Help Your Loved One Choose Wheelchair

Author: Todd Dawson

Wheelchairs come really handy to people with disabilities, since it helps them go to places they want. Elderly people that are not capable to walk any more can really benefit from using wheelchair, so if you have a family member with this kind of condition, wheelchairs can help them significantly. There are electric and manual wheelchairs that you can choose from, depending on your physical condition.

Manual chairs

Manual wheelchairs are a good choice for people that have reasonable upper body strength, while people with upper body impairments tend to choose electric wheelchair. A manual chair could be suitable for years, but increasing age, pain, or fatigue might make it clear that it is time to switch to a motorized chair and save the wear and tear on your body. The type of the wheelchair will depend on your lifestyle as well, because if you wish to use it on a rough terrain, you will need suitable tires. Once you make a decision about the wheelchair type, there is a great choice of accessories that can significantly improve your ride.

There are many electric wheelchairs you can choose from and they usually come with a wheelchair lift which is also powered with the similar mechanism as the wheelchair itself. Wheelchair lift enables the person to go into the vehicle significantly easier. The person places the wheelchair on the platform of the wheelchair lift and then by pressing the power button raises the wheelchair above the surface which is very helpful. The only downside of the electric wheelchairs is the price, because it may cost up to a few thousand dollars, but you can always opt for used wheelchairs, since it is more affordable option.

Since most users like to add different accessories, you need to take this fact into consideration as well. While a manual wheelchair can be folded up and transported in a car easily, a power chair usually requires a vehicle wheelchair lift and often requires a larger vehicle, such as a handicap vans or SUV’s to make transportation easier.

Wheelchair accessible lifts

Wheelchair lifts have electrical or hydraulic operating systems and both models have their advantages and disadvantages. Hydraulic lifts have the advantage of working even when there is a power outage, and they will provide a smooth and fluid ride. On the other hand, electric lifts are cheaper, they are quiet and comfortable and can be fitted with automatic door openers and even telephone jacks. Make sure you choose one that has a battery for use in case of emergency. Stair lifts are very convenient, popular for home use and for accessing ordinary cars, and are easy for one person to operate. Automotive lifts can be quickly assembled and taken apart.

As you can see there are many decisions to be made and you should definitely take advantage of the internet, because you can do a thorough research and find out many important information. Every mobility dealer now has the entire inventory listed with all the specifications, features and prices, so before you actually go to a dealership, you will know what are you looking for.

Get latest models of power and manual wheelchairs at Better Life Mobility Center Los Angeles. Visit showroom in person or shop online at Better Life Mobility