Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
An electric powered wheelchair can be very beneficial for those with mobility issues. These chairs are available at specialty mobility equipment suppliers and some major retailers. Medicare and private insurance will pay for an electric wheelchair when it's considered medically necessary by a doctor.
Most power wheelchairs have a joystick that the user uses to direct 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 factors to consider is the battery's life. A high-quality battery can last up to two years with regular usage and regular maintenance. The type of battery can also influence the distance a wheelchair can travel on one charge.
The majority of power wheelchairs utilize deep cycle batteries, which are designed to last for a long time and provide a steady energy supply. They can handle numerous recharges and discharges without causing damage battery cells. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's recommended charging practices which usually include charging the battery overnight and avoiding letting it run completely empty.
The battery life is also affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, resulting in a longer battery life than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is driven on rocky or bumpy surfaces motors will have to work harder to maintain stability and speed, which consumes more energy and drains the battery more quickly.
The lifespan of batteries is affected by its age and use patterns. If a battery is old and is losing its capacity to keep a charge, it may be time for a replacement. A newer battery will reduce the time required to charge a wheelchair and is likely to have more capacity.
Wheelchair batteries are available in several sizes, with Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most sought-after selections. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than Group 24 batteries. This reduces the weight and size of a wheelchair. However, they have lower power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.
It is also a good idea to avoid overcharging or undercharging your battery, since this could result in a decrease in its life span. Keeping the battery in a dry, cool place is also important because exposure to extreme temperatures can negatively impact the battery's functionality.
Capacity of Weight
The weight capacity is an important factor to consider when choosing the right power wheelchair. If the chair is going to be used for long-distance trips, then it must be able to support a user's weight. A heavy weight can cause structural problems, decreased battery life and a greater chance of causing accidents.
The weight of a power chair varies from model to model and is influenced by the type of batteries it uses. It is also impacted by the variety and types of accessories it has, such as oxygen tank holders and various seating systems. However, most of its weight comes from the batteries. One battery can weigh as much as 50 pounds on its own, and a power chair typically has two batteries!
Whether the power wheelchair has two-pole or four-pole motor could have an impact on the weight of the wheelchair. A four-pole motor is more efficient and can support more weight capacity. However, it will need more energy from the batteries, and can drain faster than a two-pole.
Power wheelchairs may also have different drive bases such as rear-wheel or mid-wheel. The location of the drive wheels could influence its maneuverability and handling in a variety of conditions. The base of the drive may have a number of other options, such as a swing-away controller which aids in side-transfers, and sip-and-puff controllers that operate by blowing into a sensor.
Another aspect to consider is the environment where the power wheelchair will be employed. It's essential that the chair be able to travel across different terrains and be able to be able to fit into rooms and hallways. MyMobilityScooters is essential to measure the doors and ensure that the chair is able to move through them, including those with hinged doors.
A physical therapist and/or mobility specialist can assist in selecting the best power wheelchair for the individual. They can advise on factors like comfort, accessibility modifications as well as the size of the seat and the weight of the chair. They will also consider the frequency and duration of use and whether the chair will be moved frequently.
Seating
Unlike manual wheelchairs, electric powered ones come with motors that move them. This lets you move more freely and farther than a manual wheelchair, however, there are a few limitations.
First, you'll need to determine the capacity of your wheelchair's weight. Whether it's your personal weight or the weight of any equipment or items that you're carrying, it is important to never exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit to prevent overtaxing the chair and causing damage.
Then, ensure that your chosen power chair includes a comfortable seat as well as a footplate that you can fit comfortably into. If you don't have enough space for your feet to rest on the footplate, it may shift your center of gravity forward and cause the wheelchair to lunge.
Also, consider a power wheelchair that has tilt and recline capabilities to help reduce the risk of getting pressure sores. This feature is crucial for seniors whose skin can be fragile and easily bruises. Leg rests that are powered are an excellent method of elevating your legs, which will reduce swelling.
Your wheelchair, like every mechanical device, will need regular maintenance to function properly and safely. You'll have to inspect the condition of your battery as well as brakes, tire pressure, and other components of the device frequently. Also, you should inspect the seating for wear and tear and make any necessary adjustments.
It is essential to keep your electric chair in a place that will not expose it to extreme weather conditions. Exposed to extreme temperatures could degrade the frame, while exposure to low temperatures may harm the battery as well as other electrical components.
If you don't buy your wheelchair from the your pocket, there won't be insurance coverage and you wont be able to return it should you discover it doesn't meet your requirements. Manufacturers' warranties typically last between one and two years. They include joysticks, motors frames, and electronic components but not back cushions, seats or tires. Before purchasing an electric wheelchair, you should inquire with your dealer about their return policy. Most importantly, go through the user's manual and follow all instructions for using and maintaining the device.
Operation
Power wheelchairs are driven by a motor within the base of power that is located beneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered by two or one rechargeable 12-volt batteries in series, giving a total of 24 volts. LITH-TECH's lithium batteries are more efficient in energy than lead acids and can be used over a longer period of time.
The controller electronics, power base and controller can be customized to meet the needs of various users, with many options available. For instance, some chairs offer customizable seating to ensure a comfy fit and let the user choose a position that best supports the stability of their posture. Many chairs come with adjustable features such as the height of the seat, leg rest and recline positions, as well the ability to tilt with power.
Electric powered wheelchairs can be fitted with a range of accessories. They include oxygen tank holders, elevating chairs and an array of accessories for power. Some powerchairs can even be customised to allow the user to control them using their own brainwaves or nerve signals.
Some powerchairs can also be able to adjust their speed to accommodate the preferences of the user or to match the speed of other vehicles on the road, for example when going up hills. They can also be equipped with sensors that can warn of obstacles and other potential hazards in the vicinity, and will automatically slow down or stop when necessary.
The location of the drive wheels - whether they are rear-wheel, mid-wheel or front-wheel drive - has a significant impact on the way the chair performs under various situations. But that's a big subject that we'll leave for the next Clinical Corner article.
Check that your brand new electric chair is fully charged and the tires are inflated to the right pressure before you take it for an outing. It's also a good idea to adjust the seat, armrests footrests (if necessary) and joystick to prepare it for first time use. It's important to read the instructions in your manual when operating your wheelchair. This is especially true for driving up and down hills. This will minimise the chance of injury, damage and discomfort.