Choosing between a manual and a power wheelchair is an important decision and is often guided by style, performance, and special features.
An article from the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, says “In some ways, a wheelchair is like a bicycle: There are many designs and styles to choose from including imports, lightweights, racing models, etc..”
It is important to look at the advantages and disadvantages of both types of wheelchairs before determining which will be most beneficial to the user.
Manual Wheelchairs
Manual wheelchairs have several advantages.
They are easy to transport and easier to navigate in tight spaces.
These wheelchairs require little maintenance and do not depend on charging or technological capabilities.
For users with the upper body strength to propel forward independently, the manual wheelchair can improve cardiovascular and muscular health.
These wheelchairs are straightforward to use.
Conversely, manual chairs rely on upper body strength and can put significant strain on your back, shoulders, and neck.
These wheelchairs require strength and balance.
They also make it much more challenging to travel long distances or to go up slopes.
Power Wheelchairs
Power wheelchairs come in various styles and have many different features that make it easy to customize them to meet your needs.
These wheelchairs can be used in any scenario or on any terrain.
Users require little strength or stamina to travel longer distances with ease.
Most electric wheelchairs include reclining and tilting options for greater pressure relief.
The size and weight of the power wheelchair make it sturdy and reliable.
The weight serves as an advantage and prevents the front from backing or siding to side tipping.
Electric mobility wheelchairs need charging, but when properly charged, they provide energy and constant power.
There are several types of electric wheelchair batteries, so selecting the right battery for your electric mobility wheelchair can make all the difference in the length of time you can use your chair on a given charge and the level of power generated to propel you.
They are also reliable when it comes time to stop moving.
Accidental rolling can occur in a manual wheelchair but can be avoided with a power wheelchair.
Lifestyle
Your lifestyle should be taken into consideration when determining which power wheelchair will best meet your needs.
Your daily routine and independence level plays a huge role in the decision as well.
These electric mobility devices are customizable to meet all of your mobility needs and come in various styles.
It is important to have a relationship with a repair company like TOUSDA Solutions, to help with maintenance and repairs of the wheelchair.
This will ensure the long-term safety and reliability of your power wheelchair.
