Wheelchairs come in different styles

A wheelchair ramp may be used for electric wheelchairs; just be sure to get one that accommodates the width of your chair. When you use public transportation, as well as when you drive your own car, the chair will have to be secured while traveling. When children are severely injured they might face critical, debilitating accidents that impair their mobility. Wheelchairs offer mobility in a light package and now, they can be electric for increased mobility. Information about used electric wheelchairs can be found online or on a bulletin board in your physicians office. When you choose not to use the chair for an extended period of time, make sure the maintenance is still kept up on it.

When you see an able-bodied individual walking down the street you notice various things, but they will notice you in an electric wheelchair too. Electric wheelchairs are here to allow people to freely roam the streets and visit all of their favorite places without any complications. A variety of electric wheelchairs used and old may be purchased at most wheelchairs stores and on ebay for a affordable price. Information about used electric wheelchairs can be posted online, along with the general information about the chair.

When individuals are negotiating lifts and doorways for new environments, wheelchairs are an important consideration. Important factors to keep in mind while choosing an electric wheelchair; is the range of movement ability of the user. When you need a tour of a facility, be sure you advise them of your electric wheelchair status to ensure the area is accessible. When selecting wheelchairs people may choose from a variety of available options and features in this day and age. Wheelchairs offer a chair bound individual a freedom that was never within their reach before. Electric wheelchairs can be folded, this makes them easier to store in your automobile and in your home.

A wheelchair is a wheeled mobility device in which the user sits in and places his or her feet on two small folded down foot rest; this device allows them to move around freely. When people are eager to explore more energy-efficient modes of transportation, electric wheelchairs are in that category for physically challenged. Fortunately, electric wheelchairs are maneuvered by a joystick; this makes it easier for those who are lacking strong upper body strength. Important factors to consider when choosing a wheelchair is the type of terrain and the general weather it can hold up in. Wheelchairs allow the users to lead an independent and confident life as they are able to continue getting around in public again.

Travel Tips for People Who Use Wheelchairs

These tips are from the Access for Disabled Americans Web site (www.accessfordisabled.com):

1. If you are able to fly first class, go for it -- more room and lot more enjoyable. If not, try to get the first bulkhead seats; they are closer to the front of the aircraft and they give you more room if you should have spasms.

2. If possible, book a nonstop flight. You'll have fewer problems with a wheelchair. If you can't, always allow at least 45 minutes for connecting flights. Some wheelchair travelers prefer to have a change of aircraft for an hour or so. It gives them time to relax, get something to eat, stretch or use airport restrooms.

3. If possible, travel with an attendant to help with transfers, your meals or to shift your weight around. Carry an "emergency bag" on the airplane; it should hold daily necessities, a change of clothing, medication, tools for your wheelchair and any other items you would need if your baggage doesn't arrive when you do.

4. If traveling in a power-driven wheelchair, be sure that you have gel-cell batteries. They're less hassle. Some airlines refuse to carry wet-cell batteries -- too dangerous -- and they will ask. They may require a form to be filled out.

5. Wheelchair passengers are the first to board and the last to get off. You can stay in your wheelchair until you get to the gate; you'll transfer to an "aisle chair" -- a narrow high-back chair with no sides and straps to hold you in. If you have assistance and were able to snag the first bulk-head seat, you can be carried from your wheelchair to the seat.

6. Your wheelchair will be loaded into the baggage compartment. Be sure airline personnel know how to handle it. Are there detatchable parts? Remove them and put them in a carry-on bag. Or tape a list of instructions on the wheelchair. Always put the wheelchair in manual for easier pushing and less danger to your power unit. Many wheelchair travelers remove the power unit since it is the most important part of the wheelchair.

7. Before the aircraft leaves the ground, ask the airline attendant to make sure your wheelchair was loaded in the aircraft. If you make a connecting flight, ask that your wheelchair made the same change.

8. If you are connecting to another flight and have a few hours, tell airline personnel you would like to have your wheelchair brought to the gate for the layover. You will be much more comfortable in your own wheelchair

Recommended Reading

A booklet -- "New Horizons for the Air Traveler With a Disability" -- is very handy and free. Order from the U.S. Department of Transportation/Consumer Affairs Dept.

400 Seventh St. SW, Washington, DC 20590; 202-272-2004.

Power Wheelchairs

Power Wheelchairs

Power wheelchairs require far less physical exertion to operate than manual wheelchairs. Since power wheelchairs have far more machinery than manual wheelchairs, they tend to be much heavier and therefore you may need an adapted van or accessible public transportation for your powered wheelchair. That should be taken into consideration ahead of time.

Still, power wheelchairs have enormous advantages, not the least of which is the ability of the user to conserve energy that would otherwise be exerted for propulsion. Power wheelchairs can handle practically any terrain, and they can easily travel uphill--unlike their manual counterparts. For those with limited physical strength, partial paralysis, joint pain or those who tire easily, a power wheelchair can make the difference between a life of total dependence and personal freedom.

Choosing a Power Wheelchair

When choosing which type of power wheelchair is right for you or your family member, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Check out the width for clearance in your home, whether it is designed for indoor use, outdoor use or both, and how much weight the chair will hold. It's important to find a power wheelchair to fit the user and the user's needs.

At All Time Medical, we have several different power wheelchairs available. All of our brands are well known and reputable. Whether you want a traditional-style power wheelchair or one with a power base and mounted seat, we can accommodate your needs.

Visit us at http://www.alltimemedical.com/, and take a look at some power wheelchairs.