Electric Power Chairs

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The wheelchair is a mobility aid that has been used by mankind for many thousands of years. Much of the wheelchair design that can be seen today is as a result of several models patented during the early 1900's. Many people today depend on wheelchairs to allow them to move around freely and easily.

Wheelchairs allow people to retain their mobility in a manner that allows them to go almost anywhere their heart desires. Manual wheelchairs, while still frequently used, are slowly being replaced by electric powered wheelchairs. Their recent popularity has in large part due to advances in technology which have increased the range and reliability of the electric wheelchair.

One of the major advantages of manual wheelchairs is their maneuverability, but they require a lot of effort to move or require a caregiver to move them. This makes them not so good of a match for many people. An electric powered wheelchair is usually controlled by a simple hand control mounted on the armrest. There are several other control systems available for people who can not use hand controls. One of the most innovative control systems makes use of the rider's breath to control the chair.

Many electric power wheelchairs utilize a mid-wheel propulsion system. This greatly improves the devices maneuverability and stability. These types of wheelchairs usually have two larger wheels mounted in the middle and a pair of stability wheels mounted in the front and rear of the device. The larger middle wheels are what actually propels the unit and allows it to turn easily and in tight quarters. There are also many that use a more traditional 4 wheeled system that also allow excellent maneuverability and stability.

Most have a range that is between 10 and 20 miles, but some are able to travel over 25 miles per charge. They are capable for use over outdoor terrains or indoors. While very maneuverable and easy to use, it is typically necessary to purchase a wheelchair carrier for your car if you intend to take the device away from your home. There are a few easy to install wheelchair carriers that can be installed onto the hitch of a vehicle. Other lifts, called interior vehicle lifts, are installed into the trunk of a vehicle. These internal vehicle lifts can also be installed in the mid portions of a passenger van.

If you intend to do a lot of traveling and flying, it might be in your best interest to invest in a portable power chair. These types of electric wheelchairs look similar to a manual wheelchair, but have smaller wheels and an electric propulsion system. Like manual wheelchairs though, portable power chairs can be folded easily and in a similar manner. This makes them great for taking on vacation or traveling.

An electric power wheelchair is a very powerful and useful medical aid that has been changing and evolving for over 50 years. They are used by many people today who can not easily use a manual wheelchair or prefer not to and for these people an electric power wheelchair is an excellent choice.

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