Power wheelchairs are vehicles operated by electric motors that get the electricity they need from powerful, rechargeable traction batteries. The range of electric wheelchairs is very wide today and can be found at places like Sky Medical Supplies in Denver, each product offering special benefits, but here are the must-have features to look for before you buy a wheelchair for your elderly parent:
- Range – look for a wheelchair that offers extended range. The standard range that electric wheelchairs can cover on a single battery charge is usually around 15 miles;
- Comfort – the size and the cushioning of the seating surface and of the backrest and the size of the leg rest are essential for the comfort of the user;
- Easy control – many elderly people suffer not only from health problems that prevent them from walking, but from conditions that affect their dexterity as well. Make sure that the wheelchair that you buy is safe for your elderly loved one to use – the controls, especially the brake should be easy to operate;
- Foldability – many modern products can be folded for storage – if you have limited space available, look for a foldable chair;
- The turning radius – the wheelchair should be easy to navigate even in tight spaces and should be able to turn in a circle with a small radius, too.