20 Things You Must Be Educated About Electric Powered Wheelchair
Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
An electric powered wheelchair can be very beneficial for individuals with mobility issues. These chairs are available at major retailers and specialty mobility equipment providers. Medicare and private insurance may cover the cost of an electric wheelchair if a physician deems it medically essential.
Most power wheelchairs come with a joystick that users can use to control the motors. The controller, which functions as the brain of the wheelchair, converts these movements into electrical signals.
Battery Life
When shopping for a power wheelchair, one of the most important aspects to take into consideration is the battery's lifespan. A good battery can last up to two years if it is used regularly and maintained properly. The type of battery also affects how far the wheelchair can travel on a single charge.
Most power wheelchairs use deep cycle batteries that are designed to provide a long-lasting energy supply. These batteries can handle multiple recharges and discharges without harming the cells of the battery. It is crucial to adhere to the recommended charging practices of the manufacturer. This includes charging the battery over a long period of time and not the battery from running completely empty.
The battery life is also affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth, level surfaces use less energy to propel the chair, resulting in longer battery life. If a wheelchair is driven over rough terrain, the motors will have to work harder to maintain balance and speed which takes energy and drains battery faster.
The age of a battery as well as its usage pattern can also influence its lifespan. It may be time to replace a battery if it is getting old and losing its capacity to keep charge. A newer battery will cut down on the time it takes to charge a wheelchair and will likely to have more capacity.
Wheelchair batteries are available in a variety of 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 weight and size of a wheelchair. These batteries have a lower power reserve or "juice" than Group 24 batteries.
Avoid charging or subcharging the battery as it will reduce its lifespan. It is crucial to keep the battery in a dry, cool place, as extreme temperatures can affect the functionality of the battery.
Capacity of Weight
The weight capacity is an important aspect to consider when choosing the right power wheelchair. If the chair is going to be used on long trips, then it must be able to support a user's weight. Problems with weight can be caused by excessive weight, which can also result in battery life issues and accidents.
The weight of a power chair varies between models and is affected by its batteries. It also affects the variety and types of accessories it has like oxygen tank holders and various seating systems. However, most of its weight is derived from the batteries. A single battery can weigh as much as 50 lbs, and most power chairs come with two batteries!
The power wheelchair's a two-pole motor or four-pole motor will also affect the weight of the wheelchair. A four-pole motor is more efficient and can provide a higher capacity for weight. However, it will require more energy and drain the batteries more quickly than a motor that has two poles.
Power wheelchairs can also be equipped with different base drives, such as rear-wheel drive or mid-wheel drive. The position of the wheels can impact its maneuverability and handling in different conditions. The drive base can also offer a range of options, such as the swing-away control, which helps with side-transfers and sip-and-puff controls that work by blowing air on a sensor.
The setting where a power chair is used is an additional consideration. It's essential that the chair can travel across a variety of terrains and be able to fit into rooms and hallways. It is essential to measure the doorways and ensure that the chair is able to move through them, including those with hinged doors.
A physical therapist or a mobility specialist can help you choose the right wheelchair to meet your requirements. They can advise on factors like comfort, accessibility modifications along with the size, shape, and the weight of the wheelchair. They also take into consideration the frequency and duration of use and whether the chair will be moved frequently.
Seating
As opposed to manual wheelchairs powered ones come with motors that move them. This allows you to move more freely and further than a manual one, however, there are a few limitations.
portable electric wheelchair is important to understand the capacity of your wheelchair's weight. It is important to never exceed the recommended weight limit, whether it's you or any equipment or other items that you're carrying.
Make sure 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 room for your feet to rest on the footplate, it may shift your center of gravity backward and cause the chair to slouch.
Finally, look for a wheelchair that has tilt and recline features to help reduce the risk of pressure sores. This feature is essential for seniors whose skin can be fragile and easily bruises. Leg rests with power are an excellent way to raise your legs, which could reduce swelling.
Like any other mechanical device the wheelchair will require regular maintenance to ensure that it operates well and safely. You'll have to inspect the condition of the battery and tire pressure, brakes and other components of the device regularly. Also, you should inspect the seating for wear and tear and make any necessary adjustments.
It is important to store your power chair in a location which isn't exposed to extreme weather conditions. Exposed to extreme temperatures could cause damage to the frame, whereas exposure to low temperatures can cause damage to the battery and other electrical components.
If you're not purchasing your wheelchair out-of-pocket, it will not be covered by insurance and you won't be able to return it if it doesn't meet your needs. Warranty warranties from manufacturers usually last one to two years and cover the motors electronic, joysticks, and electronics frames, but not the seats, back cushions or tires. Ask your supplier about their return policies before you purchase an electric wheelchair. The most important thing to do is read the manual thoroughly and follow the directions regarding use and maintenance.
Operation
The motor of a power wheelchair is found in the power base. It is located beneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered by two or one rechargeable 12-volt batteries in series, for 24 volts in total. LITH-TECH offers lithium batteries, which are more energy efficient than lead acid batteries and can be used for longer periods of time.
There are a variety of options for customizing the controller, electronics, and power base to meet the requirements of every user. Certain chairs offer customizable seating, which will ensure a comfortable fit. It also lets the user determine the best position that allows them to maintain their postural stability. Many models also include adjustable heights for the seat as well as recline and leg rest positions as well as power tilt functionality.
There are many additional extras available for electric powered wheelchairs, such as oxygen tank holders, elevating seats and a range of power accessories. Some wheelchairs can be customized to let the user 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 be synchronized with other vehicles on the road. For instance when driving uphill. Some powerchairs have sensors that warn them of obstacles or other potential hazards close by, and they automatically slow down and swerve when needed.
The location of the drive wheels - whether they are front-wheel, mid-wheel or rear-wheel drive - has a significant impact on how the chair performs under various conditions. This is a vast topic, so we'll leave it to a future Clinical Corner.
Before you take your new electric wheelchair for the first time, ensure that it's fully charged and that the tires have enough air pressure in them. To get ready for your first time it's best to make some adjustments to your chair, armrests and footrests. Make sure you adhere to the instructions in the manual for operating your wheelchair, especially when driving down and up slopes. This reduces the chance of discomfort and injury.