by LANWANMAN

Created on: August 04, 2010

The Power of Power Wheelchairs

It’s understandable that you long to have a wheelchair that rolls you anywhere without effort much like taking a ride on a specially driven carriage. If your upper body isn’t strong enough, a battery powered motorized wheelchair is the right wheelchair for you! Electric wheelchairs, also called power wheelchairs, are necessities for people who can’t propel their own wheelchairs such as people who are paralyzed higher up in their bodies, people with degenerative muscle diseases, old age, and other debilitating illnesses.

Basically, electric wheelchairs are of three types: rear- wheel drive, mid-wheel drive, and front -wheel drive electric wheelchairs.

The rear-wheel drive wheelchairs are most popular. These are faster but have the disadvantage of poor turning features when compared to front and mid-wheel drive electric wheelchairs. Front wheel drive types are designed to be slower because at fast speeds they turn too readily. The mid wheels have the best turning feature. However, they can be unsteady when the wheelchair starts or stops. They are constructed with caster wheels in the back and anti-tip wheelchair wheels in the front. But this feature limits their usefulness on uneven surfaces.

Obviously, power wheelchairs cost more than manual wheelchairs. You can save a lot of money if you purchase your wheelchair online. If you are not ready for a full sized battery powered motorized wheelchair, try a battery powered scooter. Look for low price guarantees on all online wheelchair purchases.

If you opt for either an electric wheelchair or a mobility scooter, you can choose the speed and type of batteries such as wet or gel. Ask you sales representative about learning how your new chair operates and what safety issues you need to know about.

The freedom provided by everyday wheelchairs fulfills the need for basic transport and also greatly enhances self-esteem and independence. For the disabled wheelchair user, everyday activities such as going out to get the mail and going on walks with loved ones can be performed through the use of a wheelchair.

Your health insurance should cover the cost of your wheelchair. If you’re thinking of purchasing, consider the features that can be of utmost help to your needs and lifestyle. Take into consideration your disability. Do your homework! Search online for wheelchair funding sources, wheelchair reviews, and other wheelchair articles. Most importantly, seek advice from your physical or occupational therapist. Remember, "It's not what you push...it's what pushes you!"

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