A power wheelchair is a great way to improve mobility and independence for people who need it.A power wheelchair with an electric motor and navigation controls can be a good option for you or the user you are buying for.As there are a lot of power wheelchairs on the market, you will want to choose the one that is best for you or your loved one.Consider your basic needs like seating, size, motor, and other options when you ask for suggestions from professionals.
Step 1: Consider your mobility needs around the house.
Maybe you can use a cane at home and need a motorized wheelchair outside.You will need to consider what makes a chair compatible to use at home if you will be using your wheelchair extensively in all environments.Consider how easy it will be to get in and out of the chair in your home.Think about seat height, how high the seat is from the floor and how tall your bed is.Consider the width of the chair compared to the doorways.For easier exit, check for foot rests that can move out of the way.Determine how much space is needed around the chair to complete a full turn.Your living space will determine whether or not this is important to you.
Step 2: Do you want your chair to do something in the community?
Where are you going to take your wheelchair?The wheelchair should be easy to take apart if the user travels frequently.If the wheelchair will be used outdoors, make sure to get a wheelchair that has quality wheels.If your chair needs to be portable, look into models that are foldable.The Pride Mobility Go-chair is an example of a model that can be disassembled and reassembled to make transportation easier.
Step 3: The placement of the power base should be decided.
Power wheelchairs can be rear, mid-wheel, or front wheel drive.Most people find that one type or another is more comfortable for them to control, because this affects how the chair moves.It is a matter of personal preference, as each type has advantages and disadvantages.To find out what feels most comfortable to you, try to drive a model of each type.A rear-wheel drive model is the best for maximum speed.If you travel longer distances, some of these models can travel up to 8.5 miles per hour.Mid-wheel drive chairs seem to be the most maneuverable and have the smallest turn radius, which is ideal for tight spaces.Front-wheel drive chairs are the best option because of their ability to handle areas like snow, grass, and curbs.
Step 4: Look at the material of the cushion and backboard.
The materials can be air filled, gel, or air-foam combinations.Discuss your needs with your care provider or transportation specialist, as each type of material has advantages and disadvantages.You are less likely to get pressure sores with pressure-reducing cushions.
Step 5: You can choose the right seat.
Many chairs have the standard captain's seat, whereas others can recline, tilt, raise your leg rests, or go into standing position.Children's models have power-seating that lowers the seat to the floor so your child can play on the ground.It is possible to work with your doctor to decide on the best seating option for you, but you should also consider the following: What is your sitting balance?Is it possible to use both of your hands without support?A tilt, recline, and lift feature may be beneficial if not.Is there a chance you will get pressure sores?If that is the case, you will want a way to take weight and pressure off of your buttocks, such as with a standing seat.If you get a power wheelchair with power seating, make sure you know how to use it safely.
Step 6: If applicable, get a chair with alternate controls.
Some models of chair can be controlled with other types of voluntary motions.To pick the right equipment for you, you need to work with a specialized care team.Alternative control styles include: sip and puff, via inhaling and exhaling into a tube Voice control Chin control, foot control and head control.
Step 7: Ask for suggestions from people you know.
To get advice on what to look for in a power wheelchair, chat with a Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapist or Rehab Technology Supplier.You can find out if they recommend a particular brand of chair.People often turn to these professionals for help choosing the best option.I don't know what kind of power wheelchair to buy or what to look for.Do you have any ideas?
Step 8: Ask other users what they liked about it.
Talk to other people who have used electric wheelchairs.Ask them their opinions about the model they have.User reviews can be used to find out what consumers think about a product.These can give you a better idea of what quality is like.Ask someone with experience what they like and dislike about their power wheelchair.When I buy one, do you have any suggestions?
Step 9: The person is paying for a chair.
If you purchase your chair through an insurance program like Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, or the VA, be sure to check what they cover.You will want to know if the insurance covers specific brands or types of chair before you buy one.The out-of-pocket expense will be higher if you have the means to pay for your chair yourself, but you will likely be able to choose from a wider variety.Call your insurance company and tell them that you want to buy a power wheelchair.I need to know what options you will cover for me.
Step 10: Look at battery life.
The range of how long batteries can hold a charge is anywhere from 10 to 25 miles.Do you want to be able to take your chair on a single charge?You should check the battery life of all the chairs you are considering to buy.The chair's weight and terrain will affect the battery life.
Step 11: The user's size should be considered.
If the user is a child, you need a wheelchair that can accommodate their growth.Wheelchairs can hold passengers up to 300 pounds.There are power wheelchair options that can accommodate up to 650 pounds.Get a wider seat width for larger users.
Step 12: You should get a model that can be altered.
Your needs may change over time.You will be able to modify the device in the future if you choose the right chair.If you keep your current chair compatible with your needs, you won't have to buy a new power wheelchair in the future.Some models of wheelchair are built so that you can change or modify the steering mechanism or seating system, or even make it compatible to use with tracks in the house.
Step 13: Don't forget to look at your budget.
How much you can spend may affect your choices.Setting a budget will help to stay within it.Make a list of priorities that you want to get out of your power wheelchair, and if price is a limiting factor focus on your top one or two priorities.Consider whether you need all-terrain outdoors wheels or simple, cheaper ones.Is this more important to you than power seating?It is up to you what you want to spend your money on.
Step 14: Don't be scared.
It is important to know how to use your power wheelchair safely.Understand how to operate the device by reading the manufacturer's guide.Don't forget to wear the seatbelt at all times.Keep your hands, arms, feet and legs within the framework of the wheelchair to decrease your chances of tipping over.You don't want to get stranded if the battery is fully charged.When getting in and out of the chair, turn off the power.Young children who reach for the control unit can cause it to move or accelerate.Be careful outdoors.Don't go outside at night or during bad weather.Try to avoid busy streets and intersections and do not attempt to maneuver over a curb unless the chair is designed to do so.If using the chair on a path, make sure the earth is dry and firm.