What to Look for in a Power Wheelchair

Power wheelchairs are great for those who want to travel quickly without the help of others. For most individuals, they are more useful than a standard wheelchair since they can move faster and don't require much energy to operate. However, choosing the right electric wheel chair is important. Wheelchairs with rear vs. mid wheel run differently; each has its own pros and cons. There are also bariatric electric wheel chairs.

If the wheel chair is going to be used in a fast paced environment, and the person using the wheel chair wants to be able to travel quickly, a rear wheel wheelchair, such as the Drive Geo Power Wheelchair, is ideal. This type of wheel chair reaches the fastest speeds-up to six miles per hour-and tends to be the most stable, which is ideal for rough terrain. Pride Mobility makes a grey chair with rear wheels, and Drive Medical offers two different black chairs.

A mid-wheel power wheelchair is best for those who need to maneuver in tight spaces, such as a small apartment or crowded office. This type of chair has the smallest turning radius, between 24 and 26 inches. However, this type of electric wheelchair is not the best option for those who frequently travel over bumpy terrain; the chair can get stuck on its front or rear casters, which prevents the drive wheels from touching the ground. Many users consider this a small sacrifice due to the compact size. The Pride Jazzy Select and the Golden Compass have both received great reviews.

Some people need power wheelchairs that can travel with them as they go from place to place by car. For seniors who travel between home, work, and various social gatherings on a day-to-day basis, using a transport wheel chair is essential. Transport chairs weigh substantially less, making it easier to lift them from the ground to the back of a truck or SUV. It also takes fewer people to lift the chair. Additionally, there are several chairs, such as the Jazzy 1107 Transportable Wheelchair, that can be easily disassembled. Traveling with a power wheelchair really doesn't get any easier than that.

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.