Just like you have various types of shoes to choose from according to usage, or regular wheelchairs for that matter, the same applies to the various kinds of motorized wheelchairs that you can choose from. In this article, we will see on what basis you should choose your electric wheelchair. Let’s get started!

1. Portable vs. Full-Size vs. Heavy Duty Wheelchairs

Do you need a portable wheelchair if you are going to travel by car a lot or do you need an electric wheelchair for domestic use only? Based on this there are three options available to you.

Portable Wheelchair

These wheelchairs can be disassembled and assembled as and when needed. They are smaller in comparison to other types and have less padding, but are great for use in apartments, malls or anywhere where you need to carry it along. It comes with a weight of about 300 pounds.

Full-Size Wheelchair

For those who need a wheelchair for using the whole day, a full sized one is the best option. They have larger seats, better padding, and great armrests and footrests. It needs to be regularly charged and has an average weight of 300 pounds.

Heavy Duty Wheelchair

For those people who weigh more than 300 lbs, a heavy duty wheelchair is needed. The wheels and the wheelchair as a whole would be bigger for maintaining the weight, it has a capacity of 450 lbs, some heavy duty wheelchairs can even support weights up to 1,000 pounds.

2. Front Wheel vs. Mid Wheel vs. Rear Wheel Drive

There are three types of drive systems you can choose from, based on your usage pattern.

Front Wheel Drive

These lightweight electric wheelchairs maneuver well over small obstacles. They can turn around well in tight spaces and within homes. Though they have good stability, they can malfunction if used at high speeds.

Mid Wheel Drive

These are great to use in places where space is limited as it has the best turning radius. They can be maneuvered well indoors and in flat spaces but cannot be done well outdoors or in places with rough terrain.

Rear Wheel Drive

Rear wheel drive wheelchairs are best suited for those times when you want to explore the outdoors. You also get great maneuverability with these chairs, letting you drive them even at high speeds. However, these are not meant for indoors, as they do not have larger turning radiuses.

3. Indoor vs. Outdoor Wheelchair Use

The next thing you’ll need to consider is whether the wheelchair will be used indoors or outdoors, as this will greatly impact the features you’ll need.

Indoor Use

Ensure that your wheelchair can fit comfortably in all the doors of your house. This includes the armrests and the wheels that protrude from the chair. The chair should also be able to make 90 degree turns in the house when needed. The wheelchair should also be able to maneuver in the toilet and bathroom well without the tires skidding. If you have stairs at home, you can also consider using a wheelchair lift that can bear the weight of yourself and the chair while transporting you to the higher floors.

Outdoor Use

This depends on the terrain that the electric chair is subjected to. Wheelchairs with large and wider wheels are perfect for rough terrain while if it is a mixed-use wheelchair, you can consider using a porch lift to use the wheelchair both indoors and outdoors.

4. Other Considerations

Generally, most people are confined to their wheelchairs all the time.  If you are going to use the wheelchair extensively, you do need to ensure that it lasts well and that it is made with the best quality parts. It should also manage the posture of the user while providing the ultimate comfort to them. Caregivers should also be able to handle the wheelchair well- the person in the wheelchair should be able to change his or her posture in the chair for proper blood circulation.

Tilting the chair: Along with the ability to move around, the chair should also be able to tilt a little for reaching things.

Reclining: Just like how a car’s seat reclines, a motorized wheelchair’s seat should recline a little for comfort.

These are the main criteria that you must look into before investing in a motorized wheelchair. This is a big investment, as you are going to use it on a daily basis. Once you choose the right wheelchair, you can regain your confidence to be mobile, as against being immobile if you were confined to a bed for a long time.