If you do not use a wheelchair like the ones in this best wheelchair guide, how would you describe it?
You may say something like, “Wheelchairs have a significant role in society. Wheelchairs are a chair mounted on wheels and basically used for easier mobility by disabled people or in hospitals. People buy them in order to function more efficiently even though they have disabilities.”
That is why it is imperative that you or your loved one have the best wheelchair possible that suits each individual need. To help you find the perfect wheelchair for you or your loved one, this Best Wheelchair Guide describes several different types of both self-propelled and electric wheelchairs.
Drive Medical Transport Wheelchair
The Drive Medical Transport Wheelchair is a versatile wheelchair because it can be used both indoor and outdoor and because it is used to transport patients in hospitals or other healthcare facilities to other facilities or departments for whatever reason that is necessary. If the patient or caregiver needs a flat surface during transport, there is a foldable table that can be pulled out from the side of the wheelchair. The eight front solid casters of this wheelchair make it possible to be used in different situations and on different terrain. This wheelchair can be used by or for people who have physical injuries and need to be transported for physical or other supportive therapy.
The silver vein finish of this wheelchair is just the right design for medical facilities and it includes a back fold feature for storage purposes. This collapsible feature allows you to place it in a small closet or in your car’s trunk. The footrests are made to swing-away to be removed so you have the option of using them or not.
The upholstery handles are sturdy and to fold it, you simply grab the handles and push them together. Another thing that makes it sturdy is the eight-inch composite wheels that promise durability and a smooth ride. It is not heavy to push and it is low maintenance because the wheels do not easily wear out. The nylon upholstery of the wheelchair is waterproof which makes it easy to clean.
Caregivers will find the wheel lock of this wheelchair to be really convenient. It ensures the safety of the patient and prevents accidental sliding. The foot rest is also very convenient to let the person sit comfortably and supports different sizes of feet.
The folding backrest is also practical for storage purposes. You can easily put it in a narrow space without difficulty. The frame is made of metal that is very sturdy and durable and built to last a long period of time. It can also support persons of different weights. Many of the users praised it for its mobility and durability. Most of them are able to use it for medical purposes.
Most of the users who have experienced riding this wheelchair praised it for its secured features. They noted that it is easy to make a full stop through the use of the wheel lock. They find it really safe to use especially when alone.
Some users used it for supportive therapy purposes. Moving around is much easier with this wheelchair. Other users also tried using it away from home and they commended it for its ability to provide a smooth ride even on rough surfaces. It is safe to be used by anyone.
This wheelchair is definitely worth the money if you are looking for a wheelchair that will cater to your medical and personal needs. If you would like a wheelchair that can provide strength and durability, then the Drive Medical Transport Wheelchair in our best wheelchair guide is the perfect fit for you.
- Durable steel frame provides reliable stability when using independently or with assistance
- Superior maneuverability in narrow indoor layouts, back height - 18 inches; Overall width 21.5" (open) | 8" (closed) | 23.5" (open) | 10.75" (closed)
- Cushioned armrests and swing away footrests ensure comfort
- Chair and backrest fold flat for easy transportation
- Nylon seat upholstery is simple to clean
Drive Medical Blue Streak Wheelchair
Another great innovation from Drive Medical is the Blue Streak Wheelchair. The name itself sounds very attractive. It is created with an attractive blue cross brace together with a powder blue frame. The cross brace is meant for added protection and safety for the rider. Another thing that you will like about this wheelchair is the rubber tires that are very durable. It can provide a stable and smooth ride without you feeling the bothersome bumps.
The major highlights of this wheelchair are the blue cross brace and the powder finish that contributes to its aesthetic value. This design makes it different than the other designs of Drive Medical products. The entire frame is powder-coated with a blue tint to provide a sleek finish. Aside from this, the push-to-lock brakes are a mechanism that sets it apart from normal brakes. You can easily stop it from moving whenever you need.
Like most wheelchairs, the Drive Medical Blue Streak Wheelchair also has a flip back desk arm. It provides ultimate comfort to you. It will not feel heavy to use because it is lightweight and easy to just move around. Both you and your caregiver will have an enjoyable and hassle-free experience with this wheelchair.
No wonder Drive Medical Blue Streak Wheelchair has received a high rating from the users. They commend it because of its attractive aesthetic design, as well as its great mobility. Some of the users noted that they don’t experience any problem in using it even on uneven surfaces. The high-quality tires deliver a great performance when it comes to mobility.
There are other users who have testified to its great features. They even noted that the rubber tires are not easy to wear out. It is also bigger in size compared to other ordinary wheelchairs on the market.
Some of the users utilize this wheelchair in supporting patients who have severe injuries. They find it very useful and helpful during the healing process of the patient. They also commend it for allowing their patients to move freely without many limits. They are able to move freely around the house and do most of their common household chores. The aesthetic design and functionality of Drive Medical Blue Streak are sure to be one of the most-sought-after wheelchairs in our best wheelchair guide and on the market.
- Cutting-edge wheelchair design makes independent mobility enjoyable
- Detachable desk arms and premium elevated leg rests provide customizable support
- 18" padded nylon wheelchair seat ensures lasting comfort and is easy to clean.Do not use an abrasive cleanser that will scratch the finish
- Durable tires feature push-to-lock functionality for safety. Comes with calf strap
- Overall dimensions: 42"(L) x 24"(W) x 36"(H); Closed width: 12.5"; Seat dimensions: 16"(D) x 18"(W) x 19.5"(H); Armrest height: 8"; Weight capacity: 250 pounds. Comes with push-to-lock wheel locks
Drive Medical Blue Streak Wheelchair 20”
The Drive Medical Blue Streak Wheelchair 20” is similar to the earlier version. The only difference is that this one has higher and better capacity compared to the previous one. The powder blue coat of the frame gives it a really stunning look that has the ability to attract buyers. Another great thing about this product is the nylon upholstery that ensures durability.
The frame of this wheelchair is also sturdy enough to withstand different kinds of pressure exerted on it. Just like the earlier version, it also has a very durable nylon seat that can support up to a maximum of 250 pounds. It makes it possible to be used by most hospitals and other private healthcare facilities for most of their supportive needs.
Another feature that you will really love is its great mobility. The tires are rubberized and they can really get you through any surface without any difficulty. Even if the surface is not that smooth, it’s not a big problem for Drive Medical Blue Streak Wheelchair 20 inch.
Just like with its earlier version, many people also find it very convenient to use especially when they are handling patients who are temporarily disabled due to physical problems. Many of the users are also utilizing its benefits for private use. People who have been sick or are elderly will find it convenient to use. A caregiver will find it easier to transport them from one place to another.
You will benefit from its compact and lightweight design. Even the caregivers find it really easy to use because they don’t need to exert too much effort in pushing it. The sleek gliding mechanism makes it easier for them to use it, especially for emergency purposes. Other users also commend the same feature. Some of them even used it for supporting permanently disabled persons. This can provide comfort to the person when they need to go from one place to another. This is indeed a very convenient feature for physically challenged individuals.
- Cutting-edge design makes independent mobility enjoyable
- Detachable desk arms and premium swing-away leg rests provide customizable support
- 18” padded ergonomic seat ensures lasting comfort. Comes with calf strap
- Durable tires feature push-to-lock functionality for safety
- Cross brace and nylon seat upholstery are easy to clean. Comes with push-to-lock wheel locks
Drive Medical Cruiser III
One of the most lightweight wheelchairs on the market is the Drive Medical Cruiser III. The most notable features of this wheelchair are the flip back arm feature that will] be convenient for you. It has also front riggings that will work best for attaching accessories and other par
The lightweight frame of this dual axle wheelchair has Mag-style wheels that make it outsell other wheelchairs. The steel frame is made of carbon with a silver finish. The elevating leg rest will surely capture your attention. The foot rest is a swing-away type that is perfect for different emergency situations. To make it really convenient, the riggings are adjustable.
The aesthetic feature of this wheelchair will surely catch the attention of the people especially the silver vein finish that contributes the smooth and sleek finish. Aside from this, the wheel bearing is reliable. The clean and lightweight upholstery will make it easier for you to clean it and move it around.
It also has eight-inch front casters that can be adjusted in three different positions. To make it more comfortable to use, the armrest is padded and the push-to-lock wheels are effective in keeping the wheelchair secured.
The Cruiser III comes with a plastic foot plate and universal forward stabilizers. The anti-tipping wheels are also one of the main highlights, as well as the wheel lock extensions in the package. The seat has an overall width of 24 inches and a height of 35 inches. The total weight of the wheelchair is 38 pounds which are very light compared to others.
Another thing that will convince you to buy it is the easy transferring feature of this wheelchair. You can flip back the arm rest to be transferred sideways. This will reduce the hassle of carrying to transfer you to a bed or chair.
The front canisters of this wheelchair are adjustable to your desired position. However, it can only be adjusted to three definite positions. The frame of Drive Medical Cruiser III is made from hard steel with silver vein finish. It can definitely support heavy weights. Even the wheels are very reliable in supporting heavy weights because they are mag-type of wheels.
Last but not the least, the tool-free foot rest is foldable whenever it’s not in use. You don’t need any tools to maintain it because everything is already ergonomically designed for your comfort. If you are looking for an ultimately durable and reliable wheelchair, then Drive Medical Cruiser III is the right fit for you.
Most of the users recommended it for its added features. The fact that you can adjust it into three different positions is already beneficial to all users. It makes it very usable for many purposes. If you have limited movement, this is the perfect wheelchair to use. It will allow greater flexibility and movement.
This wheelchair has received many recommendations from the users. They even encourage other people who need support in their daily activities to use this remarkable product. They noted that this is a wheelchair that is worth the value of your money.
- Cutting-edge design makes independent mobility enjoyable
- Detachable desk arms and premium swing-away leg rests provide customizable support
- 18” padded ergonomic seat ensures lasting comfort. Comes with calf strap
- Durable tires feature push-to-lock functionality for safety
- Cross brace and nylon seat upholstery are easy to clean. Comes with push-to-lock wheel locks
Drive Medical Sport Reclining Wheelchair
If you are looking for a wheelchair with a state-of-the-art reclining mechanism, then the Drive Medical Sport Reclining Wheelchair is the perfect choice for you. You will be amazed to know that you can adjust it up to 180 degrees. This will give the utmost comfort to the rider because the arms can extend while in a reclining position. The headrest can also be extended depending on the length needed while in a reclining position. This is probably one of its best features.
Just like other wheelchairs on the market, it has eight-inch front casters with an attractive footplate that will remain durable because it is crack-proof. The black silver vein frame of this wheelchair gives an impression of a classic and professional design. It is made from carbon steel that is known to be an ultimately durable material. It is also protected from chipping and other wear and tear factors.
If you don’t have time to do maintenance, that is not a problem with this wheelchair. The steel frame of this wheelchair is sturdy enough to withstand years of usage and is not prone to rust or corrosion.
Aside from being durable, the steel frame is also very attractive. It has a professional look that will really fit in with most hospitals and private institutions. It is definitely great for sports-related issues, especially when the players need to lie down due to injuries. The paramedics will definitely find this very useful for emergency cases. It is also very safe to use because of the anti-tipping feature. You will also love how lightweight Drive Medical Cruiser III is for the benefit of both your caregiver and you. It will be easier to push and manage because the footrest is also very lightweight as it is made of aluminum. It will make you feel comfortable with the soft cushion support for your legs. The nylon upholstery and the plastic armrests contribute to its lightweight feature. You can rest your arms on the rims because it is designed to lessen the tension even if you put pressure on it. It is circular in shape so you can lean your arms on it without being hurt by sharp edges.
The 20–inch height makes you feel comfortable and can be used by child or adult. To add to your comfort, the back reclines. This particular feature makes it very popular with many adult users. Aside from this, you can extend the removable top head rest. Many users commend the Sport Reclining as an excellent wheelchair.
- Hydraulic reclining mechanism allows for infinite adjustments up to 180-degrees; Arms have support extension for reclining position
- Nylon upholstery is comfortable, lightweight, and easy to clean; Carbon Steel frame with silver vein finish is attractive and easy to maintain.Do not use an abrasive cleanser that will scratch the finish
- Composite Mag-style wheels are lightweight and maintenance free; Precision sealed wheel bearings in front and rear ensure long lasting performance and reliability; Wheels set back on frame prevents tipping
- Padded armrests and headrest extension with cushioned head immobilizer provide added patient comfort
- Comes with swing-away elevating leg rests, metal foot plates, rear anti-tippers, and push to lock wheel locks
Best Electric Wheelchairs Reviews
Foldawheel PW-1000XL
The Foldawheel PW-1000XL is definitely a stylish heavy-duty wheelchair. This wheelchair has proved that technology is about to conquer the world of wheelchairs. It has a creative design that makes it unique to other wheelchairs on the market. This electric wheelchair doubles the benefits of a wheelchair. There is no need to manually push it because, with just a push of a button, you can already control and make it move.
This model weighs a maximum of 55 pounds and can support up to 330 pounds of weight. The seat is eight inches in depth and 19 inches wide. The height of the seat from the ground is 18.5 inches and similar to other wheelchairs.
You will like the sleek and modern design of Foldawheel PW-1000XL. It has an attractive frame and ergonomically designed controls. This wheelchair has ultimate power and great mobility that makes it one of the top choices by most users. Although it is a heavy duty wheelchair, it is very lightweight and ultrafast to fold. You will have no problems when it comes to its size and weight because you can fold it up very quickly in just two seconds.
The motor that operates this wheelchair is so quiet while running and it can be used in areas where noise is not permitted. Aside from this, the rear tires of Foldawheel PW-1000XL are bigger than usual but you don’t need to worry because they will not be bulky. The ergonomic design of the wheelchair makes the tire fit when you fold as it is made from material that contributes to its smooth texture.
The Foldawheel PW-1000XL also comes with a travel bag and a charger. You will also be happy to know that the battery pack is included and can go as far as nine miles when it’s fully loaded. This wheelchair is indeed a powerhouse for heavy-duty uses.
The design of this wheelchair is common and will not stand out as the best design since the steel frame is the perfect definition of simplicity. Users are very satisfied with the simple controls that can be easily learned. They also like using it because they can manage it on their own without the help of caregivers.
EZ Lite Cruiser DX12
When it comes to portability, nothing beats the EZ Lite Cruiser DX12. Because of its durability and portability, it is one of the most recommended wheelchairs on the market. The motor of this wheelchair is indeed a powerhouse. Even if you operate it using the battery, it can still deliver an excellent performance.
This is such a lightweight wheelchair being only 58 pounds. The good thing about it is that you can choose your battery from 10 AH or 15 AH depending on your application. The footrest is also very versatile because you can extend it from six inches to zero inches. You also have the option of mounting your joystick on either left or right side and you can choose the type of seat belt to be attached to the frame.
One thing that you will surely appreciate with the DX12 is its maneuverability. The rear wheels are bigger than the usual with sizes up to 12 inches. Aside from this, the ground clearance is higher than usual making it possible to be used even on uneven surfaces. You can continuously push it without worrying that the wheelchair will get stuck in uneven terrain.
The battery is durable with 1000-cycle capability. It will reach up to 10 miles in distance as long as the battery is fully charged. This is farther than most of the other wheelchairs on the market. The battery life is also longer. Just make sure that you fully charge it before using it to ensure longevity.
You will get around much faster with this wheelchair. It can operate at the top speed of 5 mph. No other wheelchair can run as fast as EZ Lite Cruiser DX12. You can use it as long as you want to without the need to stop just to charge it again. When it comes to maneuverability, this wheelchair definitely has it. You can easily maneuver it even in crowded places.
Another thing that you will like about the DX12 is its comfortable design. This unit only weighs 58 pounds, which is one of the lightest in its league. You will find it very easy to transport because it is very compact. You don’t need to have a lift on your vehicle as you will find it very easy to fold up and put in your trunk.
Another good thing about it is that you have the option to mount the joystick on either side, giving you all the freedom to choose which side you would like it to be. The seat is also easy to maintain because you can remove it for cleaning purposes. Another good feature is that you can set it into five different positions according to your comfort.
Most users are amazed by the good qualities and features. According to them, they haven’t encountered any problem using it. It is ideal for busy people because it is very easy to maintain. Users noted that they will surely endorse it to other customers.
- Weighs Only 62 Pounds & Carries Passengers up to 305 Pounds.
- No Need to Install a Lift on your Car or SUV to transport.
- Small Turning Radius of Only 33 inches -- Gets around tight areas easily.
- Uses a Lithium Ion Battery & Gets 10+ miles on a single charge. Connect two batteries for 20+ miles range.
- Costs Less than Older model & much heavier Power Electric Wheelchairs.
EZ Lite Cruiser Deluxe DX10
The new EZ Lite Cruiser Deluxe DX10 is the latest innovation from EZ Lite products. The frame is better and more durable because it is designed to support up to 330 pounds. The rear and front wheels of this wheelchair are made wider to ensure better performance. Another thing that you will really like is the easy folding and unfolding mechanism. You can unfold it within seconds by just lifting the back support to make it unfold automatically.
The DX10 is the latest addition to the remarkable products of EZ Lite. The aluminum alloy construction of this wheelchair gives it a lightweight frame. It can do up to 19.5 inches of reclining, which is good for people with back problems.
The package includes a 10 AH battery, a charger, and a joystick that you can use for the controls. You have the option to get the dual battery connector to reach greater distances, which is recommended for travel purposes.
Aside from these features, you can easily make sharp turns in most tight areas or narrow spaces. Moving into corners or crowded places will not be a problem for you. The great mobility of EZ Lite Cruiser Deluxe DX10 is one of the most sought-after qualities in wheelchairs.
The price is also very affordable compared to other older models. If you could fit it into your budget, you will be pleasantly satisfied with the quality of a wheelchair that is undeniably good. Most of the users found it convenient for traveling because they can just easily place it in any vehicle without the need of installing a lift or anything else.
Many of the customer feedbacks praised it for its well-built construction. People who have chronic severe back pain are able to continue with their daily activities through the help of this wheelchair. They also noted that they don’t need to worry about flat tires because the rubber tires are well-protected by composite wheels.
- Weighs Only 60 Pounds & Carries Passengers up to 305 Pounds.
- No Need to Install a Lift on your Car or SUV to transport.
- Small Turning Radius of Only 33 inches -- Gets around tight areas easily.
- Uses a Lithium Ion Battery & Gets 10+ miles on a single charge. Connect two batteries for 20+ miles range.
- Costs Less than Older model & much heavier Power Electric Wheelchairs.
Pride Mobility JAZZY600ES
One of the features to boast about by Pride Mobility JAZZY600ES is its ability to turn with a 21-inch radius, which is one of the best motor-operated wheelchairs on the market. If you are looking for the tightest turn in a wheelchair, then you should go with this wheelchair.
If you are looking for a wheelchair that you can use for both indoor and outdoor, then Pride Mobility JAZZY600ES has all the mobility features that you will need. It is powerful with a speed of 4 mph and is recommended for traveling. You will be able to do your activities much faster and efficiently. The battery allows you to travel up to 16 miles when it is fully charged.
This unit has a seatbelt that ensures the safety of the rider. You will also find it very comfortable to sit on because of the padded seat. Even if you sit on it for a long period of time, you will not feel strained. It will provide the comfort that you need while using it.
When it comes to stability, the Pride Mobility JAZZY600ES surely has something to boast about. This is the reason why it is considered as a power chair. The spherical-shaped casters prevent the wheels from having hang-ups. You can also get into the seat sideways, permitting you to access the levers.
It was able to receive a high rating because the users are really satisfied with it. They are able to use it better when making sharp turns in tight spaces. They even noted that they will recommend it to their friends who are also in need of a powerful wheelchair like the JAZZY600ES.
- Pride Mobility JAZZY600ES Jazzy 600 ES
- FDA Class II Medical Device - Pride FDA Class II Medical Devices are designed to aid individuals with mobility impairments.
Pride Go-Chair Wheelchair
The Pride Go-Chair Wheelchair has been popular on the market for its great portability and compact design. You can easily assemble it whenever you want to use it and you can disassemble it just as easily. You can easily break it down into four smaller parts to travel or to put in storage.
Its lightweight design makes it possible to be transferred in your car without the need of a lift. You can use any kind of vehicle to transport it without any problem. This power wheelchair carries with it amazing features even though it is one of the lightest wheelchairs in its league.
The Pride Go-Chair can support up to 250 pounds of weight. This is the maximum weight that it can support due to its lightweight design. You can travel as far as 10 miles with this wheelchair. Before traveling it is recommended to fully charge it to avoid running out of battery power.
This wheelchair received fairly high ratings from most customer feedbacks. The users of this wheelchair are those who have physical injuries and noted that they were able to utilize it to help in their healing process.
- Choice of 6 colors - 1 Year Extended Labor Warranty is included
- Increased 300 lb. weight capacity, Faster speed - up to 3.7 mph
- Larger, 18 amp batteries
- Improved agility - longer wheel base; wider stance; compact turning radius 25.4"
- Dual swing-away, under seat storage bins
What Makes a Wheelchair?
Chair
The chair is the main part of any type of wheelchair usually equipped with armrests where you can lean your arms or brace your hands when sitting down or getting up. Electric wheelchairs have controls and other automatic parts on the chair making them more comfortable and more functional for you.
Some seats of the chair have multiple layers of cushion to ensure that it is comfortable and to help prevent back strains. It also helps in ensuring you have the proper posture while sitting. It is important to check the comfort of the chair before you buy it.
Wheels
The wheels come in a variety of sizes according to the brand of wheelchairs. They also come in different styles depending on their specifications. If your wheelchair has large wheels, you can propel it easier. Wider wheels make it easier to go over uneven terrains. If you need to go over bulky surfaces, it is recommended to buy wheelchairs with large wheels. Self-propelled wheelchairs often have larger wheels than motor-operated ones.
Leg Rests
Another part of the wheelchair is the leg rests that makes it possible for you to rest your legs without any tension. They are usually made with cushions that are padded to ensure maximum comfort for you. Cushions are made from different materials such as leather, vinyl, or wool depending on the manufacturer of the wheelchair. Leather or vinyl leg rests are easier to clean.
It is important to check if the wheelchair you are going to buy has leg rests if you have injuries on your lower extremities to support the injured part of your leg that is in the healing process. Also, if you have weakness or pain from a chronic condition, leg rests will help you be more comfortable.
Arm Rests
The arm rests provide support on the upper extremities of the body. You can lean on them while sitting and use them for a more appropriate posture. It allows you to sit more comfortably, especially if you have an injury located in the upper part of the body.
The arm rests are usually made with padded cushions that are covered with leather or vinyl. Some are made thick and some are thin depending on the standard measure provided by the manufacturer. The thicker they are, the more comfortable they are to your elbows and arms.
Frame
The frame of the wheelchair is the part that that holds all the other components of the wheelchair. Without a frame, it would be impossible to assemble the wheelchair successfully. Most frames are made from durable steel to ensure longevity and the ability to support your weight in the wheelchair.
The frame of the wheelchair is sometimes powder-coated in order to look presentable and some brands have a variety of colors to make them attractive. If you need it for heavy duty purposes, it is advisable to opt for a thicker frame. You should consider the total make up of the frame when buying to ensure its efficiency.
Types of Wheelchairs
Self-Propelled Wheelchairs
The self-propelled wheelchairs are manually operated. They don’t need any electricity or battery in order to operate. The manual wheelchair is usually equipped by a seat, frame, four wheels, two arm rests, and two foot rests. The large rear wheels are used to maneuver around your area inside or outside of your home.
It is equipped with brakes on each of the rear tires. You can use them to hold the wheelchair in a parked position or to slow you down when going too fast. Self-propelled wheelchairs can be rigid but most are foldable for portability purposes.
Pros of Self-Propelled Wheelchairs
There are many advantages of using self-propelled wheelchairs. These units allow you to manipulate or control the speed and direction. When you are in control of the speed, accidents are less likely to occur. Another advantage of using this type of wheelchair is its lightweight design. You or a caregiver can carry it or move around unlike the electric wheelchairs. The material used on the frame is usually aluminum that makes the wheelchair lightweight, easy to fold, and can be transported. You don’t need to worry about breaking most parts because the components are mostly mechanical.
Most of the self-propelled wheelchairs are offered at lower prices than electric ones. This makes it easier for you to buy when you have an urgent need for one, such as when you need a wheelchair for short-term use if you have an injury or have had surgery and need one while you are healing.
Another advantage of the self-propelled wheelchair is that you don’t need to do much maintenance because the parts only need to be wiped clean using dry or wet cloth. This will help in keeping your costs down, as well as being able to adjust it by yourself or your caregiver.
Cons of Using Self-Propelled Wheelchairs
If you don’t have the strength to propel a wheelchair, then this type of wheelchair is not the best fit for you. If you are severely ill or injured, it is not appropriate to use this type of wheelchair because you may worsen your condition. If you have physical injuries, especially in your arms, it will be impossible to use self-propelled wheelchairs.
Another thing that you need to consider is that the use of this wheelchair will cause you fatigue and body strains. If you need to constantly move around, it is not advisable to make use of this type of wheelchairs because sooner or later, you will begin to feel pain in your arms or other upper extremities of your body.
There is also a possibility that your injury will get worse. A perfect example of this situation is when you need to go over a rough terrain. You might injure yourself more if you force yourself to do it independently. This is a very risky situation that could lead to accidental falls and sprains.
Another reason why it is not advisable to use is because of the limits when it comes to turning points. Self-propelled wheelchairs can do most turns, but not as sharp as the power wheelchairs. You need to exert a lot of effort in making different turns in tight spaces.
If any of the above cons prevent you from using a self-propelling wheelchair, you would have two choices; one is to have a caregiver that would need to push your wheelchair and transport it when necessary or the other choice would be to have an electric wheelchair.
Electric Wheelchairs
Electric wheelchairs are also called power or motor wheelchairs because you operate them through the use of a motor run on rechargeable batteries. They are recommended for you if you are not able to propel a manual wheelchair. They are primarily used for people who have permanent injuries and chronic illnesses or conditions.
These wheelchairs usually have four or six wheels. They are powered with rechargeable batteries that can last several hours. You have an option to use wet or dry battery cells.
This wheelchair has a controller or joystick that you control the functions, such as to elevate or lower it and move in different directions. These chairs are crash tested by most of the manufacturers.
Pros of Using Electric Wheelchairs
Power wheelchairs make it possible for you to move freely indoors and outdoors even though you may be physically challenged. One of the advantages of this is that the seats are customized according to your level of comfort. The positioning features can also be set according to your needs.
It allows you to travel in greater distance compared to the manual self-propelled ones because you won’t get tired in operating it. As long as it’s fully charged, you can reach far places without any problem.
Another benefit that you will get from using it is the ultimate comfort. You don’t need to get tired in trying to manually propel it because you just need to push a button to make it move according to your will. All you need to do is to familiarize yourself with the controls and you’re ready to go.
It is beneficial for people who are not strong enough to manually operate a self-propelled wheelchair. You can have it climb up steep inclines without feeling strained or tired. The controller can also make the wheelchair come to a complete stop, which can be most important when the surface is not flat.
Cons of Using Electric Wheelchairs
Any equipment that runs on electricity or is battery-operated needs maintenance on a regular interval. They can break down if you don’t know how to maintain them properly. Also, the cost of maintaining a power wheelchair can be rather costly as demonstrated in this best wheelchair guide.
Some people might find it hard to operate because of the controls. You need to learn them before you can use it properly. Many elderly people find it hard to learn. If you are not able to charge it properly, it will eventually run out of power.
Best Wheelchair Guide – Conclusion
There are many wheelchairs on the market and you can choose either from self-propelled or power wheelchairs. Both types of wheelchairs have their own advantages and disadvantages. There are many factors that you need to consider when buying a wheelchair. You need to determine if you have the strength to use a manual wheelchair or if an electric wheelchair would be more convenient. Choosing the best wheelchair can be challenging and that is why it is recommended to get familiarized with the features and specifications first.
Wheelchairs of all types are incredible devices that can contribute to the needs of the physically challenged. You have the option to utilize the self-propelled wheelchair or to make use of a rechargeable power wheelchair.