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Choosing an Electric Wheelchair For Elderly People If you're in the market for an electric wheelchair that can be carried around there are a variety of options. A majority of them are travel friendly, meeting government requirements for car and airline transportation. Your doctor will conduct a home assessment and prescribe the chair as medically needed to allow Medicare to cover its cost. Then, you will be able to select an option from a provider and purchase the wheelchair. Comfort The most effective electric wheelchairs for seniors offer comfort and the latest technology to give you a sense of independence. As a tool for mobility it allows adults to remain active and engaged in their surroundings and maintain healthy relationships with their family and friends, as well as with the community, and improves overall quality of their life. The world of mobility aids is a vast and unexplored area, and selecting a new chair for many may be a challenge. Luckily, there are many options to help make the process a little more simple. Begin by searching for a chair that has variable speed settings that can be adjusted to suit the environment. A reclined chair to provide extra comfort is a bonus. Finally, a variety of add-on accessories, including cups, food trays oxygen tank holders and upgraded seating, could be included on a majority of models. Electric powered wheelchairs (EPWs) are battery-operated mobility devices with 4-6 wheels, depending on the design and model of the chair. They're commonly used by people who cannot walk due to illness, injury or a weakness due to age. Today, EPWs span from small, portable wheelchairs that can fold and disassemble to huge fully-featured wheelchairs. The joystick is positioned on the armrest. Alternative input devices are also available for those who are unable to use their hands or lack coordination. Medicare covers the majority of electric wheelchairs. However, the type and level of coverage depends on your specific circumstances. These devices are covered under Medicare Part B, the durable medical equipment category (DME) that reimburses up to 80% of the cost of a wheelchair or scooter that is in compliance with certain government requirements. To be eligible, your doctor must provide an approved prescription for the item and verify that it meets government requirements. Medicaid waiver programs are offered by certain states that have similar guidelines and policies for those who qualify. If you're unsure about how to qualify, talk with your physician or contact your state's Medicaid office for more details. Additional financial assistance is available through private companies like Veteran's Affairs or state-based programs. These sources can provide you with a free or discounted wheelchair as in addition to ongoing support to ensure long-term use and maintenance. Mobility A motorized chair is an excellent mobility tool for older adults who aren't able to propel themselves in a manual wheelchair over long distances or for all time. This could be due to reduced strength, endurance or coordination. A wheelchair with an electric motor allows them to go out into the community and take part in things like shopping visiting friends or family or attending events, as well as other errands. Powered chairs run on batteries and controlled with the joystick or other input devices like chin controls or puff/sip scanners. The joystick can be used to alter speed and direction and it can also be used to control other functions, for example, a horn or the indicator of battery status. The batteries can be rushed or brushless and the power is delivered to the drive wheels via the controller. The wheel type is another important factor, as it influences maneuverability and driving capabilities. Most power chairs are classified into three categories based on the number of drive wheels: mid-wheel, front-wheel and rear-wheel. A mid-wheel model has two large wheels in the middle, and four smaller wheels on the front and back, which results in great stability and maneuverability. Its turning radius is small, making it the ideal choice for those who need to navigate narrow spaces and doorways. Seniors who are interested in getting an electric wheelchair may apply for Medicare coverage under Part B, which covers durable medical equipment. However, eligibility is based on a prescription by a doctor, and the wheelchair must be medically required. electric powered wheelchair must also be able to use it safely and have someone available to assist them with it. Seniors can also think about other options in addition to Medicare and Medicaid, like VA financial assistance or state-based programs that provide financial aid to older adults. They should consider the pros and cons of each alternative to determine the one that is best suited to their particular situation and needs. For instance If they live in an apartment and aren't able to drive to the shop it might be a good idea to consider moving to a senior living center that offers apartments and amenities specifically designed with accessibility and security in mind. This will ensure that their new wheelchair will be a good fit for them. Safety A wheelchair can be a valuable option for seniors who suffers from mobility limitations, but it can also be dangerous if not used properly. Seniors who use power chairs must follow a few safety guidelines to ensure both their safety as well as the safety of others around them. For example, seniors should avoid moving their wheelchairs with force onto curbs or steps because they could cause them to tip over. They should also stay clear of crossing roads while their wheelchairs are moving as it could result in a collision that could end with serious injuries. A wheelchair with an electric motor can be an ideal way for seniors to get around, but it is important that they are able to safely operate it. Certain seniors may not be able to operate their wheelchairs on their own, so they should seek out the help of an occupational therapist or another medical professional. It is also essential to observe the health and condition of the wheelchair to ensure that the wheelchair is safe for use. If the wheels aren't aligned properly the chair could veer sideways and tip over when they are operating moving at a high speed. It's also a good idea check the battery regularly to ensure it doesn't go out of battery suddenly. Another crucial aspect to consider is how it is easy to maintain the electric wheelchair for elderly people. To maximize the lifespan and efficiency of a powerchair, it's essential to conduct regular maintenance, including checking the wheels, tires and bearings. It is also important to ensure that the batteries are fully charged to avoid charging too high and causing damages. Electric wheelchairs are usually powered by batteries which can be recharged in the night. It can have front, mid-wheel or rear-wheel drive. The speed is controlled with keys or joysticks on the armrest. Some chairs are designed for indoor use, whereas others are made to be used outdoors and include features such as a rugged exterior. Some power chairs have features such as sip and puff controls, which are controlled by inhaling/exhaling into tubes. Ease of Use A power wheelchair can make a big difference in mobility. This is because it lets them remain independent and continue to do the things they love such as to the shops or visiting friends. It also helps avoid accidents that could lead to a loss of independence, decreased quality of life, and even death. There are many different kinds of electric wheelchairs, and determining which one is the best one for you will be based on your particular needs and preferences. There are chairs that can be folded or disassembled to make it easy to store in the trunk of your car, and there are larger chairs that have more features to provide stability and support over longer distances. You should also consider the size and style wheels, the seating configuration, (some have captain's chairs as well as sling-style seating) as well as the type of battery and capacity. Some wheelchairs feature free wheel modes, which allows the chair be pushed manually when the battery gets depleted. Some seniors may be eligible for a low-cost electric wheelchair thanks to Medicare, Medicaid, and other financial assistance programs that are not Medicare. However, they'll need to navigate a complex set of criteria to determine their eligibility. In general, they must visit a physician and prove that their mobility issues cannot be addressed with other devices, like the walker or cane or a manual wheelchair. The doctor will make a medical note for an electric wheelchair. Additionally, certain Medicare beneficiaries with mobility issues can obtain an electric wheelchair as part of Part B of the coverage for durable medical equipment (DME). This is because the wheelchair is medically essential and can directly impact their ability to carry out daily activities such as eating, getting around and bathing. Furthermore, some seniors might be eligible for a wheelchair under Medicaid waiver programs that have their own specific guidelines regarding DMEs. To determine whether you're eligible to receive a wheelchair, contact your state's Medicaid agency for more details.