Motorized Wheelchairs
Posted on 16. Feb, 2009 by Dave in Electric Wheelchairs
| Motorized Wheel Chairs 9/10 People Pay Little Or Nothing For a New Motorized Wheel Chair. www.hoveround.com/wheelchairs |
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Wheelchairs are perhaps the best option for persons with very little mobility. Motorized wheelchairs, specifically, are particularly suited for those who no longer hand enough upper body strength to propel themselves on a manual wheelchair, making it perfect for those who want to do things independently with as little help from others as possible. Motorized wheelchairs are also very convenient to use in maneuvering around curves and bends.
History of the Motorized Wheelchair
The use of the first motorized wheelchair was advocated by the city of San Diego for the use of disabled individuals on the beach. A few years later, the Motorized Wheelchair Lemon Law was passed. This law was designed protect the rights of wheelchair buyers from dishonest wheelchair dealers.
Types of Motorized Wheelchairs
Motorized wheelchairs, also called power wheelchairs, come in various types. There are three basic types of motorized wheelchairs. These are the foldable motorized wheelchair, the heavy duty and the customizable. The foldable motorized wheelchair is lighter and can be easily folded for storage in the trunk or the back of the van, making it easier to lug around during trips compared to the other two. Customizable motorized wheelchairs can be customized according to the specific need of the individual. They may come with collapsible chairs that can be adjusted to any height, different wheel drives and alterative types of support for the head and neck as needed. Heavy duty wheel chairs are designed for various types of surfaces, including rough or unpaved terrain, are equipped with more power and can support weights of 400 pounds and more.
Tips in Buying Motorized Wheelchairs
Motorized wheelchairs are not cheap therefore it is important that you pick your choice carefully before making your decision. Some buyers may look to the internet to look for great deals in used and new motorized wheelchairs and although this can produce good results, one problem is the warranty and maintenance in case repairs need to be made. Experts agree that if you are planning to buy motorized wheelchairs online, make sure a service center is nearby and that initial repairs are covered by the manufacturers. If not, look for wheelchair centers in your area that offer these incentives.
Experts suggest that you ask your doctor or your physical therapist for advice when choosing motorized wheelchairs. This way the manufacturers can fit the wheelchair according to your specific needs. This is especially important especially if you are going to be using the wheelchair for the most part of the day.
