Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
Electric powered wheelchairs can be a great assistance for those who have a limited mobility. These chairs are available at major retailers as well as specialist mobility equipment providers. Medicare and private insurance can pay for the cost of an electric wheelchair if determined to be medically necessary by a physician.
The majority of power wheelchairs feature a joystick that the user uses to control the motors. heavy duty electric wheelchair uk are converted into electrical signals by a controller that acts as the brain of the chair.
Battery Life
When shopping for a power wheelchair, one of the most important factors to take into consideration is the battery's lifespan. A high-quality battery will last for up to two years with regular usage and regular maintenance. The type of battery affects how far a wheelchair will travel on a single charge.
Most power wheelchairs use deep cycle batteries that are designed to provide a long-lasting power supply. They can handle numerous recharges and discharges without causing damage to battery cells. It is crucial to adhere to the recommended charging guidelines of the manufacturer that typically include charging the battery over the course of a night and avoiding letting it run completely empty.
The surface on which the wheelchair operates can affect the battery's life. Smooth flat surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, leading to longer battery longevity than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is used on bumpy or rocky surfaces the motors will need to be more efficient in order to maintain speed and stability, which consumes more energy and drains the battery faster.
The lifespan of batteries is impacted by the age of the battery and its usage. It is possible to replace a battery if it is getting old and losing its capacity to keep charge. A newer battery can help reduce the amount of time a wheelchair needs to be charged, and is more likely to have a greater capacity than older batteries.
Wheelchair batteries are available in various sizes including Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most well-known options. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than the Group 24 batteries. This helps reduce the weight and size of the wheelchair. However, these batteries have a lower power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.
It is important to avoid charging or undercharging your battery, as this can result in a decrease in its life span. The battery should be kept in a dry, cool location is also essential, as exposure to extreme temperatures can negatively impact the battery's functionality.
Capacity for Weight
The weight capacity of a power chair is a crucial aspect to consider. If the chair is to be used for long-distance trips, it will need to be capable of supporting the weight of the user's body. Weight problems are often caused by excess weight, which could lead to battery life issues and accidents.
The weight of a power chair varies from one model to the next and is influenced by the batteries it uses. The weight of a power chair is also affected by the number of accessories as well as the type of accessories, like oxygen tanks holders and different seating systems. The batteries account for the bulk of its weight. One battery can weigh as much as 50 lbs by itself and a powerchair typically has two batteries!
The power wheelchair's either a four-pole or two-pole motor will also influence the weight of the wheelchair. A four-pole motor is more efficient and has a higher capacity of weight. However, it requires more energy and drain batteries faster than a motor with two poles.
Power wheelchairs can also have different base drives, such as mid-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. The location of the drive wheels could affect its maneuverability and handling in a variety of conditions. The base of the drive could have a number of other options, including an adjustable controller that assists in side-transfers, and sip-and-puff controllers which work by blowing on the sensor.
The setting where a power chair is used is another aspect to consider. It is crucial that the chair can be used on different surfaces and be able to fit into rooms and hallways. It is crucial to measure the doorways and ensure that the chair can fit through them. This includes hinged doors.
A physical therapist and/or mobility specialist can assist you in choosing the appropriate power wheelchair for your needs. They can advise on factors like comfort, accessibility changes, seat size, and the weight of the wheelchair. They will also consider the frequency and duration, and whether the chair will be moved frequently.
Seating
Electric wheelchairs come with motors that move them, unlike manual wheelchairs. This gives you more mobility and greater range than a manual one, but it does have certain limitations and other factors to consider.
First, you'll need to determine the capacity of your wheelchair's weight. You should never exceed your power chair's recommended weight limit, whether it's you or any equipment or other items that you're carrying.
Then, ensure that the power chair you choose has a comfortable seat and a footplate you can fit into. If your feet don't fit on the footplate of the power chair, your center of gravity will be shifted backwards and the chair will slouch.
Find a power chair that has tilt and reclining functions to minimize the risk of developing pressure sores. This feature is crucial for seniors whose skin can be thin and bruises easily. Moreover, power leg rests can help raise your legs and reduce swelling.
Like any other mechanical device it will require maintenance to ensure that it operates safely and efficiently. You'll need to inspect the battery, tire pressure, brakes and other components of your wheelchair frequently. Also, you should inspect the seating for wear and tear and make any necessary adjustments.
It is also important to pay attention 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 buy your wheelchair from your pocket, there won't be insurance coverage, and you won't be able return it if you discover that it doesn't meet your needs. Warranty warranties from manufacturers usually last one to two years and cover the motors, electronics, joysticks and frames but not the cushions on the back, seats or tires. Ask your provider about their return policies before you purchase an electric wheelchair. In the first place, read the user manual and follow the instructions on how to use and maintain the device.
Operation
The motor of a power wheelchair is found in the power base. It is situated underneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered by rechargeable batteries of 12 volts connected in series for total voltage of 24 volts. LITH-TECH's lithium batteries are more efficient in energy than lead acids and can be used for a longer period of time.
Many options are available for customizing the controller, electronics, and power base to meet the specific needs of every user. For example, some chairs have adjustable seating to ensure a comfortable fit and allow the user to find 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, in addition to the power tilt feature.
Electric powered wheelchairs can be equipped with a wide range of additional features. They include oxygen tank holders, elevating chairs, and a wide range of accessories for power. Some powerchairs are customised so that the user can control them with their brainwaves or nerve signal.
Certain powerchairs are able to adjust the speed according to the preferences of the user, or to be synchronized with other vehicles on the road. For example when driving uphill. They can also be fitted with sensors that warn of dangers or obstacles in the area and automatically slow down or stop when necessary.
The positioning of the drive wheels - whether they're front-wheel, rear-wheel, or mid-wheel drive - has a big impact on the way the chair performs under various conditions. However, that's a large issue that we'll keep for another Clinical Corner article.
Check that your new electric chair is fully charged and the tires are at the correct pressure prior to going for a spin. It's also recommended to make some adjustments to the seat, armrests, footrests (if appropriate) and joystick, to prepare it for first time use. It's essential to follow the directions in your manual when operating your wheelchair. This is especially important for driving up and down hills. This will minimise the chance of injury, damage and discomfort.