathrooms and other areas where space may be limited. Measure the wheelchairs diagonal length from corner to corner to determine the widest points.
- How will it be transported and what type of vehicle will it be transported in? Various wheelchair lifts are available for cars, vans and trucks. How much does the chair weight? Some electric wheelchairs break down into smaller parts and some fold.
- How much speed and battery range is needed? The battery range will be affected by several factors. The battery will not last as long if the user goes up hills, ramps, across grass or heavy carpet all day long. Even frequent turns will affect the battery life. The battery range is a crucial feature for an active person. No one wants to get stuck without power in the middle of their busy day. Speed is also important. Speed and range needs will vary from person to person.
The electric wheelchair should meet the users everyday needs. Thinking about the daily routine of the user from morning to night will help in choosing the best electric wheelchair. And if possible, take one for a spin. Talking to other wheelchair users will also help when making the final choice.
Visit New York City, NY or Redondo Beach, CA for a vacation. Both cities have several wheelchair accessible attractions.
Dagmar Barlow - Dawn Barlow is a graduate of UC Riverside majoring in English and education. She worked in the travel industry for several years, taught ...
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