A Comprehensive Guide To Electric Powered Wheelchair. Ultimate Guide To Electric Powered Wheelchair
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Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
A wheelchair powered by electricity can be very beneficial for people with mobility issues. You can find these chairs at specialized mobility equipment providers and a few major retailers. Medicare and private insurance can pay for the cost of an electrical wheelchair if a doctor deems it medically essential.
Most power wheelchairs have an electronic joystick that the user uses to direct the motors. These movements are converted to electrical signals by a controller which acts as the brain of the chair.
Battery Life
Battery life is an important factor to consider when purchasing wheelchair. A good battery can last up to two years if it is maintained regularly and is regularly used. The type of battery also affects the distance a wheelchair can travel on one charge.
Most power wheelchairs use deep cycle batteries that are designed to last for a long time and provide a steady energy supply. They can handle numerous recharges and discharges without causing damage to battery cells. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's recommended charging practices which usually include charging the battery overnight and avoiding allowing it to run completely empty.
The battery's life is also affected by the surface of the wheelchair. Smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the chair, resulting in longer battery life. If the wheelchair is driven on rough or bumpy terrain, the motors need to work harder to maintain speed and balance which takes energy and drains batteries faster.
A battery's longevity is also affected by its age and use patterns. It may be time to replace the battery if it's getting old and losing its ability to maintain charge. A newer battery can help reduce the amount of time a wheelchair needs to be charged, and is more likely to have a higher capacity than older batteries.
Wheelchair batteries come in various 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 the wheelchair. However, these batteries have less power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.
Beware of overcharging or subcharging your battery as this will shorten its lifespan. The battery should be kept in a dry, cool area is also crucial since exposure to extreme temperatures can adversely affect the battery's function.
Capacity of Weight
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 will need to be capable of supporting the weight of the user's body. Weight issues are often caused by excess weight, which could result in problems with battery life and accidents.
The weight of a power wheelchair is different from model to model and is affected by the type of batteries it uses. The weight of a wheelchair is dependent on the number of accessories and the type of accessories, like oxygen tanks holders and various seating systems. However, the majority of its weight comes from the batteries. One battery can weigh as much as 50 lbs alone and a power chair usually has two of them!
Whether the power wheelchair has either a four-pole or two-pole motor will also influence the weight of the wheelchair. A four-pole power chair is more efficient, and it can support a greater weight capacity. It will however require more energy and drain the batteries faster than a motor with just two poles.
Power wheelchairs can also have different drive bases such as rear-wheel or mid-wheel. The position of the wheels can affect its handling and maneuverability under various conditions. The drive base may include a variety of options, such as the swing-away control, which helps with side-transfers, or sip-and-puff controls that work by blowing air on the sensor.
Another consideration is the environment that the power wheelchair is utilized. It is crucial that the chair be used on various surfaces and be able to fit into rooms and hallways. It is important to measure the doorways, and ensure that the chair can fit through them. This includes hinged doors.
A physical therapist or mobility specialist can help select the appropriate power wheelchair for your needs. In addition to evaluating the wheelchair's weight, speed and driving range They can also offer advice on other aspects such as accessibility, comfort, and the size of the seat. They will also look at the frequency and duration, and whether the chair is likely to be moved frequently.
Seating
Unlike manual wheelchairs, electric powered ones are powered by motors that move them. This allows you to move more freely and further than a manual one, but there are some limitations.
You'll first need to know the weight capacity of your wheelchair. You should never exceed your power chair's recommended weight limit, regardless of whether it's your own or any other equipment or items that you're carrying.
Make sure that your power chair is comfortable and has an appropriate footplate that you are able to fit into. If you don't have enough room for your feet to rest on the footplate, it can shift your center of gravity forward and cause the chair to read more slouch.
Finally, look for a power wheelchair with tilt and recline capabilities to decrease the risk of pressure sores. This feature is crucial for those who are elderly and whose skin may be thin and prone to bruises. Moreover, power leg rests can assist in elevating your legs and reduce swelling.
Your wheelchair, like any other mechanical device, requires regular maintenance to function properly and safely. You'll have to inspect the condition of the battery as well as brakes, tire pressure and other parts of the device frequently. You should also inspect the seating for wear and tear, and make any necessary adjustments.
It is crucial to store your electric chair in a space that will not expose it to extreme weather conditions. The frame could be damaged by high temperatures, while low temperatures can harm the battery and its electrical components.
If you don't buy your wheelchair from the your pocket, there won't be insurance coverage and won't be able return it if you find it does not meet your needs. Manufacturers' warranties typically last between one and two years. They include joysticks, motors frames, and electronic components, but not seats, back cushions or tires. Before buying an electric wheelchair, ask your dealer about their return policy. The most important thing to do is read the manual thoroughly and follow the instructions regarding maintenance and use.
Operation
The motor of the power wheelchair is situated in the power base. This is underneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered by one or two rechargeable 12-volt batteries in series, for 24 volts total. LITH-TECH offers lithium batteries that are more efficient in energy than lead acids and can be used over an extended period of time.
Many options are available to customize the controller, electronics and power base to meet the specific needs of every user. For instance, some chairs have adjustable seating to help ensure a comfortable fit and let the user find a position that best supports the stability of their posture. A lot of models also have adjustable heights for the seat as well as recline and leg rests, and the ability to tilt with power.
There are a variety of additional features available for electric powered wheelchairs including oxygen tank holders elevating seats, and a variety of power accessories. Certain powerchairs are customized so that the user can control them with their brainwaves or nerve signals.
Some powerchairs also have the capability to adjust their speed to accommodate the individual's preferences or match the speed of other vehicles on the road, such as when climbing hills. They can also be equipped with sensors that alert you to obstacles and other potential hazards within the vicinity and will then automatically slow down or stop in the event of a need.
The positioning of the drive wheels - whether front-wheel, rear-wheel, or mid-wheel drive - has a big impact on how the chair performs under various situations. But, it's a huge topic that we'll save for another Clinical Corner article.
Check that your new electric chair is fully charged and the tires are inflating to the correct pressure prior to taking it for an excursion. It's also an excellent idea to make a few adjustments to the seat, armrests footrests (if applicable) and joystick, to prepare it for first time use. Make sure you follow the directions in the manual when operating your wheelchair, particularly when driving on and down slopes. This will reduce the chance of injury, damage, and discomfort.