If someone should find themselves, for medical reasons, limited in their mobility, one of the best things that can be purchased for their use is some form of wheelchair to aid in getting around in the home or outdoors. For some people however, maneuvering one on their own can be impossible, due to a lack of the upper body strength required. For those people, the best solution would be a power wheelchair, otherwise known as a power scooter.
Why Get a Power Wheelchair?
As we said, not everyone has the upper body strength required to control and maneuver a standard wheelchair or may not have an assistant available at all times to aid them. By using an electric power wheelchair, they regain the ability to maneuver it around their home whenever they need to, without relying on anyone else to assist them. Whether the reason they need a wheelchair is permanent or only temporary, their quality of life has been proven to improve immensely by the simple act of restoring their independence through movement. Illness can play havoc with any person's sense of well-being, and regaining even a little independence in a small way can improve their mood and even their overall health.
How Does It Work?
The basic electric power wheelchair operates by relying on a rechargeable battery to supply the power to move the wheels. Controls to operate such a device can be customized to suit the needs of the user, ranging from a control panel with fingertip controls, to a joystick that operates similar to those found on video games or even through an air activated breathing device for those who cannot move their hands or arms. The standard battery can power the chair for up to eight hours before requiring recharging and there are other batteries available for use, which can double that limitation if desired.
The wheelbase for these chairs are designed horizontally, rather than the vertical type used on manual wheel chairs. The number of wheels attached to this wheelbase varies from three to four and the tires can also be customized to handle terrain other than the average tile, hardwood or carpeted floors.
For those who desire to leave their home under their own power, all terrain tires are available, as are enhanced braking systems for safety purposes.
Very Easy To Travel With
Most models made today can be purchased with the traveler in mind. Lighter weight frames, even with the attached battery, can be folded and placed into most vehicles for transport, and some may meet air travel restrictions.
Some buyers use their power wheelchair as an alternative means of travel on its own, with a long-life battery, they can travel miles along most terrain, making it the perfect means of doing errands that only require a limited range of transport. With the right accessories, like baskets and bags to hold purchases, and comfortable seating, there is no need to remain at home any longer than you wish.
Want to know more about how a power wheelchair can improve the quality of life for any homebound patient? The experts at Mobility Specialists can easily match a model to your needs, so call today for a complete explanation of options available. Also, check out our new page on Choosing Power Wheelchairs.
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