Compare Options When Purchasing a New Power Wheelchair

Take the time to compare options when buying a power wheelchair; it is an important purchase and you need to take several factors into account. Different models are best for different disabilities, different spaces through which the user normally moves, and different budgets, including contributions from insurance or Medicare.

Electric wheelchairs offer mobility for the disabled without the strain of pushing a wheelchair. If you are unable to use a manual wheelchair because of your disability, an electric wheelchair may be the only option to achieve independent mobility. Many models of electric wheelchair come with a certain level of clearance, and are capable of crossing thresholds of up to three inches, permitting you to pass through raised doorways and making these products more useful than manual wheelchairs.

Travel wheelchairs make traveling more convenient, especially if you travel frequently. These lightweight models can be taken by car or airplane, disassembling or folding to save space. You can purchase a loading mechanism to put a heavier wheelchair in the back of a vehicle. A travel wheelchair may not be right for you if you do not travel frequently, or if you need a larger wheelchair for your weight, but wheelchair rental services are available for travelers.

If you weigh more than a certain amount, you may need a heavy-duty wheelchair. Wheelchairs can be purchased with varying maximum weight support; heavy-duty units can carry 400, 500, or even 600-675 pounds. An average electric wheelchair can carry 250-300 pounds. Heavy-duty wheelchairs are more expensive, but Medicare or insurance may cover the cost.

Some higher-end wheelchairs are not covered by Medicare or insurance. You should only buy one of these wheelchairs if you are not covered by Medicare or insurance, if you have the money to buy your favorite higher-end model, or if you physically require a specific model which is not covered. Some businesses will take care of the Medicare paperwork for you at no extra cost, so be sure to ask them which products are covered.

Power scooters are more economical, and can be an excellent choice for people with impaired mobility. These units are bulkier, and you may not be able to navigate them in your home, but if you can get around your own home using a cane, a power scooter can provide greater mobility outside. If you are disabled and are looking for an economic way to travel without having to push a wheelchair, you can use a power scooter and leave the wheelchair at home.

A power wheelchair is an important investment. You can't ask for a replacement from your insurance company or Medicare for several years after purchasing one, so make sure you get the one that best meets your needs. Ask your doctor or physical therapist for help in making this decision.

http://www.Wheel-Chair-Center.com is a website fully devoted to giving you the very best information regarding wheelchairs and wheelchair accessories. Whether you're looking to find the best wheelchairs available and you'd like to know your options with power wheelchairs, or you simply want to know the value of wheelchair cushions, we've got you covered!

Wheelchair Vans

The use of wheelchairs is a great help for disabled persons. These vehicles offer mobility to persons who endure restricted movement. This helps them lead an active and confident life. Wheelchairs offer stability and safety. They eliminate the need of having a person around at all times and even help the users to perform less strenuous, daily chores. Apart from providing mobility in and around the house, wheelchairs continue to assist users outdoors too. The need to transport the wheelchairs to other locations makes it necessary to opt for wheelchair vans. They are easy to use and can easily accommodate the wheelchairs and users.

Most of the time it is not necessary to purchase wheelchair vans, but families with members who have long-term disabilities may choose to buy them. There are numerous wheelchair van rentals that provide services all through the year. They are prompt and the users only need to call, to reserve the rental. People may even opt for daily, weekly or monthly rentals. They arrange for the pickup and professionals help to load and unload the wheelchairs. Users may choose to purchase used wheelchair vans, after checking the credibility of the source. Such deals prove to be profitable, since they are reasonably priced and cheaper than the new ones.

Wheelchair vans are similar to other vehicles and comply with the same production standards. At times, the vans have larger doors and boots, to provide optimum accessibility. They are fitted with easy to use wheelchair ramps or lifts. They have adequate wheelchair storage space, without compromising on the seating capacity. On the basis of the requirements, the vans may have lowered floors or raised roofs, to increase the space within. These vehicles have adequate room to seat other family members, during vacations, visits to the doctor or sporting events.

Wheelchairs provides detailed information on Electric Wheelchairs, Motorized Wheelchairs, Power Wheelchairs, Wheelchair Lifts and more. Wheelchairs is affiliated with Used Electric Wheelchairs.

A Father, His Son, and a Wheelchair

Fathers typically like to play sports with their sons. They play basketball, baseball, football, and participate in various other sports together. But one father/ son team has taken it to a new level.

Dick and his son, Rick, have participated over the years in 229 triathlons, 66 marathons- including 26 Boston Marathons, 212 10K races, 108 5K races, and many other races. They have also biked and ran across the US- 3735 miles- in 45 consecutive days. The accomplishments of this dynamic duo go on and on.

But that's only half of the story. You see, Rick Hoyt was born as a quadriplegic with cerebral palsy. He does not have the ability to speak. When a student in Rick's school was paralyzed, the school held a five mile race to raise money for him. Rick told Dick that he wanted to race. So Dick did race, all the while pushing Rick in his wheelchair. And with that first race, team Hoyt was born.

With the help of specially designed wheelchairs, and bikes, Dick competes in races with Rick in tow. For the running part, Dick pushes Rick in a special wheelchair. For the biking part, Rick rides on the handlebars of Dick's bike. And for the swimming part, Dick tows Rick in a raft behind him. Team Hoyt, as they're called, apparently inspire each other. Rick says his dad is his role model. Dick says that it's Rick that inspires him, "the way he just loves sports and competing."

Team Hoyt live in Massachusetts. Dick is retired lieutenant colonel in the Air National Guard. Rick works for Boston College in their computer laboratory. They travel together giving motivational speeches across the country. And, of course, they still race.

by Markay Auen.
I was researching an article for my website, http://medicalcushions.com/ when I came across the web site of these guys. I was so touched by their devotion to each other, I just simply felt compelled to write an article about them. They have really inspired me to strive to be a better person. You can learn more about Team Hoyt at http://teamhoyt.com/

Wheelchair Accessible Picnic Tables For Every Recreational Facility

When winter comes to an end and all that is beautiful blooms into season there are many anticipations that come to mind. Going to the park is always one outdoor event that I look forward to. I love feeding the ducks with my kids and having a football to toss back and forth. When it's time to take a break and have a delicious lunch we always look for the perfect spot and the perfect picnic table. I always get excited to eat outdoors with my children and watch them sneak a bite of food for those ever so wandering ducks and geese, they seem to love hovering around you waiting for that next bread crumb.

There have been many times that I would wonder about people that were wheelchair bound. I would look around to see whether they could sit and have a delicious lunch at a picnic table just like my family. Unfortunately I never saw wheelchair accessible picnic tables. What I did notice were accessible ramps for wheelchair bound people, restrooms and automatic door openers but no wheelchair accessible picnic tables.

Wheelchair accessible picnic tables can help facilitate not only those that are wheelchair bound but their families and loved ones as well. I would assume that every state and local park facility would want more visitors to enjoy their environment. Allowing accessible picnic areas should be a consideration for facility operators. Providing wheelchair accessible picnic tables can be an easy process especially since ADA picnic tables come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

There are 8 foot standard ADA picnic tables that allow accessibility on either end of the table. There are 46 inch round or square ADA picnic tables that are made with an attractive thermoplastic finish and a tubular steel under-structure. This protective coating is rust, corrosion and scuff resistant. This is of vital importance when you are looking for the best quality and most durable to the outdoors.

Another point to consider is whether you want all your outdoor picnic tables directly out in the sun. Place some accessible picnic tables in the shade for people who may be photosensitive. Sitting in the sun may increase the risk of health issues such as overheating, sunburns or other heat related illnesses. Certain medications or impairments may also increase sun sensitivity that could cause greater illness due to heat.

Provide information showing the location of these accessible areas. Information such as maps, brochures and signage should be placed at the entrances to prevent long searches for the accessible area. Always keep in mind that every individual is different. If you are sensitive to the needs of others you can guarantee a more enjoyable environment and a more visited facility.

For more information about Wheelchair Accessible picnic tables go to http://www.picnictableoutlet.com and see what a huge variety you have to choose from.

Fashion Designs for Women in Wheelchairs

Women in wheelchairs often find that their physical condition can severely limit their choices in clothing in addition to their mobility. Clothing is manufactured which is designed to be comfortable and easy to use for people with mobility problems, but there has been a tendency to design with a "one size fits all" approach, making clothing which cater to any kind of disability without taking style into account. Now designers are emerging who cater to women who want up-to-date fashion designed to be stylish and comfortable in a wheelchair.

Clothing designed for use in wheelchairs is generally made to accommodate any disability. This can be very important for people who suffer a lack of motor ability in their hands, as many wheelchair clothing manufacturers include Velcro seams with feaux buttons, making it possible to dress themselves independently. If you are able to use buttons, however, you may prefer a button-down shirt, but still want it to be designed to look good while you're in a sitting position. Clothing is usually designed to look its best when a person is standing or walking.

Clothing design for people in wheelchairs has been slower to evolve than wheelchair design. You can get a variety of wheelchairs to match any disability with any cause, but most wheelchair-appropriate clothing design is designed to be accessible to anyone. Clothing for men with mobility problems is usually very classical, including polo shirts, feaux button-down shirts, classic pants, jeans, or khakis with elasticized waistbands, and sport jackets cut a little shorter to look good in a sitting position.

This isn't as much of a problem because men's clothing design is more uniform to begin with. Women's clothing is much more complicated and varied. Women's wheelchair clothing, in addition to sometimes not having the option of excluding Velcro seams or other accommodations that, depending on your situation, you may not need, are often also very classical or even targeted towards senior citizens. Senior citizens make up a large part of the market for mobility products, and while there are older people who want to use up-to-date clothing, the stereotype is that they may have an antiquated fashion sense.

Designers are finally catching up with wheelchair fashion. There still aren't many sources of fashion clothing for people in wheelchairs but the market is expanding. These designers tend to focus on simply making clothing which looks good and is comfortable while sitting down, which may make them a tempting option for people who work in an office as well. Jackets are designed not to bunch up when a person is sitting down with the jacket buttoned, as are shirts and blouses. Pants are designed to accommodate your stomach in a sitting position, using elastic or loose-fitting waistbands, as are skirts, which are cut at a length which is tasteful and won't get caught in your spokes.

With new wheelchair fashion designers, women in wheelchairs no longer have to feel that they can't use up-to-date, fashionable clothing which looks and feels good.

http://www.Wheel-Chair-Center.com is a website fully devoted to giving you the very best information regarding wheelchairs and wheelchair accessories. Whether you're looking to find the best wheelchairs available and you'd like to know more about fascinating women in wheelchairs, or you simply want to know about some unique wheelchair accessories, we've got you covered!

A Review of Popular Electric Wheelchair Products

Several brands of electric wheelchairs are available both on and offline. With so many options to choose from, it is helpful to distinguish between the various features that each manufacturer and product offers. The following list of product and manufacturer reviews

Hoveround Electric Wheelchairs

Hoveround Corporation, founded in April 1992, is one of the leading Mobility device companies in the U.S. Hoveround designs, manufactures, sells, and services personal mobility vehicles like electric and manual wheelchairs, electric scooters and electric lifts. The company operates at a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, which has received the ISO 9001 certification for design, manufacturing procedures and distribution.

Hoveround supplies mobility devices directly to customers, insurers and other public and private entities. The company handles every aspect of the client's mobility needs, right from evaluation to prescription and provider approval, delivery, training and service. The company employs therapists, nurses, rehab technology suppliers and assisting technology practitioners to cater to all needs of the customers. The most popular of Hoveround's products are the highly maneuverable MP4 and the powerful Teknique XHD, which can carry up to 500 pounds.

Pride Electric Wheelchair

Pride Mobility is a leading provider of mobility equipment. Pride
Mobility is well known for its Pride and Jazzy lines of electric
wheelchairs, which are the most popular electric wheelchairs on the
market.

Pride Mobility Scooters include the Sundancer, Rally, Celebrity, Maxima, Victory and Legend models.

Pride Mobility Jazzy is the most popular brand of electric wheelchair from Pride Mobility. The Jazzy range is known for its patented mid-wheel drive system, exceptional maneuverability and trendy designs. Available in many different models, the Jazzy range promises maximum performance with standard active-track suspension and enables easy assembling and disassembling. Powered with motors, and having a speed range of up to 4 mph, the Jazzy electric wheelchairs offer exceptional maneuverability control. They are also extremely user-friendly and convenient, having been designed with a patented mid-wheel drive design.

Quantum Rehab is a line of customized power positioning systems and mobility products. It includes Power Recline, Power Elevating and Power Articulating Legrest options.

Lift Chairs are designed to fit into the home's decor and are available in luxury, gentle and casual lift modes.

Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMVs) have great mileage (up to 25 miles before recharge) and can be used for long rides -- even for golf.

The Hercules 3000 Lift is a power lift for wheelchairs with easy assembly and disassembly operations. The Hercules has a dynamic braking system and is provided with various docking devices that are suitable for any scooter or Jazzy.

Electric Wheel Chairs Info provides detailed information about electric wheelchair lifts and scooters, used electric wheelchairs, electric indoor wheelchairs, Medicare, electric wheelchair reviews, and more. Electric Wheel Chairs Info is the sister site of Scooters Web.

A Review Of The National Wheel-O-Vator and Stannah Wheelchair Stair Lift

Very few companies make genuine wheelchair stair lifts; Wheel-O-Vator and Stannah are two that make excellent stair lifts for wheelchairs. Both are have very similar features with some minor differences.

Just about all stair lifts comprise a mechanized chair that travel along a track that is mounted on to the stairs. These handicap stair lifts have improved the lives of many people who are handicapped or who have difficult walking up and down stairs. However, these stair lifts require that the person using them has the ability to lift themselves on and off the chair unaided. Unfortunately, for those who are wheelchair bound this is not usually possible and so chair stair lifts don't provide the solution to home mobility.

Wheelchair stair lifts can provide access to all floors but there are a number of issues and most domestic homes are unsuitable for these lifts. Most domestic stairways are too narrow to accommodate the platform and secondly, the track must be fitted on to a load bearing wall. But if the house is suitable then two companies provide inclined wheelchair stair lifts.

Features of the Pegasus inclined wheelchair stair lift from Wheel-O-Vator.

1. The bi-directional safety ramp sensors not only provide protection for the user of the Pegasus Handicap stair lifts, but also for other people on the stairway.

2. Each platform is custom measured and built for the exact requirement of the user.

3. The platforms folds up to clear the stairway using only a space of 12 1/2" from the wall.

4. The platform can turn inwards and outwards to fit all stairways shapes.

5. Access to the platform is from either the front or side.

6. The side access ramps on the platform lift up to secure the wheelchair.

7. The safety barrier arms and access ramps are mechanically locked and electrically monitored during travel.

Features of the Stairiser CR wheelchair stair lift from Stannah

1. The stair lift is fully automatic, with electrically controlled folding platform and barrier arms that lock into position when in use.

2. The platform will stop immediately when any obstruction is encountered.

3. Access to the platform is from either the front or side.

4. The side access ramps on the platform lift up to secure the wheelchair.

5. The platform folds away against a smooth rail when not in use, leaving ample room to allow others to use the stairway.

6. Fold down seats are available as an option.

7. The Stairiser CR can be used internally and externally.

8. The platform can turn both inwards and outwards.

9. There is a choice of 4 platform sizes.

10. The platform can carry a maximum weight of 225kg

Both the Wheel-O-Vator and Stannah wheelchair stair lifts require an onsite inspection. Installation can be quite quick depending on the stairway; a wheelchair stair lift can be fitted in 3-4 days on a straight stairway.

The features offered by both companies are more or less the same. Choosing which wheelchair stair lift to buy will ultimately come down to price and 'extras' that your local dealer offers you. Whether you eventually choose the -O-Vator and Stannah wheelchair stair lift you can rest assured you'll be buying an excellent product.

Following the links for wheelchair stair lifts and handicap stair lifts from Stannah Stair Lifts.