Wheelchairs - What to Consider Before You Buy
Electric wheelchairs are the right choice for someone that lacks the upper body strength necessary to use a manual wheelchair. Here you can learn about the types of chairs available and the things to consider before you buy.
The manual chair is probably the right choice for someone that will only need it for a short period of time, although selling a used electric wheelchair is easier than selling a manual. The difference in price is significant. Power wheelchairs cost three to four times more than manuals.
Of course, power chairs vary greatly in price and not only because of design advantages or features. The manufacturer's suggested retail price is sometimes four times as much as what a discounter charges.
Once you decide on the features you need, it is a good idea to do some comparative shopping. The internet has made it possible to easily compare products of all kinds.
Weight is an important consideration. Your weight and the weight of the chair should both be considered.
Most electric wheelchairs can support up to 200 pounds. Models with a higher weight capacity are readily available. The company Wheelchairs of Kansas makes one model that supports up to 750 pounds.
If you and the things you normally carry exceed the chair's maximum capacity, it will run slowly at first. But eventually the motor will break down. Parents and grandparents sometimes need to consider their weight and the weight of the children in order to get a long-lasting chair.
The weight of the chair is an important consideration for transportation and shipping. Most chairs break down into several parts. The weight of the heaviest piece should be listed on the description. Even folding chairs that are classified as transportable may have pieces weighing over 100 pounds. Depending on your condition, you might not be able to lift that.
Lightweight electric wheelchairs are available for people who travel frequently or simply like the increased mobility that the lighter chair allows. One of the IMC Heartway models has a total weight of only 95 pounds. It breaks down into three pieces, each weighing less than 38 pounds.
There are many other features that could be important to you. You might need heavy duty rugged tires or the ability to travel 12 miles without recharging your batteries. You might want a recliner or a chair with removable armrests.
Electric wheelchairs with all of those features and many others are available. Once you have decided on the features you want, check out the warranty. This is an expensive purchase. The warranty should ensure it lasts a long time.
The author, Michael Ottman covers the durable medical equipment industry for several sources.
