Motorized Wheel Chair

Just because one finds themselves in the predicament of a disability, life must go on.  The person that finds themselves here has to admit that life goes on, it does not stop here.  Yes, life has changed as it always does, but we must adapt.  Owning a motorized wheelchair makes this change easier to handle and enables the user to continue one`s job, school, taking care of children.  Life goes on and we must participate in it.

By choosing an electric motorized wheelchair or “power”  chair, you can easily adapt to this change in your life.  Motorized wheel chairs have increased performance, extended battery range, enabling you to continue to work, go to school and pursue many activities outside of your home.  Extended battery life allows longer session use which prevents one from becoming stranded – a not so nice propostion.  Motorized wheel chairs have higher speeds which enables you to cross streets at a speed of 6.5 mph rather than 5 mph.  This makes all the difference when you could be exposed to moving traffic.  You life is safer.

Longer mile range of 16 or more miles compared to a light duty wheel chair which only offers a 12 mile range enables you to meet your lifestyle, work and school activities.  A three inch obstacle climb is provided in a power wheel chair which enables you to traverse uneven terrain out of doors.  A nine degree stability incline ensures your safety over outdoor terrain.  You will find that the motorized wheel chair will be designed with the durability you will need to continue your life as much as you must.

Power wheel chair brands such as Jazzy and Quantum make models of wheel chairs you can ask to look over.  I will be reviewing some of these models in a later posting.  But a few that come to mind when considering a motorized wheel chair include the Quantum 6000Z, the Quantum R-4000, the Jazzy Select 14, the Jazzy 600 and the 600XL and the Jazzy Select Traveller.  These are some of the best motorized wheel chairs on the market today.

Do not think that just because you have a disability that this will keep you from living a very rewarding life.  Life goes on as it should and you can remain just as active as you were before with an electric motorized wheel chair helping you in your life.

A few important questions about motorized wheel chairs

As a first time buyer,  how do I know which motorized wheel chair is the right one for me?

In the last few years, many styles and models of motorized wheel chairs have become available on the market. Finding the right type can sometimes be difficult. If this is your first motorized wheelchair, it is best to go and check one out at a dealer. It is vital that you test drive a mobility wheelchair before you buy one. This will allow you to assess comfort, ease of use and flexibility of the device. In many cases, the dealer will also help you select the wheel chair which is ideal for you.

What are benefits of a motorized wheel chair?

Motorized wheel chairs allow you more freedom. You can go outside but the handling is not always great depending on the surface and the durability of the power chair. The majority of motorized wheel chairs are designed for indoor use on flat surfaces, so be sure to assess your needs and get the right wheelchair.

What is the weight capacity of a motorized wheel chair?

On average, most motorized wheel chairs will carry a weight of 200-300 lbs.

Can I use my motorized wheel chair on all surfaces?

It depends.  The majority of motorized wheel chairs are meant for use indoors on flat surfaces. Since these wheel chairs have small tires, they generally do not drive well on grass and consume a lot of power. Plus, you surely do not want to mess up your wheel chair by driving on mud and dirt.  However, there are motorized wheelchairs that are built for outdoor use so they can help you get to work and follow a regular routine.  Your motorized wheel chair dealer will help you decide what you need.  The outdoor use power chairs have a higher speed and can handle steeper inclines.

Do batteries come with the motorized wheel chairs?

Yes, all motorized wheel chairs come with a battery. The battery shelf life is 12-24 months depending on how you drive and where.  Driving on rough surfaces like grass and gravel always consumes more power. Many wheel chairs now come with self rechargers.

How do I know if the battery is running low?

The motorized wheel chair battery has indicators located on the control panel. When the indicator arrow is at yellow light, it is time to recharge the battery. Whenever the battery power is low, the indicator light will start to blink.
What additional supplies do I need with my motorized wheel chair?

While most motorized wheelchairs are sturdy and will last a long time, it is always precautionary to get a warranty. For the retiree, spending extra money on warranty may be worth it because it allows for more security.

What is the difference between a motorized wheel chair and a power chair?

The power chair is more compact and excellent for use along narrow alleys and tight spaces. It can even be used outdoors. Most power chairs can be operated with a single joy stick. On the other hand, motorized wheel chairs for community use are generally a little bit wider and used mostly indoors.

Do insurance plans for motorized wheel chairs?

Yes, Medicare and some medical health plans do pay for motorized wheel chairs. Some companies only pay for some of the costs. So always call up your insurance carrier ahead of time and find out what is covered and more importantly what is not.  If you live in Canada, there is a government plan which will pay for 75% of the cost of the motorized/power wheel chair.

In most cases you will needs a doctor’s certificate to prove the need for a wheelchair. For those individuals who can ambulate even a short distance, the benefits are usually declined.

If you have any more questions, please email us at contact (@) bestmotorizedwheelchair (.) com
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