Technology has evolved to the extent that specialized wheelchairs used for activities such as paragliding or tennis exist in the current market, and electric wheelchairs have taken great strides in improving the mobility and agency users have over themselves. Keeping all this in mind, picking the correct wheelchair can be a daunting task considering the vast variety of models on the market. So, what are the factors that you should keep in mind when picking the best electric wheelchair for your loved one?
Customization
Customizing the wheelchair can improve the comfort of users based on their individual preferences. These changes can provide better support over long periods, and can even improve body posture, avoiding long-term muscular injuries that arise from slouching on the seat. Waterproof materials can be adopted if users constantly commute outdoors, and backrests and cushioning can be modified to fit their respective needs. Besides, customizing the wheelchair through unique decals can allow users to express their unique brand of individuality!
If you intend to prioritize customization options in the wheelchair for your loved one, consider picking an electric wheelchair from Quickie as they provide a wide array of customization options found exclusively in their products. Ranging from cosmetic to power in their custom changes, Quickie electric wheelchairs should be considered if a personal touch is highly valued.
Warranty
Most electric wheelchairs only offer “limited” warranties, whereby it often only covers technical difficulties and does not extend to the wear and tear of the wheelchair. Some warranties cover damage to structural components, such as the frame of the wheelchair, but these warranties tend to be very limited in length when compared to other components of the wheelchair.
If you value peace of mind when picking the best electric wheelchair for your loved one, consider the line of electric wheelchairs offered by Drive Medical. Also known as Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare, their wheelchairs come with one of the most generous warranties available on the market. Few electric wheelchairs come with warranty coverage for around five to ten years, but Drive Medical offers a limited lifetime warranty on the basic structural components of the chair, with a variety of the other parts being covered for a number of months. Seeing the importance of these mobility devices for users who need them, consider Drive Medical electric wheelchairs if reliability is highly valued.
Medicare
If your loved one is eligible for this federal health insurance program, consider a wheelchair that accepts Medicare for payment. Medicare provides funding for electric wheelchairs to those who have disabilities hindering their daily activities, but a prescription from a Medicare doctor is required. Medicare Part B provides 80% of the coverage for an electric wheelchair, but this entitlement would be entirely up to the discretion of the doctor. Sometimes Medicare would opt to provide coverage for a rental instead.
If you intend to utilize Medicare in procuring an electric wheelchair, consider Hoveround Electric wheelchairs. They offer two chair models that are approved by Medicare for eligible patients, and their employees are equipped with the necessary skills to determine your eligibility for this subsidy.
Give Your Loved Ones The Care They Deserve
The experience of watching a loved one suffer from physical decline is heart-rending, to say the least. While the decision to put a loved one in a retirement community is certainly difficult, it is of paramount importance that the appropriate professional care is provided to them.
If you are seeking a vibrant community for your loved ones to call home, our team of professionals is well equipped to handle their needs. Feel free to contact us for any further information!