10 Misconceptions Your Boss Holds Regarding Electric Powered Wheelchair
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Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
A wheelchair powered by electricity can be very beneficial for those who have a limited mobility. You can find these chairs at specialized mobility equipment providers and some major retailers. Medicare and private insurance may cover the cost of an electric wheelchair if a physician deems it medically required.
The majority of power wheelchairs come with an electronic joystick that the user uses to control the motors. The controller, acting as the brain of the wheelchair converts these movements into electrical signals.
Battery Life
When looking for a power wheelchair, one of the most important aspects to consider is the battery's life. A high-quality battery will last for up to two years with regular usage and regular maintenance. The type of battery affects how far a wheelchair will be able to travel on one charge.
Deep cycle batteries are found in the majority of power wheelchairs. They provide a long-lasting energy source. They can handle numerous discharges and recharges without harming the cells of the battery. It is crucial to adhere to the recommendations of the manufacturer for charging, which typically include charging the battery overnight and avoiding allowing it to run completely empty.
The surface on the ground on which the wheelchair is operated can affect the battery's life. Smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the wheelchair, which results in longer battery longevity than rough terrains. If a wheelchair is driven over rocky or bumpy terrain, the motors have to work harder in order to maintain balance and speed, which consumes energy and drains batteries faster.
The age of a battery and the way it is used can impact its longevity. If a battery is old and starting to lose its capacity to keep an charge, it could be time for a replacement. A newer battery will cut down on the time required to charge a wheelchair and is likely to have more capacity.
Wheelchair batteries are available in a variety of sizes that include Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most well-known choices. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than the Group 24 batteries. This reduces the weight and size of the wheelchair. These batteries have a smaller power reserve or "juice" than Group 24 batteries.
Avoid overcharging or subcharging the battery as it will reduce its life. The battery should be kept in a cool, dry area is also crucial since exposure to extreme temperatures can negatively impact the battery's functionality.
Capacity for Weight
Weight capacity is an important factor to consider when choosing a power wheelchair. If the chair is going to be used for long journeys, it will need to be capable of supporting the weight of the person. Problems with weight can be caused by excessive weight, which can also cause accidents and battery life issues.
The weight of a power wheelchair differs from one model to the next and is influenced by the batteries it uses. It is also impacted by the variety and types of additional accessories it has, such as oxygen tank holders and various seating systems. The batteries account for the bulk of its weight. One battery can weigh as much as 50 pounds on its own and a power chair typically has two batteries!
The weight of the power wheelchair can be affected by the type of engine it is either a two-pole or four-pole motor. A four-pole power wheelchair is more efficient, and it can support the weight of a larger capacity. However, it will require more energy and drain batteries faster than a motor with two poles.
Power wheelchairs could also have different drive bases, such as mid-wheel or rear-wheel. The position of the wheels may affect its handling and maneuverability in various conditions. The drive base may offer a range of options, like an adjustable swing-away control that assists with side-transfers, or sip-and-puff controls that work by blowing air on a sensor.
Another consideration is the environment that the power wheelchair is utilized. It is important that the chair be used on a variety of terrains and can be fitted into rooms and hallways. It is crucial to measure the doorways, and make sure that the chair is able to pass through them. This includes hinged doors.
A mobility specialist or physical therapist can assist you in choosing the best power chair to meet your requirements. In addition to assessing the weight of the chair, its speed and range of travel They can also offer advice on other factors like comfort, accessibility modifications and the size of the seat. They will also consider the frequency and duration of use as well as if the chair will be transported regularly.
Seating
As opposed to manual wheelchairs powered ones have motors that move them. This allows you to move more freely and further than a manual wheelchair however, there are some limitations.
You'll first need to know the capacity of your wheelchair's weight. Whether it's your personal weight or the weight of any equipment or supplies you're carrying, you should not exceed the manufacturer's suggested weight limit in order to avoid overloading the power chair and creating damage.
Then, ensure that the power chair you choose 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 to the back and cause the chair to move.
Then, you should look for a power wheelchair with tilt and recline functions to reduce the risk of pressure sores. This feature is especially important for those who are older, as their skin is thin and can bruise easily. Power leg rests are also an excellent method of elevating your legs, which will reduce swelling.
Like any mechanical device, will need regular maintenance in order to operate properly and safely. You'll need to inspect the battery, brakes, tire pressure and other components of your device regularly. You should also inspect the seating for wear and tear, and make any necessary adjustments.
It is also important to pay attention to the location you place your power wheelchair in order to avoid exposing it to extreme weather conditions. The frame may be damaged by high temperatures, and low temperatures can cause damage to electrical components and the battery.
Unless you're buying your wheelchair from a private source it will not be covered by insurance and you won't have the option to return it if it doesn't meet your needs. Warranties from manufacturers typically last from one to two years and cover the motors as well as electronics, joysticks, joysticks and frames, but not the cushions on the back, seats or tires. Ask your provider about their return policy before you purchase an electric wheelchair. The most important thing is to go through the manual and follow the guidelines regarding use and maintenance.
Operation
The motor of the power wheelchair is situated in the power base. This is under the user's seat. The motor is powered either by rechargeable batteries that are 12 volts connected in series, for a total voltage of 24 volts. LITH-TECH provides lithium batteries, that are much more energy efficient than lead acid batteries and can be used for longer periods of time.
Many options are available to customize the controller, electronics, and power base to meet the requirements of each user. Some chairs allow for customizable seating, which can help to ensure an ideal fit. It can also help the user determine the best position that supports their postural stability. Many chairs come with adjustable features such as leg rest, seat height and recline positions, as well the ability to tilt with power.
There are a myriad of extra features available for electric powered wheelchairs including oxygen tank holders, elevating seats and a range of power accessories. Certain powerchairs can be customized to allow the user to control them using their brainwaves here or nerve signal.
Some powerchairs can also be adjusted in their speed to accommodate the preferences of the user or to match the speed of other vehicles on the road, for instance when going up hills. They can also be fitted with sensors that alert you to dangers or obstacles in the vicinity and automatically slow down or stop if necessary.
The positioning of the drive wheels - whether they are front-wheel, rear-wheel, or mid-wheel drive - has a big impact on how the chair performs under various situations. This is a huge topic, so we'll leave it to a future Clinical Corner.
Check that your brand new electric chair is fully charged and the tires are inflating to the correct pressure prior to going for an outing. To get ready for your first time, it's a good idea make some adjustments to your chair, armrests and footrests. It's important to read the directions in the manual before operating your wheelchair. This is especially important for driving up and down hills. This will lower the risk of discomfort and injury.