A Guide to The Electric Wheelchair

A wheelchair is a device that helps movement of a person who is disabled or ill. In simple terms it is a chair put upon wheels, which can be pushed either electrically or manually. Those wheelchairs that are pushed electrically are called electric wheelchairs. The electric wheelchairs are powered by motors.

There are many types of wheelchairs that you can get from the market determined by the kind and frequency of use. The wheelchairs can be used inside or outside and can be fetched at a minimum price of $1,500. when you purchase a wheelchair you must think about certain elements like source of power, warranty and cost, the size and weight of the person who would be using it, the weight capacity of the chair and efficiency of use wherever required. There are three types of wheelchairs mid-wheel drive, front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive.

The most common and traditional type is the rear-wheel drive wheelchair. They run faster that front-wheel types but are not so flexible in turning as the mid-wheel drive and front-wheel drive wheelchairs.

Slowly gaining more popularity is the front-wheel drive wheelchair because they are very flexible and can be turned around better. But because of this feature they are little bit slower than the rear-wheel drive wheelchair.

The mid-wheel drive wheelchair tends to be little bit unsteady while starting and stopping. However it is the tightest turning wheelchair.

There are many other types of wheelchairs. Some are based on weight, ranging from ultra lightweight to heavy-duty wheelchairs. Then there are transport wheelchairs, tilt-in-space wheelchairs, rough terrain wheelchairs, specialty wheelchairs, wheelchairs with an elevating seat, pediatric wheelchairs, and so on and so forth.

Basically wheelchairs are used by those persons who have been struck by many different ailments and have been left with restricted or zero mobility. The problems can include old age, weight, paralysis, broken or weak bones, failing muscles, and a variety of other causes. Electric wheelchairs are easy to manage because they work on batteries and can be manipulated by a joystick. They are also very much moveable since they can turn 360 degrees in a single spot. They also do not cause much sound. Its just that they need more maintenance than hand-driven wheelchairs.

These days electric wheelchairs are being custom made according to the needs of the patient. To improve the strength and durability of the wheelchairs, advanced technologies like pneumatic wheels, hydraulic systems and spring suspension are also used.

You will be spoilt for choices for almost every other component of an electric wheelchair. The frame of the wheelchair can be rigid or foldable while the wheels can be free wheel or front wheel. Many foot and armrests are also available like, detachable, elevating or swing away. The armrests and footplates can be designed for the individual user to adjust for both height and angle.

When you are buying an electric wheelchair the above points are only the beginning of selecting the correct design. Other crucial points to remember are the measurement of the chairs backrest and if it is foldable and/or capable of reclining, the fabric and dimension of the chair's seat, the kind of controls, hand or automatic brakes, kerb climbers and if the wheelchair will be fitted with lights. You can also attach other items on a wheelchair, including crutch holders, seat belts, a tray, anti-tap bars, drink holders, and bags.