If you've glanced at the offering of power wheelchair models in today's mobility marketplace, you've likely noted an astounding array of choices: There's an power wheelchair (or electric wheelchair as they are also known) to fit virtually any lifestyle, or need - from compact travel models to sleek indoor models to go-everywhere outdoor models, and many in-between. And, by understanding the features and applications that different models offer, you can know which electric wheelchair may best meet your needs. Invacare Pronto M41 Indoor Power Wheelchair By answering the above questions, and then applying those answers to the information provided in this guide, you can best assess the many models available, finding the class and model that will offer the most liberation to your lifestyle.Click here for power wheelchairs through Medicare.Oops, This Page Could Not Be Found!Wheelchairs are an important piece of equipment in doctor's offices, in hospitals, in shopping malls, and in many homes.
Wheelchairs allow people to move from one place to another within a building or outdoors. They are usually used when an individual cannot or should not walk around on their own. Senior citizens, pregnant women, and people who are sick, weak, injured, or in pain may be moved in a wheelchair. They are also commonly used for people who are temporarily or permanently paralyzed. Some buyers may need a courtesy wheelchair for an office building, a mall, or a medical center. Others may need one for themselves, for a friend, or for a family member. This guide describes some of the types of wheelchairs that are available and suggests some key features to look for in a good wheelchair, including comfort, durability, and maneuverability. It also suggests some places where buyers can find affordable, high-quality wheelchairs, including local stores and online retailers such as eBay. Wheelchairs are available in so many different shapes and sizes and with so many different features that it is nearly impossible to categorize them.
Wheelchairs are often classified by their power source or by the way that they move. They can be divided according to their intended use, such as whether it is short-term or long-term. Buyers will also need to consider whether the user will be using the chair indoors, outdoors, or both. The three main categories of wheelchairs include manual, attendant-propelled, or electric powered chairs, and the below chart gives brief descriptions of each kind of wheelchair. Manual or Self-Propelled Wheelchair This type of wheelchair can be moved and maneuvered manually by the user. These chairs usually have larger wheels so that the user can grip them easily and turn them forward or backward as needed. Attendant-Propelled or Push Wheelchair These wheelchairs must be pushed by a person other than the user, usually a caregiver or an attendant. They typically have smaller wheels than self-propelled wheelchairs do. These wheelchairs are powered by electricity. Users can press a button to propel the chair.
Powered chairs can be maneuvered by the user or by an attendant. Understanding how wheelchairs are designed to move will help buyers select the right kind of chair for themselves or for another user. Some chairs are only needed for short-term use. Individuals with a broken leg, a recent surgery, or a similar temporary ailment may use a wheelchair for several weeks depending on the extent of the injury. If the purpose of the chair is only a short-term one, users may be able to rent or borrow a chair rather than actually purchasing one. Other buyers may have a more permanent condition, one that will require the use of a chair for many years. In such cases, buyers will need to invest in a high-quality wheelchair that will last as long as possible. The materials and the construction of the chair should be solid and sturdy. If users intend to take their wheelchair outdoors, they will need to invest in a few extra features. Electric wheelchairs or power chairs make good outdoor wheelchairs since they do not require users to manually move them along sidewalks and up hills.
Since these wheelchairs will spend a lot of time moving across rough surfaces like sidewalks and parking lots, their tires will need to be extra durable. For some users, a standard wheelchair will work well. Others may require a specific kind of wheelchair, possibly one with special features, additional supports, and unique controls that are designed for their particular condition. In the case of specialized wheelchairs, a comprehensive consultation with a medical professional such as an occupational therapist may need to precede the selection and purchase of a wheelchair. The therapist will conduct some tests and exercises in order to determine which kind of chair will best fit the user's body and lifestyle requirements. Some users may be able to walk on their own with support, but they may lack the ability to take a long stroll through a mall or a park. For these individuals, a folding wheelchair might be a good solution. Folding wheelchairs are collapsible, making them easy to place into the trunk of a car.
Seniors and other people who might not otherwise be able to join the rest of the family for a walk through the local farmer's market or for a shopping trip to the mall can take advantage of these useful, portable wheelchairs to enhance their quality of life. Because of their compact, lightweight design, folding wheelchairs usually lack some of the unique features that regular wheelchairs include. Some wheelchairs are designed to be the user's constant companion, serving as their only way to move through their home, their school, or their place of work. These wheelchairs are generally rigid, which means that transporting them from place to place involves more effort and special equipment. If buyers are purchasing a long-term wheelchair, they should be prepared to invest in comfort, durability, and maneuverability. Sitting in one seat all day can be painful if the seat is not correctly shaped and padded. If a wheelchair is too hard or causes pressure in the wrong spots, it can create sores and can facilitate poor posture, quickly becoming a dreaded device rather than a helpful mobility tool.
As buyers shop for a wheelchair, they should ensure that the seat, the back, and the armrests of the chair are sufficiently padded and are properly positioned, with simple adjustability features included in case a change is needed. Users who plan to take their wheelchair outdoors on a regular basis or who intend to use the chair for sports like basketball or tennis will need something more sturdy than what the average wheelchair can provide. Sport wheelchairs are available for these active users. Many sport wheelchairs include a titanium frame or other titanium elements to ensure a strong, lightweight mobility device. The wheels on a sport wheelchair may also be more conducive to customization and special tires. Some users may be limited by their condition or by their preferences, preferring to stay within a limited area of their home. Others use their wheelchair to accomplish everything that a walking person could achieve, including home activities, work, shopping, exercise, and errands.
The level of maneuverability that a person will need depends on their lifestyle and on the boundaries set by their condition. However, it is usually better to choose a wheelchair with more maneuverability and features than users thinks that they will need. This affords users the potential to go beyond their normal comfort zone if they feel so inclined. In many cases, it can be very healthy for wheelchair users to explore their options and widen their horizons. Finding the right wheelchair, particularly for a long-term mobility solution, can take time. Buyers may want to borrow or rent a few different kinds of wheelchairs so that the intended user can test them and identify some favorite features. Buyers should take full advantage of any expert advice that is available from doctors, nurses, therapists, and other wheelchair users. Patience and careful consideration should lead buyers to the ideal wheelchair. Once you have consulted with medical professionals and have considered either your needs or the needs of the friend or family member who will be using the wheelchair, you can begin your search for the right chair.
Wheelchairs can be ordered from a number of websites that sell medical supplies or mobility equipment. You can also find many affordable wheelchair options on eBay. You can begin your search for wheelchairs on eBay by typing "wheelchair" into the search bar and clicking Search. eBay typically allows you to filter searches by elements like price range, condition, and other options. Since wheelchairs are very expensive to ship, you will likely want to enter your ZIP code and the mile radius within which you want to search. This way, you can find sellers within a reasonable driving distance from you so that you can pick up the new wheelchair in person rather than having it shipped to you. To ask the seller for more details or for photos of the chair, click Ask a Question on the listing page or visit the seller's profile and select Contact Member. You can also save your search if you would like to be notified when new listings for wheelchairs are posted on eBay. While shopping, you may notice that some listings include a seal that says "Top Rated seller."
This indicates that the seller has received excellent feedback from nearly all of their previous customers. Top Rated sellers are likely to provide you with courteous service and with a high-quality product. Some even offer free shipping, package deals, bundles, or return policies. Relying on a wheelchair can be difficult emotionally and physically at first for some people, especially if the chair is a long-term mobility solution. However, the variety of options and features that are available in modern wheelchairs can make the transition much easier. Buyers will need to make sure that the wheelchair that they select incorporates all of the important features that the user will need. They may also want to include some extras that will enhance the user's quality of life. A wheelchair is a significant investment, and it may need to last for many years, so buyers should choose one that is durable and reliable. Wheelchairs need to be maneuverable and comfortable as well. Individuals who will be using the chair need to try it out first to ensure that it will be a good fit for their needs.