Portable Wheelchair Ramps: Doors To Independence

Those whose disabilities confine them to wheelchairs may be further limited because they cannot access parts of their own homes nor many public areas. But their dilemma has a solution, in the form of portable wheelchair ramps.

Portable wheelchair ramps, usually constructed from collapsible steel or aluminum, offer wheelchair users easy access to stairs and vehicles, making them essential traveling accessories. Portable wheelchair ramps are ideal options for those who do not want the expense installing permanent ramps in their homes, and allow the homeowner the luxury of having one ramp work in multiple parts of the house.

Portable wheelchair ramps were along time coming, simply because of the logistics involved in deciding appropriate slope ratios and weight tolerances. But as more and more disabled people began demanding increasingly independent lifestyles, wheelchair accessory manufacturers responded by designing portable wheelchair ramps to accommodate the individual needs of their customers.

Types Of Portable Wheelchair Ramps

The best-selling portable wheelchair ramps are the suitcase variety; these collapse to the size of a suitcase when not in use, and are usually large enough to cover one or two stairs when extended. But, even when collapsed, they remain somewhat awkward to manage, both because of their bulk and because of their average 41-pound weight.

The rolling ramp is a portable wheelchair ramp with a rather peculiar appearance. But its light weight and ease of use more than compensate for its odd looks. Its user simply finds a flat surface on which to unroll it, inverts it, and has an instant, strong ramp. Rolling portable wheelchair ramps are, in fact, both stronger and more stable than suitcase ramps.

For wheelchair users who use a van for transport, the Van portable wheelchair ramp installs quickly and will handle weights of up to weight hundred pounds. Van wheelchair ramps are constructed of lightweight aluminum and have non-skid surfaces.

Many people may decide to construct portable wheelchair ramps at home; but without being able to weigh them and test their strength they may end up whit results which are unusable, or have a disaster if they choose to use them. While homemade portable wheelchair ramps may seem like the least expensive options, the risk of danger outweighs their possible savings. Commercially produced and tested portable wheelchair ramps are simply safer.

As marvelous as wheelchairs are, they cannot by themselves bring independence to the disabled. Portable wheelchair ramps, and other wheelchair accessories, have been developed to bring new opportunities to wheelchair users, and if you'd like to find out just what wheelchair enhancements are available, you can start with an Internet search!

Learn more information on Manual Wheelchair and Motorized Wheelchair. Wheelchairsreview.com is a comprehensive resource to know more about Wheel Chairs.

Do You Need a Wheelchair But Don't Have the Strength For Manual? Consider an Electric Wheelchair

Some people need wheelchairs for the short term in order to recover from an accident, illness or injury. Others are permanently disabled and need assistance getting around all the time. Either way, an electric wheelchair could be the answer for you.

They are very high tech and not only are they powered by a joystick or other device, but you can adjust things like seating position with the touch of a button. They are easy to operate and provide independence from relying on a companion to push the chair, and are easy to use because they are powered by batteries and don't require arm strength to move around. However, there are so options on the market somebody may find the task of choosing one to be rather intense.

Electric wheelchairs are designed for different uses. They are either rear or front wheel driven. They're more maneuverable than electric scooters because they have a smaller turning radius. The additional conveniences over the manual version makes they decidedly more expensive, but you can often get financial assistance either through insurance, medicare or low interest financing. Whomever you purchase your through will run through the various payment options with you. Don't forget, electric wheelchairs are heavier than manual wheelchairs because their frame needs to be strong and stable to hold the motor and battery. This means that getting them in and out of a vehicle is also more difficult due to the added bulk and weight. You may need to consider getting a wheelchair lift if you are frequently in and out of a car or van.

These wheelchairs are available with a range of well over 20 miles and a speed of up to 6mph. They can also come with outdoor style wheels and tires more suitable for outdoor use.

For more information on electric wheelchairs lifts [http://www.safeelectricwheelchairs.com/electric-wheelchair-lifts.html] and parts for electric wheelchairs [http://www.safeelectricwheelchairs.com/electric-wheelchair-parts.html] please visit our website [http://www.safeelectricwheelchairs.com]

Wheelchair Accessories - Getting Loaded

Buying a wheelchair today is not very different from buying any other vehicle. There are basic "no frills" wheelchairs, which are perfectly capable of doing their jobs. Then there are the "loaded" wheelchairs, equipped with the buyer's choices of the many wheelchair accessories choices now available to add remarkable levels of comfort and convenience to wheelchair use.

One of the big wheelchair comfort items is, of course, the seat cushion. A properly fitted and constructed seat cushion is one of the essential wheelchair accessories; a poorly designed seat cushion will exacerbate poor posture and can lead to pressure sores.

A good wheelchair seat cushion encourages correct posture, which is a must for those suffering from difficulty in swallowing or neuromuscular impairment. Correct posture also assists both circulation and respiration, so a well-designed seat cushion is one of the wheelchair accessories with multiple positive benefits.

Ramps And Lifts

Although almost all public buildings are now wheelchair accessible, there are still many structures which have not been similarly modified and very few private residences can accommodate wheelchairs. There are wheelchair accessories, however, like portable wheelchair ramps, which allow wheelchair users to provide their own entry into previously restricted areas. Portable wheelchair ramps are ideal for getting wheelchairs into and out of vehicles and upstairs.

A wheelchair lift, on the other hand, operates much like an elevator and lets wheelchair users move from one floor of a building to another. These hydraulic wheelchair accessories allow users to be mobile even the event of electrical outages. There are less expensive electrically powered wheelchair lifts as well; while comfortable, they require a secondary source of power to keep them operational in a power failure. Other wheelchair accessories include stair and vehicular lifts.

Other Accessories

While wheelchair ramps and lifts are available in a wide variety, there are other kinds of wheelchair accessories to help you customize your wheelchair to your personal needs. They include such items as wheelchair restraints, used to secure your chair while you are traveling in a vehicle; wheelchair mounts to accommodate your laptop or other items; adjustable controls which can be either hand or voice-activated; and wheelchair locks or covers.

There are more wheelchair accessories intended to improve the user's comfort, including head and neck supports, back cushions, gloves, and protective elbow, leg, and arm padding. In short, there are as many wheelchair accessories bringing comfort, convenience, and safety to wheelchair users as there are upgrade packages for the world's finest automobiles!

You can also find more info on Wheelchair and Electric Wheelchair. Wheelchairsreview.com is a comprehensive resource to know more about Wheel Chairs.

Wheelchair Models

Wheelchair buying - what to consider:
It is always better to speak to your medical advisor first before purchasing a wheelchair. Add some good research to that and you can make an informed choice about wheelchairs.

General points to keep in mind are:
Weight
Design
Size
Capacity
Foldability
Location of power source in case of electric wheelchairs
Flexible back
Removable armrests, adjustable footrests
Seat width
Warranty
Cost

Wheelchair accessories:
Over time, wheelchair accessories have carved a niche for themselves in the market. You can upgrade your existing wheelchair, replace damaged parts, enhance both comfort, and function with modern wheelchair accessories. These are widely available online where you can also avail advice on fitting accessories to your wheelchairs.

Wheelchair availability:
You can buy a new wheelchair at affordable prices online or though nearest retailers. In case you are unable to move out of the house, most wheelchair websites list out wheelchair models along with pictures, prices, accessories and other details. All you need to do is pay online and have it delivered at your doorstep. Second hand wheelchairs are also an affordable option. For temporary disabilities, renting a suitable wheelchair is a better option.

Wheelchair safety:
Make sure you use safety belts and other safety accessories
Don't stretch the wheelchair's capabilities
Use wheelchairs appropriately. For example, Wheelchairs designed for indoor use may result in serious injury to both user and machine when used outdoors.

Insuring your wheelchair:
To avail insurance on your wheelchair, your physician is required to give a Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN) to be filed with the claim.

Wheelchair search:
Looking for good wheelchair options? Simply search for wheelchairs on any search engine on the Internet. Providers from all over the world will be waiting to serve you.

A disability need not be a devastating or confining. Live a free life - Get moving in your wheelchair!

For more information: http://www.mobilewheelchairs.com

Copyright © 2007-08 All rights reserved: http://www.mobilewheelchairs.com

Minimizing Your Need For Wheelchair Repairs

Wheelchair users are always concerned with the possibility of their wheelchairs breaking down when they have no when they are outside with no one around to help them. Those who have manual wheelchairs worry about flat tires, and those with motorized chairs have to think about not only flat tires, but also failing batteries. All of them, however, could minimize their chances of such bad luck by taking advance precautions to let them recover, should one of these difficulties arise.

The thought of a disabled person being able to perform an instant wheelchair repair may seem a bit far-fetched to some. But there are safety measures which wheelchair users can implement to help them through a breakdown even when they are on their won; a cell phone, for example, will guarantee that even if you have no help when your breakdown occurs, you will have some very soon thereafter.

Simple Safety Measures

Having a cell phone with you will enable you to get in touch with your wheelchair repair service or to call a friend or family member. But there are other safety precautions you can take; spare batteries for your motorized chair can be carried in a backpack; and if you are partially mobile, having a pair of crutches or a cane on hand can help you enough that you can get real help. Having your doctor's and insurance company's phone number, in case your wheelchair is covered for the cost of repairs, is also a good idea.

Heading Off Trouble

Periodically run a "diagnostic" on your wheelchair to spot any incipient problems: have one done at your wheelchair repair center about every six months. It's one way of heading of trouble before it has you stranded on your own after a breakdown. It will also keep your wheelchair performing at its best because the failure of one part, if left untreated, can often have a domino effect and send your wheelchair into a tailspin.

Being disabled is not fun under the best of circumstances; it can leave you feeling both frustrated and helpless. But there are things you can do to take control of your situation, and by being smart and preparing ahead of time, you can manage any unexpected occurrences without losing your cool.

It's your decision whether or not you let your disability really disable you, or become proactive in your approach to life. When you know how to prepare yourself for unexpected emergencies, you'll have the peace of mind you want and can focus your energies on living your life to the fullest.

You can also find more info on Used Wheelchairs and Wheelchair Batteires. Wheelchairsreview.com is a comprehensive resource to know more about Wheel Chairs.

What You Should Know About Your Wheelchair Battery Charger

One should realize that wheelchair battery charger must be fully operational in transferring electricity and its proper function. Find out how wheelchair chargers affect the efficiency of the battery is your primary concern.

An essential part of your powered wheelchair is the stored electric energy in your battery. It's the lifeline of your electric wheelchair as without it you cannot move into your desired position. It is very essential for everyday living especially for those who depend on their electric wheelchair as their primary source of transportation.

There are lost of newly designed batteries that can suit your need in electric wheelchairs. Wheelchair batteries are designed to be reused for a number of times. You must have a compatible charger on it for you can use it all over again. Three types of batteries are available in the market. First is wet, then gel and last is AGM. These different types of batteries must have specific chargers.

These chargers are classified into two types:

o Manual- requires constant supervision for it can permanently damage the battery in time if not plugged out after fully charged.

o Automatic- automatically monitors the charge in the battery and automatically shuts off if the battery is fully charged.

You must consider safety issues in using batteries before buying your preferred wheelchair battery:

o Sensors must probably be built into the charger and wheelchair to detect the connection between the wheelchair and the battery if it's correct.

o The wheelchair, charger, and the batteries may also be protected by using connectors that only allow proper connections.

o When you purchase a single purpose charger, the charger should match the charging configurations required by the battery.

o Purchased chargers must meet the power standard requirements of the local country's power supply.

o The wheelchair movements must become inoperable when the batteries are being charged.

o Lastly, a charger should not be left plugged in to the battery for over 24 hours as it can permanently damage the battery or can cause incidents like battery acid leaks or fire.

You must consult your local dealer to find out which charger will suit you best before purchasing your preferred wheelchair charger. Then if you already purchased what you need, read the manual first before using it. Follow all the directions for safety and can make your battery last longer. The manual also includes safety guidelines when charging the wheelchair battery.

If You Liked This Article, You Might Also Like My Other Must-Read Wheelchair Guides. Click Here: [http://WheelChairEasyguide.useful-tips.com]

Orignal Article Location:

What You Should Know About Your Wheelchair Battery Charger [http://wheelchaireasyguide.useful-tips.com/22/what-you-should-know-about-your-wheelchair-battery-charger]