Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
Electric powered wheelchairs can be a great help to people who have a limited mobility. These chairs are available at specialist mobility equipment suppliers and some major retailers. Medicare and private insurance can cover the cost of an electric wheelchair if considered medically necessary by a physician.
The majority of power wheelchairs feature an instrument that the user moves to direct the motors. The controller, which acts 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 factors to consider is the battery's life. A quality battery can last for up to two years if it is regularly used and maintained. The type of battery also affects how far a wheelchair will travel on a single charge.
Deep cycle batteries are utilized in the majority of power wheelchairs. They provide a long lasting energy supply. They can handle a variety of discharges and recharges without causing damage to battery cells. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommended charging practices which usually include charging the battery overnight and avoiding allowing it to run completely empty.
The battery life is affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the chair, leading to longer battery life. If the wheelchair is driven on rough or bumpy terrain, the motors will have to work harder to maintain balance and speed which takes energy and drains batteries faster.
The condition of a battery and its usage patterns can impact its longevity. It is possible to replace a battery if it is becoming old and is losing its ability to keep charge. A newer battery will cut down on the time required to charge a wheelchair and will likely to have more capacity.
Wheelchair batteries are available in various sizes that include Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most sought-after choices. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than the Group 24 batteries. This helps to reduce the overall weight and size of the wheelchair. However, these batteries have less power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.
It is also a good idea to avoid overcharging or undercharging the battery, because this can cause it to shorten its life span. It is crucial to keep the battery in a cool, dry area, since extreme temperatures can alter the functionality of the battery.
Capacity of Weight
The capacity to support the weight of a power chair is an important factor to take into account. If the chair is to be used for long trips it must be capable of supporting the user's body weight. Problems with weight can be caused by excessive weight, which can also lead to problems with battery life and accidents.
The weight of a power wheelchair varies from model to model and is affected by the type of batteries it is powered by. It also is affected by the variety and types of accessories it comes with such as oxygen tank holders and a variety of seating systems. However, the majority of its weight comes from the batteries. One battery can weigh as much as 50 lbs by itself, and a power chair usually has two of them!
The weight of a power wheelchair can also be affected by the type of engine it is either a two-pole or four-pole motor. A four-pole power chair is more efficient, and can carry a greater weight capacity. However, it will require more energy from the batteries, and can drain faster than a two-pole motor.
Power wheelchairs can also have different drive bases, such as mid-wheel or rear-wheel. The location of the wheels can affect its maneuverability and handling in different conditions. The drive base may include a variety of options, including an adjustable swing-away control that assists with side-transfers, or sip-and-puff controls that work by blowing on a sensor.
The setting in which a power wheelchair is used is an additional aspect to consider. It is essential that the chair be used on various terrains and fit into hallways and rooms. It is crucial to measure the doorways, and make sure that the chair is able to fit through them. This includes hinged doors.
A mobility specialist or physical therapist can help you choose the right wheelchair to meet your requirements. In addition to evaluating the weight of the chair, its speed and driving range They can also offer advice on other factors like accessibility, comfort, and the size of the seat. They will also take into account the frequency and duration of use, and whether the chair is transported regularly.
Seating
Electric wheelchairs have motors to move them, in contrast to manual wheelchairs. This allows you to move more freely and further than a manual one, but there are some limitations.
In the beginning, you'll need be aware of the capacity for weight of your new power chair. You should never exceed your power chair's recommended weight limit, regardless of whether it's your own or any other equipment or items that you're carrying.
Next, make sure MyMobilityScooters chosen power chair includes a comfortable seat as well as a footplate that you can fit into. If you don't have enough space for your feet to rest on the footplate, it can shift your center of gravity to the back and cause the chair to move.
Finally, look for a power wheelchair with tilt and recline features to reduce the risk of pressure sores. This feature is essential for older people whose skin could be thin and prone to bruises. Furthermore, power leg rests can assist in elevating your legs and lessen swelling.
Your wheelchair, like every mechanical device, requires regular maintenance to perform well and safely. You'll have to inspect the condition of your battery as well as tire pressure, brakes and other parts of the device frequently. It is also recommended to check the seating for wear and tear and make any necessary adjustments.
It is important to store your power chair in a space that is not exposed to extreme weather conditions. The frame could be damaged by high temperatures, whereas low temperatures can damage electrical components and the battery.
Unless you're buying your wheelchair out-of-pocket the wheelchair will not be insured and you won't be able return it if it doesn't satisfy your needs. Manufacturer warranties typically last between one and two years and cover the motors, electronics, joysticks and frames but not the back cushions, seats or tires. Before buying an electric wheelchair, you should inquire with your provider about the return policy. The most important thing is to go through the user's manual and follow all the directions for using and maintaining the device.
Operation
The motor of a power wheelchair is located in the power base. This is under the user's seat. The motor is powered by two or one rechargeable 12-volt batteries in series, resulting in a total of 24 volts. LITH-TECH offers lithium batteries, which are much more energy efficient than lead acid batteries and can be used for longer durations of time.
The controller electronics, power base and controller can be modified to meet the needs of various users, with a variety of options available. Certain chairs offer adjustable seating, which can aid in ensuring a comfortable fit. It also lets the user find the position that best supports their postural stability. Many models also come with adjustable heights for the seat as well as recline and leg rests, and power tilt functionality.
There are a myriad of extra features available for electric powered wheelchairs such as oxygen tank holders, elevating seats and a range of power accessories. Some powerchairs can also be customised so that the user can control them by using their own brainwaves or nerve signals.
Some powerchairs can also have the capability to adjust their speed to accommodate the user's preference or to match the speed of other vehicles on the road, for instance when climbing hills. Some powerchairs are equipped with sensors that warn them of dangers or obstacles nearby, and they will automatically slow down and turn whenever necessary.
The positioning of the drive wheels - whether they're front-wheel, mid-wheel or rear-wheel drive - can have a huge impact on how the chair performs under different situations. This is a massive topic, so we'll leave it for a future Clinical Corner.
Before you take your brand 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 adjust the seat, armrests footrests (if appropriate) and joystick, in order to prepare it for its first time use. Remember that it's important to follow the manual's instructions for operating your wheelchair, particularly when driving up and down slopes. This reduces the chance of injury and discomfort.