Author: MJT
Motorized Wheel Chair Can Aid Independence
Give someone the gift of freedom and mobility with a
motorized wheel chair, allowing him or her the movement they require while
confined to a wheel chair. With a motorized wheel chair their personal feeling
of independence can be enhanced and their attitude given an optimistic boost.
Whether it is just one for helping to get around the house
or one strictly for use outside the home, a motorized wheel chair can provide
the help needed for a person to gain movement similar to the previous freedom
they enjoyed. Not having to depend on others to get from one point to another
can make a huge difference for someone with a handicap requiring a motorized
wheel chair.
Numerous sizes are available with various options for mobility,
but a tight turning radius is required on any motorized wheel chair you plan to
use indoors. To be able to get around corners and through doorways,
maneuverability is extremely important. It should also have enough power to
climb ramps for entry into the house as well as those on street corners when
crossing at intersections.
Joystick Controls Make It Easier
There are different methods of steering a motorized wheel
chair but the ones using a single joystick control are the easiest, as they
will go in the direction dictated by the single stick controller. Some of them
have power controls to move forward and in reverse and steering depends on
handlebars. While this type of motorized wheel chair is generally less
expensive, they are also more difficult to maneuver in tight spots.
There are a few of the older models that resemble a
traditional wheel chair with an electric motor attached to them, similar to the
first models of a motorized wheel chair to be introduced, that can be difficult
for a person to handle. Whatever type being used, they should also be able to
be powered by hand in the event of battery failure so as not to leave the
person stranded.
They should also be designed to prevent what is called
rollback in the even the battery quits while going up or down a small ramp. The
motorized wheel chair should be designed so that it will not become
freewheeling and roll down the ramp on its own. A separate braking system
should also be available in the event of power loss. Most will have some sort
of safety system to prevent this from happening, but you will want to insure it
is in working condition.
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