Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
An electric powered wheelchair can be very beneficial for individuals with mobility issues. These chairs are available at specialist mobility equipment suppliers and a few major retailers. Medicare and private insurance can cover the cost of an electric wheelchair if a physician deems it medically necessary.
The majority of power wheelchairs have a joystick, which the user can use to control the motors. These actions are converted into electrical signals by a control unit that functions as a brain for the chair.
Battery Life
Battery life is an important aspect to consider when shopping for wheelchairs. A high-quality battery will last for two years with regular use and regular maintenance. The type of battery can also influence the distance a wheelchair can travel on one charge.
Deep cycle batteries are found in the majority of power wheelchairs. They provide a long-lasting energy source. These batteries can handle multiple discharges and recharges without causing damage to battery cells. It is essential to follow the recommended charging guidelines of the manufacturer that typically include charging the battery over the course of a night and avoiding allowing it to run completely empty.
The battery life is also affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth flat surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, resulting in an extended battery longevity than rough terrains. If the wheelchair is driven on rough terrain, the motors need to work harder to maintain balance and speed which takes energy and drains battery faster.
The lifespan of batteries is impacted by its age and usage patterns. If a battery is old and starting to lose its ability to hold the charge, it might be time for a replacement. A newer battery could help decrease the amount of time that a wheelchair has to be charged, and is more likely to have a greater capacity than older batteries.
Wheelchair batteries come in various sizes. The most popular are Group 24 and Group 22NF. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than the Group 24 batteries. This helps to reduce the overall weight and size of a wheelchair. These batteries have a lower power reserve or "juice" than Group 24 batteries.
Avoid overcharging or subcharging the battery as this will shorten its life. It is important to keep the battery in a dry, cool area, since extreme temperatures can impact the battery's performance.
Capacity for Weight
Weight capacity is a key aspect to consider when choosing a power wheelchair. If the chair will be used for long-distance trips, then it must be able to support the user's weight. A heavy weight can cause structural problems, reduced battery life, and an increased chance of accidents.
The weight of a power wheelchair differs from model to, and is affected by the type of batteries it is powered by. The weight of a power chair is also affected by the number of accessories and the kind of accessories, including oxygen tanks holders as well as different seating systems. However, the majority of its weight is derived from the batteries. One battery can weigh up to 50 pounds on its own and a powerchair typically has two batteries!
The weight of a power wheelchair can also be affected by the type of engine it is an engine with four poles or two. A four-pole motor is more efficient and has a higher capacity for weight. 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 rear-wheel or mid-wheel. The position of the wheels can affect the maneuverability and handling of the wheelchair under various conditions. The drive base can also offer a range of options, such as the swing-away control, which helps with side-transfers, or sip-and-puff controls that operate by blowing on the sensor.
Another aspect to consider is the environment where the power wheelchair is employed. It is essential that the chair can be used on various terrains and fit into rooms and hallways. It is essential to measure the doorways, and make sure that the chair is able to fit through them. This includes hinged doors.
A physical therapist or mobility specialist can assist you in choosing the right power chair to meet your needs. In addition to evaluating the weight of the chair, its speed and driving range, they can also advise on other aspects such as accessibility, comfort, and the size of the seat. They will also consider the frequency and duration, and whether the chair will be moved regularly.
Seating
Electric wheelchairs come with motors that move them, unlike manual wheelchairs. This allows you to move more and a greater range than a manual chair, but it comes with some limitations and additional factors that you need to take into consideration.
You'll first need to know the weight capacity of your wheelchair. If it's your own personal weight or the weight of any equipment or supplies you're carrying, you should not exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit to avoid overtaxing the chair and causing damage.
Make sure that the chair you select has a comfortable footplate and a seat that you can fit into. If there isn't enough space for your feet to rest on the footplate, it can shift your center of gravity forward and cause the wheelchair to move.
Look for a power chair that has reclining and tilt functions to minimize the risk of developing pressure sores. This feature is important for older people whose skin could be fragile and easily bruises. Moreover, power leg rests can assist in elevating your legs and reduce swelling.
Like any other mechanical device, will need regular maintenance in order to operate properly and safely. You'll need to check the condition of the battery and tire pressure, brakes and other parts of the device on a regular basis. Also, you should check the seat for wear and make any necessary adjustments.
Be attentive to where you place your power wheelchair in order to avoid exposing it to extreme weather conditions. Exposed to extreme temperatures could degrade the frame, while exposure to low temperatures can damage the battery and other electrical components.
If you don't purchase your wheelchair out-of-pocket, it isn't insured and you won't be able to return it if it doesn't satisfy your requirements. Warranties from manufacturers typically last from one to two years and cover the motors as well as electronics, joysticks, joysticks and frames, but not the back cushions, seats or tires. Check with your supplier for their return policies prior to you purchase an electric wheelchair. The most important thing to do is read the manual thoroughly and follow the directions for maintenance and use.
Operation
The motor of a power wheelchair is located in the power base. This is under the user's seat. The motor is powered either by rechargeable batteries of 12 volts connected in series for an overall voltage of 24 volts. LITH-TECH offers lithium batteries that are more energy efficient than lead acids and can be used for an extended period of time.
There are a variety of options to modify the controller, electronics and power base to meet the needs of each user. indoor electric wheelchairs allow for adjustable seating, which can help to ensure the most comfortable fit. It also allows the user to choose the ideal position that will help their posture. Many chairs come with adjustable features like leg rest, seat height and recline positions, as well power tilt functionality.
There are a myriad of extra features offered for electric powered wheelchairs including oxygen tank holders, elevating seats and a range of power accessories. Some powerchairs can also be customized to allow the user to control them by using their own brainwaves or nerve signals.
Certain powerchairs are able to adjust the speed according to the preferences of the user, or to match other vehicles on the road. For instance, when driving uphill. Some powerchairs have sensors that warn them of obstacles or other potential hazards nearby, and they will automatically slow down and stop when needed.
The position of the drive wheels - whether front-wheel, mid-wheel or rear-wheel drive - has a significant impact on the way the chair performs under different conditions. This is a vast topic, so we'll leave it for a later Clinical Corner.
Before you take your brand new electric wheelchair for the first time, ensure that it's fully charged and the tires have enough air pressure. It's also an excellent idea to make some adjustments to the seat, armrests footrests (if appropriate) and joystick, in order to prepare it for first time use. It's essential to follow the directions in the manual before operating your wheelchair. This is particularly important for driving up and down hills. This will lower the risk of discomfort and injury.