Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Mobility Scooters Can Make Yur Life Easier

Life is meant to be enjoyed and lived to its fullest. If you have a medical condition which has been impairing your mobility, or if the natural aging process is limiting your ability to walk, a mobility scooter may be just what you have been hoping to find.

Electric scooters can make your life so much easier. They are the most convenient way to move freely about town, or through your home or other buildings where you spend time in your everyday life. You can shop, work, visit people, and even sightsee when you have a scooter to assist you.

In addition to the convenience a scooters will bring to your life, it will also give you the wonderful freedom you need and deserve to make your everyday life much more enjoyable. No matter what factors are currently limiting your mobility, you will be delighted with the newfound freedom you will receive when you use a mobility scooter.

These scooters are also the safest means of achieving mobility. Unlike numerous inferior products, they are designed with your safety in mind. You can enjoy your mobility scooter with complete confidence that it has been designed with all of the safety features you need to use it in your everyday life.

When you opt to use an electric mobility scooter, you will immediately see that you do not have to sacrifice comfort for the sake of getting around. Whether you choose a three wheeled or a four wheeled scooter, you will see that it is designed for ease of use and comfort. The seat of your new scooter is as comfortable as your favorite chair.

Mobility scooters are so perfectly tailored to your needs that you will be pleasantly surprised with how affordable they are. You may have hesitated in checking out mobility scooters because you were concerned about the expense. The good news is that your new mobility scooter will easily fit into your budget. All you have to do is select the one that best suits your personal needs, and you will soon be on your way to living your life to the fullest again.

Who Can Benefit From an Electric Wheelchair

When you think of wheelchairs, the first thing that comes to mind is probably elderly persons. An electric wheelchair is indeed the best choice for the seniors in your life. You want to make the elderly person’s life easier, more comfortable, and safer. An electric wheelchair will provide all of these benefits. There is no safer way for the senior in your life to get around, either at home or out in public places. You will have the peace of mind in knowing he or she will not be at risk of falling and sustaining dangerous injuries.

The construction of the electric wheelchair makes it much more comfortable than the older models of wheelchairs. The power feature makes it easier to operate and easier to handle. This is very beneficial to the elderly person who has less strength in the hands and arms. The senior in your family can feel in control of his or her life again.

Electric wheelchairs are not limited to the elderly. A person of any age whose physical condition limits his mobility can benefit from an electric wheelchair. This is especially true for younger persons who have conditions which affect the ability to stand, walk, and move around freely. A power wheelchair can be the key to freedom and a fulfilling life.

Electric wheelchairs are ideal for persons of all ages who have had accidents or injuries which affect the ability to walk. The person who has had an accident is not likely to be accustomed to using a wheelchair. His inexperience can make using a manual wheelchair extremely difficult. When a person is recovering from an accident, he does not need the added problem of trying to learn how to operate a standard wheelchair. His recovery will be much easier when he has the simple-to-use features of an electric wheelchair.

Anyone who needs a wheelchair can benefit more from a power wheelchair. It will give any person who needs this form of assistance the most positive experience. Whether the wheelchair is intended for a short period of use, or whether it will be an aid throughout the rest of one’s life, an electric wheelchair is the very best option.

Why electric wheelchairs are better than Manual wheelchairs

If you have never tried a power wheelchair, you may not know why electric wheelchairs are so much better than the standard type of chair. The fact is that electric wheelchairs have much more to offer to you.

One of the most important features of an electric wheelchair is its ease in handling. This is a plus for anyone who uses a wheelchair. Instead of operating it manually as you would an old-fashioned chair, it is simple to use. If you have ever needed to turn wheels by hand, you know how unsatisfactory this can be. The strength and dexterity required to operate a manual chair is not an issue with an electric wheelchair. Not only does this make the power wheelchair easier for everyone to use, it is essential for those who are elderly, physically handicapped, or prone to pain and stiffness in the hands, wrists, and arms.

All of the features in the electric wheelchair are designed for easy access, use, and convenience. Unlike bulky, old-fashioned chairs, these new electric wheelchairs are streamlined and compact. This means that they are easier to maneuver wherever you need to travel, as well as being easier to store when they are not in use. There are also no extra parts to get in the way or pose the danger of an accident.

Whether your preference is for a standard electric wheelchair, one which is simple to fold and put away, or one of the heavy-duty varieties, there is one to meet your particular needs. You will be pleased to find that whichever chair suits you the most, it is well within your budget.

When you have so many options to choose from in electric wheelchairs, all at an affordable price, you will know that you do not need to settle for a manual chair. All of the conveniences and freedom of a power wheelchair can be yours. All you need to do is browse through the selection currently available, and choose the one that is best suited to you. You will be well on your way to enjoying your life again with the comfort and safety your new electric wheelchair will provide.

You Can Gain New Freedom With an Electric Wheelchair

There are few things in life more disheartening than losing one’s ability to move about freely. As it become more and more difficult to stand and walk, the limits this places on everyday life are immense. In addition, lesser mobility often comes to be a safety issue. You may be much more prone to falling than you were before.

You can gain new freedom with an electric wheelchair. No matter what your age or degree of physical impairment, the limits imposed on your mobility will be virtually nonexistent. Your new electric wheelchair will give you back the freedom you remember and love.

When your ability to move about freely is curtailed, it can have a very negative effect on your outlook as well as on your life. You can no longer go everywhere you want to go, nor do whatever you wish. You will quickly see how much of an impact an electric wheelchair will have on your spirits and your overall outlook. You will be able to tend to your everyday tasks, visit your friends, and all of the other bonuses you will have with your new freedom. An electric wheelchair is the most positive addition you can make to your life.

You can do all of these things in complete comfort and safety. Each of these finely-constructed electric wheelchairs are made with these essential points in mind. There are many to choose from, so you will have no difficulty finding the specific chair that is best for you.

In today’s world, mobility is the key to a happy, fulfilling life. Whether you want to get around town, your own home, or continue working at the office, an electric wheelchair will give you the freedom you need. When your mobility is no longer limited, your life will feel so much more free, also. No matter what your age or physical condition may be, this is exactly what you need to feel your best and live your life to its fullest. After you have tried out your new electric wheelchair, you will be amazed at the sense of freedom you have. You will be enjoying life at its best again.

Friday, July 3, 2009

Mistakes to avoid when buying a power wheelchair.

Purchasing a power wheelchair can be a very daunting task. The stress associated with choosing the right color, provider, model and manufacturer is very overwhelming. Therefore, when buying a power wheelchair look for name brand manufacturers such as Invacare, Pride etc. These top manufacturers will take of your equipment in the event the need for repairs is necessary. Lastly, make sure you pick a provider that will help you select the proper wheelchair and returns phone calls. Be wary of providers that points you to a particular wheelchair without asking for at the minimum your weight and height. Never buy a power wheelchair that is equal to or very close to your weight. For instance, if you weigh 280 or 300lbs do not buy a 300lb capacity power wheelchair.



Affordable and quality Home medical equipment you can count on to provide top notch service and products.

Sunday, June 7, 2009

What to expect about your choosen power wheelchair provider

Now that you have done your homework, checked the credentials, and you are happy with the initial consultation, you have probably made your choice on the provider of your power wheelchair. You will need to know how the professional provider will behave and what can you expect from him.

The power wheelchair provider should respond in a proficient manner, return phone calls promptly, keep up with the appointments, perform repairs in a timely manner and will handle the paperwork correctly.

The provider should also be able to recognize and understand your physiological, functional and technical needs. He or she will make every effort to communicate, while listening to what you are telling him. If a provider is unclear about something, he should do what ever he can to find the information you need. If a provider is not trained in the area of expertise you need, then you will want to find another provider. The provider should direct you to someone who is an expert or call someone in who is an expert in the area you need.

The provider should have knowledge of the specifications of the power wheelchair and which applications the product is best suited for, and then be able to provide you with a list of product choices that will meet all of your needs.

The provider should discuss pricing and funding options with you. He should explain your financial responsibilities to your understanding.

A provider should also inform you that you have the right to work with a power chair supplier of your choice.

You should be told by the provider of the complaint resolution procedures governed by the organization.

The handling of the ordering, assembly, fitting, adjusting delivery and follow-up consultations regarding adjustments need by the product should be handled by the provider.

The provider should ensure the condition of the high-quality equipment, any ongoing support needed, and long-term services.

It is essential that the provider preserves the confidentiality of the customer, and serves all customers equally regardless of race, creed, gender, sexual orientation and disability.

Managed health care has greatly complicated the issue of your right to select your provider. The best method to get around the insurer’s demand that you deal with a single provider is to read the fine print. Make sure to explore all of your options should the insurer insist on you dealing with a provider you do not like.

Courtesy:http://www.mobilitywheelsonline.com
Chris I.

How Much Speed Do You Need From Your Power Wheelchair?

One of the most common questions asked by those who need a power wheelchair is. “How fast do I need to go in my power wheelchair?” So how much does the maximum speed really benefit a user? What is the difference between 5mph, 8.5mph, and faster? We are going to cover those questions for those of you who may be in the market for a power wheelchair or for those of you who are considering a power wheelchair for a family member or loved one.

First thing you will want to look into is the lifestyle of the person who will be using the chair. This will help you put the speed of the power chair into the real-world perspective.

Let’s start with the lowest maximum speed of the power wheelchair or power chair. We are talking about 5mph, which is the top speed baseline for all rehab products. 5mph is plenty of speed for the person who spends the majority of their time indoors whether it is at home or in other facilities, and they have some sort of transportation, such as a van or other vehicle. This is a practical speed for maneuvering indoors and to and from a building to the parking lot.

If the user has a more active lifestyle, then a higher rate of speed may be more practical for their needs. Examples of those who might need the higher rate of speed is the user who uses public transportation, such as buses or the student maneuvering between classes on large campuses. Even though 6.5 may seem to fast for some, it is merely about the same speed as a jogger.

For those users who travel long distances to run errands around town, and spend the majority of their time outdoors, then it may be more practical for this user to have a chair with a maximum speed of 8.5 mph. If for some reason that speed is to slow, then you may want to look into the 10 mph or faster power wheelchair.

Don’t misunderstand; just because a power chair can travel at a higher rate of speed than another, does not mean that it is a better power chair than the chair with the maximum speed of 5 mph. In the case of the power chair, speed merely represents a one-sided purpose. Smart users understand that speed is in the characteristics of one’s lifestyle.

Courtesy: www.mobilitywheelsonline.com
Chris I.

What is the Pivot Point on Your Power Wheelchair?

If you already own a power wheelchair, then you will already know how it maneuvers indoors. However, you may not know why it maneuvers that way.

The drive wheel on your power chair is the reason the chair maneuvers the way it does. There are several other factors that determine how your power chair maneuvers, but the main reason is the drive wheels.

Power chairs, like vehicles come in rear wheel drive, front wheel drive and center or mid wheel drive. They each have a different pivot point, which determines how the chair will maneuver. The pivot point is where the drive wheel axle line and the power base’s centerline cross. The chair maneuvers and turns around this point.

On a rear wheel drive power wheelchair the pivot point can be found in the rear of the power chair behind where you sit. The majority of the power chair is in front of the pivot point. This is the old stand-by and the most stable chairs in most cases. If you own one of these types of chairs, you may have noticed when going up steep hills, the chair will lean back on its anti-tip tubes to prevent the chair from tipping backwards. The top speed for this chair is about 6 mph. Because it is rear-wheel drive it has the largest turning radius. If you have owned one of these types of chairs and are planning on replacing with a different type of drive wheel, keep in mind the tie-down you use in your van will need to be replaced to accommodate the new style chair.

On a front wheel drive power wheelchair the pivot point will be in the very front of the chair with the majority of the chair behind it. This means you will be sitting behind the pivot point on this type of chair. This chair is very stable in uneven terrain with up and down hills. Of the three types of chairs, the front wheel drive power chair will move over obstacles well. Since most of the chair will be behind you, you will need to adjust the way you turn to accommodate the rear of the chair. This type of chair drives a lot like a forklift. The maximum speed for this type of chair is slower than all of the others. It will range from 5 to 5.5 mph because the front wheel drive chairs have a tendency to “fish tail” at a higher rate of speed. The turning radius is only slightly smaller than that of the rear wheel drive chair.

On a mid wheel drive or center wheel drive power wheelchair the pivot point is directly beneath you. It is in the middle of the chair with the chair on top of the pivot point. You will have equal parts of the chair in front and behind you and your center of gravity is about the same as the pivot point. With this type of chair you will have a much smaller turning radius than the rear wheel and front wheel drive chairs. The speed of this chair is limited to about 5.5 mph. If you ride on uneven terrain on a regular basis, you may want to reconsider buying one of these chairs. These chairs have a tendency of getting stuck if you are riding on uneven terrain or up and down steep curbs. The front or the rear wheels will get stuck, which will suspend the drive wheel so they cannot touch the ground.

Your specific lifestyle and needs should determine the chair you buy. So consider your choices carefully.

Courtesy: http://www.mobilitywheelsonline.com
Chris I.

Staying Mobile with a Power wheelchair or Mobility scooter Despite Immobility

When immobility is a part of life, mobility remains an option with the use of power wheelchairs and scooters. Just because illness or injury has left the body unable to maintain mobility does not mean that movement needs to be restricted. Power wheelchairs and scooters are there to bring movement back where motion has ceased.

There are three products available for a person with decreased mobility - Power Wheelchairs, scooters and traditional wheelchairs. Each provides a different level of movement and mobility for the immobile user. With the help of a family physician or a physical or occupational therapist, the patient will be able to choose which type of mobility device is the best option for them. General questions for choosing the right power wheelchair, scooter or traditional wheelchair include:

* How far can you walk before needing assistance?

* Will your condition deteriorate over time?

* Will you be able to easily get into and out of the different devices?

* Is there sufficient strength in the upper body to self propel a traditional wheelchair?

These requirements are sometimes required if you are looking to purchase your equipment through Medicare. If you are looking to avoid all the hassles of Medicare another option is to purchase them at a low price on the internet.
Once these questions are answered, choosing which mobility device is best for your condition will be far easier. For instance, if there is enough upper body strength to move a traditional wheelchair, this option may be the most effective and the most economical. On the other hand, if you feel your condition may worsen over time, the power wheelchair may prove to be a long term investment well worth the extra money spent. If walking for short distances is plausible, but longer distances are more difficult, the scooter can provide just enough support to keep mobility in the picture. A power wheelchair or scooter is a good alternative for enjoying in the summer. It can help you travel, visit friends, mall and play with your grandchildren.
The main thing to remember when choosing the correct mobility device is the term mobility. No physical condition should be allowed to inhibit mobility to the point where movement is lost. Any individual and all individuals have the right to continue living life with the freedom allowed with movement and that is why mobility devices like Power wheelchairs, Scooters and Traditional Wheelchairs are so important to clients.

Courtesy: www.mobilitywheelsonline.com

Friday, May 8, 2009

How to Choose a Power Wheelchair Provider

When looking into power wheelchairs like any other product on the market there are no two alike. They may have similarities, but they are not exactly the same. The same can be said for the users; there are no two users just alike either. So when you are shopping for a power wheelchair you don’t want to make the mistake of thinking that power wheelchairs are “one size fits all”. That is the wrong attitude to take to the provider because just as the power wheelchairs they offer, there are no two providers just alike either. You are better off staying away from providers who have a sales environment. They may just want to put you into a chair and don’t really care it is the right chair for your needs. You want a provider who has the atmosphere of a professional guide for the consumer. These providers will help the user understand their needs and the best power wheelchair that can meet their needs. You want a provider that seems to have a wealth of knowledge and experience in choosing the right chair for the user. To do this they will get to know you and ask you questions about your lifestyle and what you need from the power wheelchair. You will know all about the chairs and will be well informed, which will help you make the best decision on a power chair that best suits your needs.

Some will say that you need to find a provider who has the skills of a professional with the heart of a teacher. You might think that finding a professional with the heart of a teacher would be a difficult task. Actually it might really be easier than you think. These types of people are not that rare as long as you know what to look for.

Disabled people are among many professional from doctors to therapists. These doctors and therapists will have the best interest of their patient in the forefront of their minds when dealing with them. It is natural for the newly disabled person to see the selection of a power wheelchair as part of the medical process. It is easy for them to assume that all power wheelchair providers are like the doctors and therapists and have their best interest at heart. Some providers do have the customer’s best interest at heart, but some do not because providing power wheelchairs is a business. So it is important for the person looking for a power wheelchair to go into the shopping process with an open mind and a wary eye.

When looking for a provider, you can find recommendations from medical professionals or disabled friends, however you may have to resort to the yellow pages of your local phone book. Don’t avoid looking for a provider from the phone book, but you will look at them just as you will all the others, which is as a possible provider who must go through your screening process.

As you are talking to a potential power wheelchair provider, the first thing you will want to look for is a professional certification. Just as a doctor or lawyer have certifications; you will want your provider to have a certification also. These rehab providers must meet a certain criteria in order to receive the certifications. They may be certified by Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America as an Assistive Technology Supplier, and an Assistive Technology Practitioner. These are two professional standards that is a sign of competence.
Once you have established their professional certification, arrange for an initial consultation to discuss your needs. The provider will discuss at length your disability and lifestyle during the consultation. They may even complete a client history survey, which will include extensive background information, so they can best understand your needs.

If you have a power wheelchair provider that steers you straight to a particular model without asking questions, this is a provider you will want to avoid. It does not matter how knowledgeable they may sound. The fact is they no absolutely nothing about you or your needs. The only knowledge they have is about the chair and it capabilities. Dealing with this type of provider you could possibly end up with an inappropriate power wheelchair for you and your needs, and you may run the risk of having no support after the sale. In other words, if they act like a salesman, they probably are and you need to walk away.

Courtesy: www.mobilitywheelsonline.com

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Tips on Buying Power wheelchairs

When it comes to buying power wheelchairs (also known as electric wheelchairs)
there are several options to choose from. Consumers always consider between
travel, center wheel drive, folding and heavy duty power chairs. Several
factors must be considered to determine the type of motorized wheelchair that
will meet individual consumer needs.
When buying a wheelchair consumers must consider the following:

1. How much do you weigh and what is the weight capacity of the wheelchair
you will be buying?When buying a power chair it is not advisable to buy one with a 300lb
capacity if you weigh 300lbs or your weight is very close to 300lbs. For
example, if you weigh 200lbs, a 250lb or 300lb weight capacity wheelchair
could be appropriate for you. Based on your weight you can choose between a
standard or a heavy duty power chair.

2. Where do you plan on using the electric wheelchair? Consider whether you will be using it indoors, outdoors or both. There are
several power wheelchairs available for indoor and outdoor use. Typically,
most are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

3. How often do you plan on transporting the wheelchair?If transporting your new chair is important to you, it will be in your best
interest to consider between a foldable or travel motorized wheelchair. For
instance, Merits EZ Go and Pride's Go Chair weighs the least and is
appropriate for those concerned about transportation.

4. What seat size will be more comfortable for you?Seat width goes a long way in determining how comfortable you will be in your
new wheelchair. It is of utmost importance that you use a measuring guide
when buying a power wheelchair or scooter.
The following are tips consumers should consider when buying a power
wheelchair. Buying a power wheelchair is a big investment and given the cost
of these equipment, it is important for consumers to ensure they purchase the
right equipment to avoid hassles and unwarranted restocking fees.

Courtesy: www.mobilitywheelsonline.com