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A wheelchair is a mobility device
that enables a sick or a disabled person to move. It's basically a chair
mounted on wheels, which can be propelled either manually or
electrically. Wheelchairs propelled electronically are known as electric
wheelchairs. |
Electric wheelchairs are powered by motors. They can be used indoors and
outdoors and cost at least $1,500. Depending on the kind and extent of use,
there are several kinds of wheelchairs available on the market. Some features to
consider when buying a wheelchair are the weight and size of the person using
it, convenience of both indoor and outdoor use, the chair's weight capacity,
power source, warranty and cost.
Electric wheelchairs are generally used by people who have limited or no
mobility due to many different ailments. Some people can be required to use a
wheelchair because of old age, paralysis, weight, degenerating muscle diseases,
broken or weak bones or other illnesses. Electric wheelchairs are easy to use
because they are powered by batteries and can be controlled by a joystick. They
are also highly maneuverable as they can turn 360 degrees in one spot. They are
also very quiet but they require more maintenance than manual wheelchairs.
Electric wheelchairs are now being designed according to the users'
requirements. A low-end power wheel chair will commonly have a light weight
frame that is suited for indoor use. If you are just getting started or don't
plan to use the chair a lot, then it's not a bad idea. The frames, however, are
not always the best. They can sometimes crack and need to be replaced. Also, the
low end models have front forks that sometimes bend and the motor can often wear
out before you have even gotten your full and fair value for your money.
The higher priced chair is usually more rugged and dependable. It will have a
frame that is designed to handle a lot more weight and will therefore resist
breakage.
Advanced technologies like spring suspension, pneumatic wheels and hydraulic
systems are being applied to increase the wheelchair's strength and durability.
This will allow a more smooth ride over rugged terrain and will make for a
longer lasting purchase. There are basically three types of electric
wheelchairs, including rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, and mid-wheel drive.
Rear-wheel drive wheelchairs are the traditional and most common type. They are
faster then front-wheel models but are not as flexible while turning as the
front-wheel drive and mid-wheel drive wheelchairs.
Front-wheel drive wheelchairs are becoming more popular because they are more
flexible and maneuverable. They are slightly slower than the rear-wheel drive
wheelchairs because of this. Mid-wheel drive wheelchairs are the
tightest-turning wheelchairs. However, they tend to be slightly unsteady while
stopping and starting.
Other types of electric wheelchairs are based on weight, ranging from ultra
lightweight to heavy-duty wheelchairs; transport wheelchairs; tilt-in-space
wheelchairs; wheelchairs with an elevating seat; rough terrain wheelchairs;
pediatric wheelchairs and specialty wheelchairs, among others.
Various options are available for almost every part of an electric wheelchair.
The wheelchair frame can be foldable or rigid while the wheels can be
front-wheel or free wheel. Various foot and armrests are also available
including, detachable, swing-away or elevating. The footplates and armrests can
be customized to adjust for both angle and height.
When purchasing a wheelchair the above considerations are only the start of
choosing the right design. Other important considerations are the dimensions of
the chair's backrest and whether it will be foldable and/or able to recline; the
dimensions and upholstery of the chair's seat; automatic or hand brakes; the
type of controls; curb climbers and whether or not the wheelchair will be
outfitted with lights. Other options that can be attached to electric
wheelchairs include a tray, crutch holders, seat belts, bags, drink holders and
anti-tip bars.
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