15 Reasons You Shouldn't Ignore Electric Powered Wheelchair
Wiki Article
Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
An electric powered wheelchair can be very beneficial for those who have a limited mobility. They are available at major stores and specialist mobility equipment manufacturers. Medicare and private insurance could cover the cost of an electrical wheelchair if a doctor considers it medically necessary.
Most power wheelchairs come with a joystick that 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
Battery life is an important aspect to take into consideration when shopping for wheelchairs. A good battery can last for up to two years with regular use and proper maintenance. The battery type also influences how far a wheelchair can travel on a single charge.
Deep cycle batteries are found in the majority of power wheelchairs. They provide a long-lasting energy supply. They can handle a variety of recharges and discharges without causing damage battery cells. It is essential to follow the recommended charging practices of the manufacturer. This includes charging the battery over a long period of time, and avoiding the battery from running completely empty.
The surface on the ground on which the wheelchair is operated also influences the battery's lifespan. Smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, which results in an extended battery life than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is driven over rocky or bumpy terrain, the motors have to work harder in order to maintain balance and speed, which consumes energy and drains batteries faster.
The age of a battery as well as its usage pattern can also impact its longevity. If a battery is getting old and is losing its capacity to keep a charge, it may be time to replace it. A newer battery will reduce the time it takes to charge a wheelchair and will likely to be more powerful.
Wheelchair batteries are available in various sizes. The most popular are Group 24 and Group 22NF. Group 22NF batteries are smaller and lighter than Group 24 batteries, which help to decrease the overall weight and size of a power wheelchair. They have a smaller power reserve or "juice" than Group 24 batteries.
It is important to avoid charging or undercharging your battery, since this could result in a decrease in its life span. Keeping the battery in a cool, dry location is also essential because exposure to extreme temperatures could adversely affect the battery's function.
Weight Capacity
The weight capacity is an important aspect to take into account when selecting the right power wheelchair. If the chair is intended to be used for long-distance trips it must be able to support the weight of the person. Problems with weight can result from excessive weight, which can also lead to accidents and battery life issues.
A power wheelchair's weight varies from model to model and is influenced by the type of batteries it is powered by. It also is affected by the number and types of accessories it has, such as oxygen tank holders and various seating systems. However, the majority of its weight comes from the batteries. One battery can weigh as much as 50 pounds on its own and a powerchair usually has two of them!
The weight of the power wheelchair is also dependent on whether it has either a two-pole or four-pole motor. A four-pole motor is more efficient and can provide greater capacity for weight. However, it requires more energy from the batteries and could 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 can influence its maneuverability and handling under various conditions. The base of the drive may offer a variety of options, like a swing-away controller that aids in side-transfers and sip-and-puff controls that work by blowing into a sensor.
Another factor to consider is the setting where the power wheelchair will be used. It is crucial that the chair is able to be used on a variety of terrains and can be fitted into rooms and hallways. It is crucial to measure the doorways and ensure that the chair will fit through them. This includes hinged doors.
A physical therapist and/or mobility specialist can assist you in choosing the best power wheelchair for the person. In addition to assessing the wheelchair's weight, speed and range of travel They can also provide advice on other factors like accessibility, comfort, and seat size. They also consider the frequency and duration of use, and whether the chair will be frequently chairs electric transported.
Seating
Unlike manual wheelchairs, electric powered ones come with motors that move them. This gives you more mobility and greater mobility than a manual chair, but it comes with certain limitations and other factors that you need to take into consideration.
You'll first need to know the weight capacity of your wheelchair. Whether it's your personal weight or the weight of any equipment or items that you're carrying, it is important to not exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit to avoid overtaxing the power chair and damaging it.
Then, ensure that your power chair has a comfortable seat and an appropriate footplate that you are able to fit comfortably into. If you don't have enough room 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 features to decrease the risk of pressure sores. This feature is crucial for older people, whose skin may be thin and easily bruise. Leg rests that are powered are an excellent way to raise your legs, which could reduce swelling.
As with any mechanical device the wheelchair will require regular maintenance to ensure that it performs efficiently and safely. You'll need to check the battery and brakes, tire pressure, and other parts of your device frequently. It is also recommended to check the seating for wear and tear, and make any adjustments that are needed.
It is also important to pay attention to where you keep your power wheelchair to ensure that it is not exposed to extreme weather conditions. Exposed to extreme temperatures could cause damage to the frame, whereas exposure to low temperatures may damage the battery and other electrical components.
Unless you're buying your wheelchair from a private source it will not be covered by insurance and you won't be able return it if it doesn't meet your needs. Manufacturers' warranties typically last between one and two years. They cover motors, joysticks, frames, and electronic components, but not seats, back cushions or tires. Check with your supplier for their return policy before you purchase an electric wheelchair. Most importantly, go through the user's manual and follow all the directions regarding the use and maintenance of the device.
Operation
Power wheelchairs are powered by a motor inside the base of power that is located beneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered by rechargeable batteries of 12 volts connected in series to produce total voltage of 24 volts. LITH-TECH offers lithium batteries that are more energy efficient than lead acids and can be used over an extended period of time.
Many options are available to modify the controller, electronics and power base to meet the specific needs of each user. For instance, some chairs offer customizable seating to ensure a comfortable fit and let the user choose a position that best supports the stability of their posture. Many models also include adjustable height of the seat as well as recline and leg rests, and the power tilt feature.
There are a myriad of extra features offered for electric powered wheelchairs, including oxygen tank holders, elevating seats, and a variety of power accessories. Some wheelchairs can be customised to let the user control them with their own brainwaves or nerve signals.
Certain powerchairs have the capability to adjust their speed to accommodate the preferences of the user or to match the speed of other vehicles on the road, for instance when driving up hills. They are also equipped with sensors that warn of dangers or obstacles in the area and automatically slow down or stop if necessary.
The positioning of the drive wheels - whether they are front-wheel, rear-wheel, or mid-wheel drive - has a significant impact on the way a chair performs in different situations. This is a huge topic, so we'll leave it to a future Clinical Corner.
Check that your new electric chair is fully charged and the tires are inflating to the correct pressure prior to going for a spin. To prepare for the first time it's recommended to make some adjustments to your chair, armrests, and footrests. Be sure to follow the manual's instructions for operating your wheelchair, particularly when driving on and down slopes. This will lower the risk of injury and discomfort.