Powerchair
Guide
An electrically
powered wheelchair, (or powerchair), allows greater independence
for users who are unable to propel themselves in a manual
wheelchair. Usually controlled via a joystick style hand
control; powerchairs are available in different sizes, types
and power ratings.
Classification
Class 2 powerchairs (4mph) are normally only intended for
footway/pavement use, have a maximum speed of 4mph and an
unladen weight not exceeding 113.4kgs. These are not required
to be registered with DVLA.
Class 3 powerchairs (6-8mph) are those constructed or adapted
to be capable of exceeding a speed of 4mph, but incapable
of exceeding a speed of 8mph on the level under its own
power. Such powerchairs are for both road and pavement use.
They must also be fitted with a device capable of limiting
the maximum speed to 4mph for use when travelling on footways/pavements.
The unladen weight must not exceed 150kgs. These do required
to be registered with DVLA.
Features
There are many manufacturers producing high quality powerchairs
today, and most provide prescription based options on certain
models. Prescription based powerchairs provide the user
with a list of options that often include various seat sizes
, types, frame colours and control methods. It is therefore
very important that an individual be provided with a full
assessment, in order to ascertain which type and size of
chair is suitable.
Drive
Powered wheelchairs mainly fall into 3 categorires with
with regard to how they move. Those 3 are; front wheel drive,
rear wheel drive and mid wheel drive. Front and rear wheel
drive chairs normally have the benefit of more torque, but
the mid wheel drive propulsion allows for far tighter turning
circles. Its important to assess the importance of which
type of drive is best for your needs and the immediate environment.
Choosing
the right one
If you are considering a powerchair, then you may well be
looking at utilizing it for large parts of the day. Such
an item may be depended upon heavily, whether used indoors
or outdoors. You may also rely on the chair to provide you
with postural support and a comfortable seating position.
It is therefore very important that a lot of questions must
be asked before choosing a particular make and model.
Questions such as;
1. Will it be used indoors or outdoors?
2. If it is used outdoors, will it be on level terrain or
rough ground?
3. If it is used outdoors, will it be required to climb
kerbs?
4. If it is used outdoors, will it be required to climb
hills or gradients?
5. What drive should it have?
6. How far do I want to travel?
7. Will I need to transport it in a car?
8. Will it need to be able to be dismantled for transportation
in a vehicle?
9. If it needs to be dismantled, how heavy is it?
10. If it is used indoors, will it fit through my doorways?
11. Will I be sitting in the chair for long periods?
12. If I am sitting for a long period of time, will I also
need a pressure relieving cushion?
13. Will I need to have the seat of the chair altered for
my needs?
14. Will I need specially made legrests, a backrest or armrests?
15. Can I use it with ease?
16. Can I use it safely?
17. Will it need to be adapted in order for me to use it
safely?
18. Is it available in different colours and trim types?
19. How often will it need to be charged?
20. Does it display how much charge it has left?
21. Where will I store it?
22. Does it have to be serviced regularly?
23. Who will service it?
24. Does it fit within my budget?
A list of
questions this long may look daunting, but by asking them
you can truly have a good idea of which powerchair is right
for you. Our consultants here at HSC will go over these
questions with you, and more, during a personal assessment.
Assessment
A full assessment ensures that you know exactly which type
and model is suitable for your needs. We take you through
the controls of a particular powerchair, and instruct you
on the correct usage in accordance with the highway code.
Any powerchair
can become dangerous if used improperly, and especially
if the type of powerchair is wrong for the user. At the
very least, an assessment will give you the peace of mind
that you know which vehicle is best for you; and whether
you are able to control it safely. Finally, an assessment
is free. Our consultants are not paid on commission, and
therefore provide unbiased advice without any pressure to
purchase.
Servicing & maintenance
Many people mistakenly believe that powerchairs need very
little in the way of maintenance. This is incorrect, and
can lead to possibly dangerous consequences. At the very
least, an ill maintained powerchair can become unreliable
and temperamental.
Every powerchair features a braking system, as well as electronic
controls and motors. Regular servicing and maintenance will
spot and rectify any problems in these areas, and ensure
that the chair is in tip top working order for day to day
use.
Our
commitment to you
As members of the BHTA, we will provide you with the best
advice we can; and leave you to make up your own mind. Go
on, pick our brains; that’s what we’re here
for.
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