Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
An electric powered wheelchair is a great option for people who have a limited mobility. You can find these chairs at specialized mobility equipment providers and some major retailers. Medicare and private insurance could cover the cost of an electrical wheelchair if a doctor deems it medically necessary.
Most power wheelchairs come with an electronic joystick, which the user can use to control the motors. The controller, which functions as the brain of the wheelchair, converts these movements into electrical signals.
Battery Life
When you are looking for a new power wheelchair, one of the most important aspects to take into consideration is the battery's lifespan. A good battery can last for up to two years if it is regularly used and maintained. The type of battery can also influence how far a wheelchair can travel on a single charge.
The majority of power wheelchairs utilize deep cycle batteries that are designed to last for a long time and provide a steady energy supply. They can handle numerous recharges and discharges without harming the cells in the battery. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommended charging practices, which typically include overnight charging of the battery and avoiding allowing it to run completely empty.
The battery's life is also affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth flat surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, which results in a longer battery longevity than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is driven over rough or bumpy terrain, the motors have to work harder in order to maintain balance and speed which takes energy and drains batteries faster.
A battery's longevity is also impacted by its age and use patterns. If a battery has become old and starting to lose its capacity to keep an charge, it could be time to replace it. A newer battery can help reduce the amount of time a wheelchair needs to be charged, and it is more likely to have a higher capacity than older batteries.
Wheelchair batteries are available in several sizes that include Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most well-known options. Group 22NF batteries are smaller and lighter than Group 24 batteries, which help to decrease the overall weight and dimensions of the power wheelchair. However, they have a lower power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.
It is important to avoid charging or undercharging your battery, since this could result in the battery's lifespan. It is important to keep the battery in a cool, dry area, since extreme temperatures can affect the battery's performance.
Capacity of Weight
The weight capacity of a power chair is a key factor to take into consideration. If the chair is to be used for long-distance trips the chair must be capable of supporting the weight of the user's body. Overweight can lead to structural issues, a decrease in battery life and a greater chance of causing accidents.
The weight of a power chair varies between models and is influenced by its batteries. The weight of a wheelchair is also affected by the amount of accessories as well as the type of accessories, such as oxygen tanks holders as well as different seating systems. However, the majority of its weight is derived from the batteries. A single battery can weigh up to 50 lbs, and most power chairs have two!
Whether the power wheelchair has two-pole or four-pole motor can also affect its weight. A four-pole motor is more efficient and has a higher capacity of weight. However, it will need more energy from the batteries and could drain faster than a two-pole motor.
Power wheelchairs may also have different drive bases such as rear-wheel or mid-wheel. The position of the wheels can impact its maneuverability and handling in different conditions. The base of the drive may offer a variety of options, such as an adjustable controller that assists in side-transfers as well as sip-and puff controls that operate by blowing into the sensor.
Another consideration is the environment that the power wheelchair will be used. It is crucial that the chair be able to travel across a variety of terrains and fit into hallways and rooms. It is important to measure the doorways, and make sure that the chair can pass through them. This includes hinged doors.
A physical therapist or a mobility specialist can assist you in choosing the best power chair to meet your needs. In addition to evaluating the wheelchair's weight, speed and driving range, they can also advise on other factors such as accessibility, comfort, and the size of the seat. They also take into consideration the frequency and duration of use and whether the chair is likely to be moved frequently.
Seating
Electric wheelchairs have motors to move them, in contrast to manual wheelchairs. This provides you with more mobility and greater mobility than a manual chair but it does have some limitations and other aspects that you need to take into consideration.
In the beginning, you'll need understand the capacity of your new chair. It doesn't matter if it's your own weight or the weight of any equipment or supplies you're carrying, you must never exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit in order to avoid overloading the power chair and creating damage.
Next, make sure your power chair has a comfortable seat and a footplate that you can fit into. If there isn't enough space for your feet to rest on the footplate, it may shift your center of gravity to the back and cause the chair to move.
Look for a power chair with tilt and reclining functions to minimize the risk of developing pressure sores. This feature is particularly important for older people, whose skin can be thin and easily bruise. Furthermore, power leg rests can help raise your legs and decrease swelling.
Like any other mechanical device the wheelchair will require regular maintenance to ensure that it operates efficiently and safely. You'll need to inspect the battery, brakes, tire pressure, and other parts of your device regularly. Also, you should inspect 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 ensure that it is not exposed to extreme weather conditions. Exposed to extreme temperatures could affect the frame's condition, while exposure to low temperatures may damage the battery and other electrical components.
If you don't purchase your wheelchair out-of-pocket, it will not be covered by insurance and you won't be able return it if it doesn't meet your requirements. Manufacturers' warranties usually last between one and two years. They cover joysticks, motors, frames, and electronic components but not back cushions, seats, or tires. Check with your supplier for their return policy before you purchase an electric wheelchair. The most important thing is to read the user manual and follow all the directions regarding the use and maintenance of the device.
Operation
Power wheelchairs are powered by a motor within the base of power, which sits beneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered either by rechargeable batteries that are 12 volts connected in series, for an overall voltage of 24 volts. LITH-TECH offers lithium batteries, which are more efficient than lead acid batteries and can be used for longer periods of time.
The controller electronics, power base and controller can be customized to meet the requirements of different users, with a variety of options available. For instance, some chairs can be customized to ensure a comfy fit and allow the user to find the best position for the stability of their posture. Many models include adjustable features such as leg rest, seat height and recline positions, as well the power tilt feature.
Electric powered wheelchairs can be fitted with a variety of extras. electric wheelchairs for seniors include oxygen tank holders, elevating chairs and an array of power accessories. Some powerchairs can also be customised to allow the user to control them by using their own brainwaves or nerve signals.
Some powerchairs have the ability to adjust the speed according to the preferences of the user, or to be synchronized with other vehicles on the road. For example when driving uphill. They can also be fitted with sensors that can warn of obstacles and other potential hazards in the area, and will automatically slow down or swerve when necessary.
The location of the drive wheels, whether they're rear-wheels, mid-wheels or front-wheel drives have a major impact on how a chair performs under various conditions. However, that's a large issue that we'll keep for another Clinical Corner article.
Before you take your new electric wheelchair out for a spin, check that it's fully charged and the tires have enough air pressure. It's also recommended to make a few adjustments to the seat, armrests, footrests (if necessary) and joystick, to prepare it for first time use. It is essential to follow the instructions in your manual when operating your wheelchair. This is especially important for driving up and down hills. This will reduce the risk of injury, damage and discomfort.