There’s no doubt that buying a wheelchair is an investment.
It is, in many ways, an extension of yourself and something you will be in constant contact with daily!
Various factors can affect how long your wheelchair will last, including choosing a manual or power wheelchair.
Below are some examples of aspects that can affect your chair’s longevity, as well as tips on maintenance to keep your investment rolling well into the future!
First, power chairs are built to last.
Durability should always be a key component of power chairs, designed to be used for five or more years without replacement.
However, that doesn’t downplay just how much a little maintenance can go a long way.
Due to the mechanical mechanisms in power chairs and generally more moving parts, they are more likely to need occasional repair.
However, many users see this as a small price to pay for the greatly increased freedom of mobility that a power chair offers.
Second, the activity level makes a difference.
Are you generally using your power chair around the home and indoor spaces?
Or are you more often taking to the streets, rolling over sidewalk cracks and down dirt roads regularly?
The amount and variety of use will require differing levels of maintenance and repair – a topic to keep in mind when choosing how to use your chair.
The longevity of wheelchairs battery.
The next part of the question, how long do wheelchairs last, is the battery life.
A major factor in a power chair’s usability and longevity is a reliable battery.
Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind when maintaining a strong battery and charge for your chair.
Please charge the battery each night, charging it completely and only with the charger specifically meant for your chair.
If you get a new battery, it’s advantageous to not let the battery’s charge drop below 30% for at least the first ten days of use, longer if possible.
Lastly, try to service your power chair regularly and before it’s in major need of repair.
Your chair should be serviced at least once a year, either by your chair’s provider or through your provider’s recommendation.
Servicing your chair should include things like brake checks, fine-tuning, realignment, and cleaning.
Not only will this increase the lifespan of your chair, but it’ll also help you to avoid finding yourself in an unfortunate circumstance with a broken-down power chair.
