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Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair A wheelchair powered by electricity is a great option for people with limited mobility. These chairs are sold at major retailers as well as specialist mobility equipment manufacturers. Medicare and private insurance will pay for the cost of an electric wheelchair if it's considered medically necessary by a doctor. Most power wheelchairs come with a joystick that users can use to control the motors. These movements are converted into electrical signals by a controller which acts like the brain of the chair. Battery Life Battery life is a crucial aspect to consider when buying wheelchair. A high-quality battery can last for two years with regular usage and proper maintenance. The type of battery also affects how far the wheelchair can travel on a single charge. Deep cycle batteries are used in a majority of power wheelchairs. They offer a long-lasting energy supply. These batteries can handle multiple recharges and discharges without damaging the cells in the battery. It is important to follow the recommended charging guidelines of the manufacturer that typically include overnight charging of the battery and avoiding letting it run completely empty. The surface on which the wheelchair is operated also affects the battery's longevity. Smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the chair, leading to longer battery life. If the wheelchair is driven on rocky or bumpy terrain, the motors need to work harder to maintain speed and balance which consumes energy and drains battery faster. The life expectancy of batteries is impacted by its age and usage patterns. If a battery has become old and losing its capacity to keep an charge, it could be time for a replacement. A newer battery will cut down on the time needed to charge a wheelchair and will likely to be more powerful. Wheelchair batteries are available in various sizes including Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most popular choices. Group 22NF batteries are lighter and smaller than Group 24 batteries, which helps to decrease the overall weight and dimensions of a power wheelchair. These batteries have a smaller power reserve or “juice” than Group 24 batteries. Avoid charging or subcharging the battery as this will shorten the battery's lifespan. It is important to keep the battery in a cool, dry location, as extreme temperatures can impact the battery's performance. Weight Capacity The weight capacity is an important aspect to consider when choosing a power wheelchair. If the chair is to be used for long-distance trips the chair must be capable of supporting the user's body weight. Weight problems can be caused by excessive weight, which could lead to battery life issues and accidents. The weight of a power chair varies from one model to another and is affected by its batteries. It also affects the number and types of accessories it has like oxygen tank holders and a variety of seating systems. The batteries account for the majority of the weight. One battery can weigh as much as 50 lbs alone and a power chair typically has two batteries! Whether the power wheelchair has either a four-pole or two-pole motor can also influence the weight of the wheelchair. My Mobility Scooters -pole power chair is more efficient, and it can support more weight capacity. However, it will require more energy and drain the batteries more quickly than a motor with just two poles. Power wheelchairs may also come with various drive bases, such as mid-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. The location of the drive wheels may influence the maneuverability and handling of the wheelchair in a variety of conditions. The drive base may offer a range of options, like the swing-away control, which helps with side-transfers or sip-and puff controls that work by blowing air on the sensor. The setting where a power chair is used is another aspect to consider. It is essential that the chair is able to move over varying terrain and fit into hallways and rooms. It's important to measure doors and ensure that the chair is able to navigate through them, even doors with hinges. A physical therapist or mobility specialist can help you select the best power chair for your needs. In addition to assessing the weight of the chair, its speed and range of travel They can also provide advice on other aspects such as accessibility, comfort and the size of the seat. They also take into consideration the frequency and duration, and whether the chair will be moved frequently. Seating Electric wheelchairs have motors to move them, in contrast to manual wheelchairs. This allows you to move more freely and further than a manual wheelchair however, there are a few limitations. You'll first need to know the weight capacity of your wheelchair. It is important to never exceed your power chair's recommended weight limit, regardless of whether it's your own or any equipment or supplies that you're carrying. Next, make sure your power chair includes a comfortable seat as well as a footplate you can fit into. If there isn't enough space for your feet to rest on the footplate, it could shift your center of gravity backward and cause the chair to lunge. Finally, look for a wheelchair that has tilt and recline functions to help reduce the risk of pressure sores. This feature is important for older people whose skin could be thin and prone to bruises. Leg rests that are powered are an excellent method of elevating your legs, which will reduce swelling. Like any other mechanical device, requires regular maintenance in order to operate properly and safely. You'll need to check the battery condition and brakes, tire pressure, and other parts of the device regularly. Also, you should inspect the seating for wear and tear and make any adjustments that are needed. It is important to place your power chair in a location which isn't exposed to extreme weather conditions. Exposure to high temperatures can degrade the frame, while exposure to low temperatures may cause damage to the battery and other electrical components. If you don't purchase your wheelchair from your pocket, there won't be insurance coverage and won't be able to return it should you discover that it doesn't meet your requirements. Warranty warranties from manufacturers usually last from one to two years and cover motors as well as electronics, joysticks, joysticks and frames, but not the seats, back cushions or tires. Ask your supplier about their return policy before you purchase an electric wheelchair. The most important thing is to go through the manual and follow the directions regarding use and maintenance. 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 either by rechargeable batteries that are 12 volts connected in series, for total voltage of 24 volts. LITH-TECH offers lithium batteries that are more energy efficient than lead acids and can be used over an extended period of time. The controller as well as the electronics and power base can be customized to meet the needs of different users, with numerous options available. Certain chairs offer adjustable seating, which can help to ensure a comfortable fit. It also allows the user to determine the best position that allows them to maintain their postural stability. Many models also come with adjustable heights for the seat, recline and leg rest positions, as well as 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 can be customized so that the user can control them using their brainwaves or nerve signals. Certain powerchairs are able to alter the speed according to the preferences of the user, or to match other vehicles on the road. For example, when driving uphill. Some powerchairs have sensors that warn them of dangers or obstacles nearby, and they will automatically slow down and turn whenever necessary. The location of the drive wheels – whether front-wheel, rear-wheel, or mid-wheel drive – can have a huge impact on how a chair performs in different situations. But, it's a huge subject that we'll leave for the next Clinical Corner article. Before you take your brand new electric wheelchair out for the first time, ensure that it's fully charged and that the tires have enough air pressure in them. It's also an excellent idea to adjust the armrests, seat, footrests (if applicable) and joystick, in order to prepare it for first time use. It is essential to follow the instructions in the manual before operating your wheelchair. This is especially true when driving up and down hills. This will minimise the chance of injury, damage, and discomfort.