A power wheelchair is an electronic device used to assist the movement of individuals who have disabilities. They are powered by batteries and controlled by a joystick or various press buttons. Do you have a specific power wheelchair that you love? Or are you still trying to find the perfect one for your needs? Either way, there are some helpful tips for picking out the best power wheelchair for your situation. When choosing a power wheelchair, the ten tips below can help you choose your mobility equipment.
Choose the Right Size Power Wheelchair
The first thing you must consider when choosing this mobility equipment is the size. There are different sizes of power wheelchairs available, and some are better suited for specific individuals than others. For example, if you are tall or have long legs, you may need a larger wheelchair to accommodate your height and leg length. On the other hand, if you have shorter legs or are not very tall, a smaller wheelchair will be more appropriate for your needs.
Consider Your Comfort
The very most important thing to consider when buying a power wheelchair is how comfortable it will be. A person who spends all day in an uncomfortable chair may get sick from sitting all day long. If you spend so many hours every day in your chair, it needs to be comfortable so that you don't get sick from being uncomfortable in your chair all day.
Know Your Weight Limits
Power wheelchairs have weight limits. You can find those limits in the owner's manual or ask your doctor or therapist. If you exceed these limits, your chair may not function properly or safely. If you're unsure what your weight range is, talk to your doctor or therapist about how much weight you'll be putting on your chair. If unsure, they may want to test it before letting you use it. This will really help them determine whether or not the chair will hold up under your weight and allow them to adjust it if necessary.
Ensure Easy Assembly & Transport
One of the things that you should consider when looking for this mobility equipment is how easy it is to assemble and transport. If you are buying a new power wheelchair at home, it will be essential for you to find one that is easy to make and move around without assistance from others. On the other hand, if you are planning on using it outdoors or travelling with it from place to place, then you should look for an easy folding mechanism, like the folding wheelchair, so as not to take up too much space when not in use.
Look for a Power Wheelchair With Adjustable Features
The other thing to consider when trying to find perfect wheelchairs is whether they have adjustable features. Adjustable features will come in handy if you have trouble moving around in one position for long periods. For example, if you need to sit up straight but have difficulty doing so because of back pain, adjustable features can help by putting more pressure on your legs instead of your back. These features also make it easier for people weighing less than 300 pounds and older adults needing extra support while using their wheelchairs.
Get a Customized Power Wheelchair
Another tip in choosing the best power wheelchair is to get one that fits your needs. This means finding one that has been modified or customized so that it can accommodate your body type and size, as well as any other special requirements, such as being able to handle rough terrain.
In addition, if you have any specific medical conditions or ailments, it is crucial to find out if there are any particular types of modifications that will help alleviate these problems while you're on the go. For instance, if you have back pain or arthritis issues, getting a more prominent seat with more cushioning may promote comfort while driving around town.
Consider the Warranty
The warranty is one of the most important things you should consider when buying a power wheelchair, and it can range from 90 days to five years, depending on the manufacturer. If you're buying online, check the company's website for details on its warranty. If you're buying in person, ask the salesperson or technician about it before making your purchase.
Determine if You Need Much Battery Life
It is also essential to consider how much of a charge will be needed for your specific needs. For example, if you only need your chair for short distances, you will not need as much of a charge as someone travelling long distances or needing the chair for more extended periods. You also want to determine if there are any special needs or requirements for charging the battery and how long it takes to charge up fully.
Check Reviews
If you're buying a new wheelchair from an online retailer, check reviews from previous customers to ensure it's worth the money. Look for reviews that offer details about how easy it was to use, how comfortable it was and whether there were any problems with parts wearing out prematurely. If there are no reviews available for whatever model you're considering buying, try searching for similar models instead to get an idea of what people thought about them.
Talk to Your Therapist
Your therapist will know what type of mobility equipment best suits your condition and lifestyle needs. They can help you choose a model with the right specifications for your body weight and height and how much seating space you need. They'll also recommend an electric wheelchair with features that will make your life easier and more enjoyable.
Conclusion
People often debate which type of wheelchair is appropriate for them. Many options now can make your head spin, for example, a folding wheelchair. If you do some background research and get expert tips, you can find some power wheelchairs that are great for you and your needs. Thankfully, these ten tips will help you choose the best wheelchair.
