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What to Look for in a Power Wheelchair
When selecting an electric wheel chair it is important to consider where the wheelchair will be used. Power wheelchairs have either mid or rear wheels, which affects the way the wheelchair runs. Electric bariatric wheel chairs are also available.
When selecting an electric wheel chair it is important to consider where the wheelchair will be used. Power wheelchairs have either mid or rear wheels, which affects the way the wheelchair runs. Electric bariatric wheel chairs are also available.
Rear wheel wheelchairs are sturdier and tend to run faster than other types of electric wheel chairs. They can reach speeds of up to six mph and they are less likely to tip over under extreme conditions. Thus, a rear wheel wheelchair, such as the Drive Geo Power Wheelchair, is perfect for those live or work in fast paced environments. Pride Mobility and Drive Medical both make high-quality rear wheel wheelchairs.
If your senior parent needs to be able to maneuver in small places, such as an apartment or tight office, a mid-wheel power wheelchair is probably best. It has the smallest turning radius, between 24 and 26 inches, which is seven inches smaller than the most compact rear wheel. This type of electric wheelchair is not ideal for going over bumpy terrain though, as the chair can get stuck on the front or rear casters, preventing the middle drive wheels from touching the ground. However, the more compact size makes mid-wheel wheel chairs ideal for many users. The Golden Compass and Pride Jazzy Select are both popular options.
Some individuals who use wheel chairs travel a great deal, perhaps between the home, office, and various social gatherings. For these seniors, having a portable electric wheel chair is crucial. The main difference is that they are lightweight, which makes them easier to lift between the ground and the trunk of a car. This weight difference is important because it means less people are needed to help move the chair. A few chairs, such as the Jazzy 1107 Transportable Power Wheelchair, can be easily disassembled, allowing the wheel chair to fit in particularly small spaces.
There is an electric wheelchair to fit your elderly parent's needs. Helping your loved one find the best fit is worth your time and energy, as it can greatly improve his quality of life. Many people forget how simply being able to walk from one place to another is a gift. However, with a power wheel chair, your loved one can regain his sense of independence and freedom.
by SusanR.Love
When selecting an electric wheel chair it is important to consider where the wheelchair will be used. Power wheelchairs have either mid or rear wheels, which affects the way the wheelchair runs. Electric bariatric wheel chairs are also available.
Rear wheel wheelchairs are sturdier and tend to run faster than other types of electric wheel chairs. They can reach speeds of up to six mph and they are less likely to tip over under extreme conditions. Thus, a rear wheel wheelchair, such as the Drive Geo Power Wheelchair, is perfect for those live or work in fast paced environments. Pride Mobility and Drive Medical both make high-quality rear wheel wheelchairs.
If your senior parent needs to be able to maneuver in small places, such as an apartment or tight office, a mid-wheel power wheelchair is probably best. It has the smallest turning radius, between 24 and 26 inches, which is seven inches smaller than the most compact rear wheel. This type of electric wheelchair is not ideal for going over bumpy terrain though, as the chair can get stuck on the front or rear casters, preventing the middle drive wheels from touching the ground. However, the more compact size makes mid-wheel wheel chairs ideal for many users. The Golden Compass and Pride Jazzy Select are both popular options.
Some individuals who use wheel chairs travel a great deal, perhaps between the home, office, and various social gatherings. For these seniors, having a portable electric wheel chair is crucial. The main difference is that they are lightweight, which makes them easier to lift between the ground and the trunk of a car. This weight difference is important because it means less people are needed to help move the chair. A few chairs, such as the Jazzy 1107 Transportable Power Wheelchair, can be easily disassembled, allowing the wheel chair to fit in particularly small spaces.
There is an electric wheelchair to fit your elderly parent's needs. Helping your loved one find the best fit is worth your time and energy, as it can greatly improve his quality of life. Many people forget how simply being able to walk from one place to another is a gift. However, with a power wheel chair, your loved one can regain his sense of independence and freedom.
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For more information about power wheel chairs, visit Susan Love's site, where you will find a wide selection of senior homecare products and services.