Power Wheelchair

So you're thinking that a power wheelchair (also known as an electric wheelchair) may help your aging parents? They can restore their independence, ease their pain and reduce their risk of falling.

Read more below...

Your parents are having a difficult time getting around and you think an electric wheelchair sounds like a good idea.

As a healthcare professional, I am often asked if their parent would benefit from a powered mobility device. Some do and some don't.

This guide will help you make the right decision. It can be an expensive purchase and sometimes it is not the right purchase.

This section will explain:

• General Description
  
• Advantages
  
• Disadvantages
  
• Features to look for
  
• When it is a Bad Idea
  

General Description

• It is motorized
  
• They are typically controlled with a joystick device
  
• They are often recommended for individuals who have difficulty moving around and do not have sufficient upper body strength and endurance to use a manual wheelchair
  

Advantages

• Easier to move around outside
  
• Allows them to conserve their energy for activities they enjoy doing
  
• Allows them more independence if they are currently having difficulty moving around their home and neighborhood
  

Disadvantages

• Some seniors find them hard to operate, although with proper set-up and training, they can learn to use them
  
• May not be suitable for their living situation (ie. their apartment hallways are too narrow)
  
• Hard to transport in most vehicles, although you can have a wheelchair lift installed on most vehicles or purchase a wheelchair accessible van
  
• Expensive, although medical insurance may cover part or all of the cost
  
• Individual may become dependent on the powered device and this may limit their ability to walk after extended reliance of the power wheelchair (AKA electric wheelchair)
  

Features to look for

• Adjustable seat and armrest height
  
• Good warranty
  
• Long battery life
  
• Comfortable
  
• Can be taken apart to fit in a van or trunk of a large sedan
  
• Match the tires with the terrain it will be used on
  
• Will your parent benefit from more advanced models that include tilt, recline, elevating seat and stand up features?
  

When it is a Bad Idea

• When their home is too small to operate it safely in
  
• The home or apartment building is not accessible
  
• Their community and public buildings that they frequent are not accessible
  
• When you question their driving ability. Ask the vendor if you can trial the product before you buy. Good vendors will insist you do this.
  
• When you do not think they will use it