Posts Tagged ‘elderly mobility’

Aid Your Mobility with Motorized Wheelchairs

Monday, April 12th, 2010

Since their inception, motorized wheelchairs have been indispensable to individual with mobility issues who have difficulty transporting themselves from place to place. These devices have also been named electric-powered wheelchairs. They are so-named because each is equipped with an electric motor and navigational devices instead of typical wheelchairs, which require the user to push themselves and do not have an external power source. Technology is constantly changing, and because of this the quality of electric-powered wheelchairs has risen considerably in the last few years. These powered wheelchairs have been invaluable for the elderly, disabled, and for any other persons who have difficulty maneuvering without their assistance. Recently, these devices have also become more commonly used by people with cardiovascular problems, as physicians have begun to prescribe them for such patients.

These motorized wheelchairs use a joystick as a controller to be used by the individual who is using this product. To make the wheels move this product uses electric motors to make the wheel move and usually powered by 4 or 5 amp rechargeable batteries. Electrical Powered Wheelchairs (EPWs) are divided into categories by seat type; while some of the models resemble manual chairs having a sling-style frame and seat, others have a “captain’s chair” seat like that of a car. The EPWs also run the gamut from the small and portable that can be easily folded and carried, to more cumbersome models that require a lift and a rack to transport them.

There are, of course, limitations to who can use these products, as persons having problems moving their upper torso and arms would not often times not be capable of operating the joystick. Conversely, if an individual is quite able-bodied, physicians might not tend to prescribe such wheelchairs, as they are meant for individuals somewhere in between the two ranges. At times, these devices are difficult to maneuver, depending on the terrain ahead, as certain obstacles or low ground clearance can restrict movement in areas where curbs are not designed properly. Transferring ones body from wheelchair to chair or bed is not often easy and usually requires the assistance of another person if the individual is not strong enough.

These EPW’s would usually range from $1,600 up to $7,500 and there are three basic models which includes mid-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and a front-wheel drive. Electric powered chair can be designed for outdoor use, indoor use and can also be both. These motorized wheelchairs can also be designed or outdoor use, indoor use and can also be both. Generally this type of motorized wheel chairs are prescribed by physicians to patients who are having trouble using a manual wheelchair because or some hand, arm and shoulder disabling conditions, especially for those who don’t have the strength to use a manual chair using their own feet to push the chair. Check with your insurance to see if power wheelchairs are covered.

EPW’s have been and continue to help the elderly, the disabled, and persons with cardiovascular conditions. Before their existence, these individuals struggled through every day life and required the assistance of others to transport them around. Now that this convenience is accessible to a growing community of people who rely on this technology, the future continues to look brighter. Costs have declined while advance in technology have made these devices more attainable to those who rely on them for their livelihood.

Do you need assistance finding motorized wheelchairs? Visit our site to explore your options to find the best quickie wheelchairs or other wheelchairs to aid your mobility.


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