What are Power Wheelchairs, and What are Their Benefits

                            Power wheelchairs are medical devices, which means they are highly customizable to enable a wide range of users to utilize these after customization. Users with limited mobility resulting from disabilities caused by injury or illness can select power wheelchairs to solve their mobility needs. With electric controls and a joystick, users can enjoy a higher degree of independence with limited support or supervision. 

Who needs Power Wheelchairs?

Suppose you want to enjoy your normal routines despite mobility issues and do your daily tasks with limited supervision or assistance; power wheelchairs are one of your best options. Moreover, if you are undergoing rehabilitation after a severe injury or disease, using power wheelchairs (click here) can give you a higher degree of independence to help you recover faster. 

Types of Power Wheelchairs

There are many types of customization options for power wheelchairs. Their simplest types provide straightforward mobility for users. Some examples can enable users to stand from a sitting position. Specific power wheelchairs can also provide mobility to people with quadriplegia using high-tech attachments in place of the regular electric controls and joysticks.

However, power wheelchairs are mainly distinguished by their drive systems. These are the three types of drive systems depending on which wheels the power transmits to:

1. Front-Wheel Power Wheelchairs: The largest wheels directly attached to the motors are mounted in front, while unpowered caster wheels are mounted in the rear. These drive systems are ideal for power wheelchairs required to move over rougher terrain. Moreover, suspension systems mounted in front assure a smoother ride than rear- or mid-wheel drive systems.

2. Mid-Wheel Power Wheelchairs: With larger powered wheels mounted in the middle supported by smaller caster wheels in the front and rear, mid-wheel power wheelchairs are the most maneuverable among the three wheelchair types. These are ideal for indoors or where to move around in limited spaces.

3. Rear-Wheel Power Wheelchairs: The largest wheels attached to the power source are mounted in the rear with smaller unpowered caster wheels in front. These are the easiest wheelchairs to drive and mimic unpowered wheelchairs the most. These are also the most affordable options.

The Benefits of Power Wheelchairs

Power wheelchairs, like power scooters, provide some degree of independence for their users despite limited mobility caused by severe injury or illness. However, unlike power scooters, which are consumer devices, power wheelchairs are medical devices customized for specific users. Users can maximize the benefits of power wheelchairs through customization options. 

Greater Independence: Power wheelchairs, with their power source, is designed to limit users' need to have someone push their wheelchairs around. Moreover, users who find it difficult to use manual wheelchairs can enjoy greater independence using these devices.

Postural Support: With the appropriate attachments and supports, power wheelchairs can be used by users with spinal cord injuries, muscle dystrophy, or cerebral palsy.

Customization Options: Unlike power scooters, power wheelchairs are highly-customizable to satisfy the needs of specific users. When acquiring power wheelchairs, you will work with the supplier to ensure the best fit for the user.

Versatility: Power wheelchairs come in several options. You can opt for a power wheelchair fit for outdoor use or select a power wheelchair optimized for indoor use for maximum maneuverability.

Takeaways: Are Power Wheelchairs Worth It?

Acquiring a power wheelchair requires considerable investment. The price range for a power wheelchair is from $1,000 for straightforward designs to $15,000 for highly-customized examples. Moreover, owning one may require selecting a vehicle with additional storage space to carry power wheelchairs around. However, if you need one temporarily, you may rent power wheelchairs, especially for people undergoing rehabilitation who won't use one after their treatment. The benefits of using power wheelchairs far outweigh the cost. Providing physically challenged people with some degree of independence will make them feel better because they can do many of their normal activities with limited assistance. Best of all, users can control their activities more throughout the day than manual wheelchairs or power scooters.