Power wheelchairs have become more popular in recent years. It’s a great mobility solution that can transform the life of anyone with mobility issues. If you’re still searching for a good wheelchair, consider getting a power wheelchair.
In this article, learn more about these wheelchairs and their unique features. Also, get a better understanding of the benefits that come with them. Most importantly, discover the key factors to consider when purchasing.
What Is a Power Wheelchair?
It’s a type of chair designed with a powerful battery and motor for functionality. It’s an entirely different chair from a manual one—you don’t have to use your own strength to propel yourself or physically turn this type of wheelchair. Plus, you will commonly encounter it being called an electric wheelchair or powerchair.
Key Features of Power Wheelchairs
To easily spot a powerchair, here are the unique features they offer:
- Battery- and Motor-Powered Mobility: They have batteries that you can easily spot in the setup. These batteries can last for hours of chair usage.
- Adjustable Comfort: They have adjustable features, like reclining seats, adjustable or removable armrests and footrests, etc.
- Intuitive Controls: They’re designed with joysticks or touchpad systems for easy control and moving of the wheelchair.
6 Benefits of Power Wheelchairs
Here are the main benefits that these wheelchairs offer to people with mobility issues:
1. Easier to Use
These wheelchairs are easier to use than regular types of chairs. It has a small footprint and a user-friendly control system, usually a joystick, to move the wheelchair. This also makes it easier to maneuver in different kinds of spaces. With this, even people with serious mobility problems can easily move around. They just have to move a lever and press some buttons.
2. Improved Independence
Since the wheelchair user can move and use the wheelchair on their own, they wouldn’t need someone else to do it for them. This gives them better freedom and independence—to do things on their own. The power wheelchairs can keep up with the demands of a person’s everyday life. This means they can also go outdoors independently without asking for someone’s help.
3. Make More Places Accessible
You can use these wheelchairs in both indoor and outdoor settings. This means you can access more places using this type of wheelchair. An electric wheelchair has a small and tight turning radius. This allows you to navigate even through small and tight spaces using them. You can also use it to access places or locations where you have to pass through steep inclines. With power wheelchairs, it would be easier to access them without hurting yourself.
4. Safe to Use
The center of gravity is lower with an electric wheelchair than a manual one. This means that it’s less likely to tip over, especially when moving through inclined surfaces. Many electric wheelchairs even come with anti-tipping features. Plus, you can avoid accidental rolling with their brakes.
5. Increase Confidence and Social Skills
Since individuals can easily use electric wheelchairs on their own, their self-confidence can increase. They’ll be more confident that they can do things without someone’s help anymore. Plus, with increased mobility and more confidence, wheelchair users will have more opportunities and courage to socialize with others.
6. More Comfortable
Power wheelchairs offer more features that users can enjoy while staying comfortable. First, they are typically larger than regular wheelchairs. This means that they offer better support and stability. It also means that there are more and larger cushions in the chair for more comfort.
Plus, you can commonly change the seating position of an electric wheelchair so you can adjust it based on your preferred position and posture. With this, you can relieve any pressure when sitting for a long time.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Powerchair
To make sure you get the right unit, here are some top considerations to make:
- Your Needs
Make sure to assess your needs before buying. Consider where you’ll use the chair most and what features it should have. This way, you can easily evaluate whether a unit fits all your needs.
- Specifications
These include the wheelchair's size, weight capacity, speed, etc. Remember, it should be able to accommodate you, including your size and weight. Also, consider how fast you want your wheelchair to go. Aside from these, check all specifications indicated in the product detail.
- Price
Lastly, always consider the price. For an easier choosing process, decide on a budget beforehand. Then, choose an electric wheelchair within that budget. This way, you won’t spend unnecessary money on a wheelchair you could’ve bought for a lower price.
Conclusion
Power wheelchairs offer a wide range of benefits. This makes them a better choice than manual wheelchairs for people who have the budget and more serious needs. Just make sure to assess your needs, check the specifications and features, and consider your budget before buying one.
Check out our power wheelchair collection for some options. We offer high-quality units from reliable brands to ensure a safer and more comfortable wheelchair experience for you and your loved one!
