Advantages And Disadvantages Of Power Wheelchairs

Advantages and Disadvantages of Power Wheelchairs

Power wheelchairs have greatly increased in popularity among elderly and disabled individuals.  You may also hear power wheelchairs referred to as electric wheelchairs.  Just like any other wheelchair style or brand, power wheelchairs have their advantages and disadvantages. 

The most obvious advantage to owning a power wheelchair is that they are easy and convenient.   Although power wheelchairs do have an electric motor, they are still controlled by the individual in the chair.  Depending on the model, some power wheelchairs are controlled by the hands and others may even be controlled by the mouth or other workable body parts.  This feature is very important for someone who may not have full use of their hands or arms. 

The fact that there are so many varieties of power wheelchairs available is another big plus.  There are thousands of wheelchair companies, online websites, and stores that sell power wheelchairs and other styles.  Individuals of all ages, shapes, and sizes can end up needing a wheelchair at one point in their life.  For this reason, wheelchair manufactures tend to customized chairs or provide a large variety of different styles for each power wheelchair model.  Individuals of all weight and heights should be able to find a compatible power wheelchair. 

Although power wheelchairs do have some disadvantages, many of them can be turned into advantages with extra money or additional features.  Typically a power wheelchair will not fold up or come apart.  Most individuals who need to travel may not have a van or larger vehicle to store the power wheelchair; therefore they will have to make other plans.  You may have to purchase an additional manual wheelchair for trips.  Another option would be to spend more money on a power wheelchair and purchase one that folds ups or will disassemble fairly easily.  The fold up power wheelchairs are available in most stores; however, they can cost quite a bit more than traditional power wheelchairs. 

Even since power wheelchairs have increased in popularity, there are still many disabled, injured, or elderly individuals who are unable to purchase a power wheelchair.  The number one reason why an individual who would like to purchase a power wheelchair cannot is due to financial reasons.  Before purchasing a power wheelchair or completely ruling one out, it is important to speak with insurance or Medicare representatives.  Many individuals are not aware of the fact that if a wheelchair is advised by a doctor, it may be fully or partial covered by the two. 

Power wheelchairs are not only handy but comfortable too.  Many power wheelchairs somewhat resemble comfortable computer chairs.  Whether a power wheelchair is the best option will depend upon the needs of the individual in question.  Although they do not always come cheap, power wheelchairs are comfortable, easy, and safe for everyone to use.