Buying Your First Power Chair: Important Things to Know

Here are a few important things to know when you are buying your first power chair. If you are an individual who's independence, is relied on with having a power chair, there are some things to take into consideration before purchasing one. Whether is it for temporary or long term use, this will be a means of mobility. For some people, the traditional wheel chair just isn't compatible with their needs. Power chairs are used for every day tasks, running errands, and mostly as important to just be able to get around in a home a lot easier.

First important thing to think about when looking for a power chair is how long will you be using this chair and how many hours will you be sitting in it. Seating is an important issue to consider with purchase whether for short or long term use. For surgeries such as Hip replacement, a power chair may be needed for only a year or two, or until you are completely rehabilitated. For others, this is possibly a life long friend. You will need to measure your hips to determine which seat will be most comfortable. Think about the thickness of clothing you will be wearing, if you need to have a blanket or pillow under a leg at times, or do you want just some extra inches on each side for you to be able to adjuster your seating.

You will also need to take into consideration the height of a power chair. If you are a tall individual then the chair needs to be adjusted for accuracy. Make sure your pant legs or clothing will not be caught up in the wheels of the power chair. That can become a safety hazard. Do not forget, if you will be reaching for items, moving things, or doing any activity in this chair, height and width need to meet your needs.

Cost is also extremely important when purchasing a power chair. You may want to look into a used one if there are financial difficulties or if it will only be needed for a short time. Check with your health insurance plan to see if a power chair is covered. If you are an individual who may be on Medicare or Medicaid, check with different stores to see who accepts this form of insurance. There may be financing opportunities available as well. Some thrift stores may have used power chairs to buy even cheaper for the time being.

Last but not least is power, which to choose electric or motorized. Since this is not your traditional "push" wheelchair, it is important to know which one will be more of an economical fit. You may need to either replace batteries often or use your electrical outlet in your home to charge your power chair. This can increase the cost of your electric bill. Also see which one takes more upkeep on mechanics or in ways to take care of the battery.

A power chair can give you the freedom you need with out having to reply on others heavily, or even at all. Take into consideration all the above in making the best decision to fit your lifestyle. When looking for a power chair, even if you are in a rush, make sure you will be completely satisfied with the power chair and you will be on the road to independence quickly.