Thursday, November 18, 2010

How To Pick The Best Power Wheelchair

By Adam Munch

Today there are several options that can make buying a power wheelchair a daunting task. Prior to making any decisions, take the time to review any options and figure out what things you need the most. The freedom you gain from your purchase will make the time you have spent worth it.

One of the first features that need to be considered is the seat. Depending on the style of the chair, you can choose from a sling or captain seat. Many of them feature other options such as adjustable leg rests and removable arm rests. You might find one that will recline. Also, the size of the person that it is being bought for must be another consideration. These chairs can be built to hold a 700 pound adult or made small enough for a child to use.

How the chair will be used must also be considered. If you are an active person that will always be on the go, then you will want a chair that can holdup through grass and hills, or on pavement and blacktop. If you are more of the type that will stay at home and use the chair mainly around the house, you will want to ensure your chair will fit down narrow hallways and be able to make sharp turns into bedrooms and bathrooms.

How the wheelchair will be transported is another consideration. If it will be transported in a van or a truck a wheel chair lift might be the best choice. If a car will be used to transport it, finding a model that folds or can be broken down into smaller sections might be more desirable.

Furthermore, the speed that the chair will go and the life of the battery are also important factors that must be considered. Active people will want to find a chair that will be able to keep up with the speed others walk so they can retain their sense of freedom. The life of the battery is also important as no one wants to be left behind because their battery died on them.

Of course, as with any major purchase, the amount you can afford is also a determining factor. Over the last few years, prices on them have dropped and, even insurance companies have come to realize how important these kinds of wheelchairs are for people and their well being.

One of the most important things you can do for yourself is to find a reputable dealer to purchase your power wheelchair from. He will be able to answer your questions and help you to find the chair that will meet your needs within your budget.

About the Author:

No comments:

Post a Comment