Manual and Electric Wheelchairs

There are many things that can be used to help improve the mobility of a person who is mobility challenged, but the wheelchair has been, for decades, the most common type of mobility equipment available.

Manual wheelchairs are still very popular, and thanks to innovations during the 1920's and 1930's, today's manual wheelchairs are very compact, lightweight, and dependable. Electric wheelchairs have also changed significantly since the first Electric Klien Chair, which is named for its inventor George Klien.

The modern electric wheelchair is much more durable and rugged than the first electric wheelchairs developed during the 1950's. Many use a mid wheel drive system that helps increase stability and maneuverability. They also have a much larger range, with many able to travel over 20 miles on a single charge.

Most of these types of mobility vehicles still utilize the joystick control system, which can be configured for use on either side of the chair. While this is still the most common type of control, several other options are available for those that can not easily operate the control with their hands. There are also remote control devices available that allow the electric wheelchair to be controlled by a third party, such as a nurse.

The electric wheelchair is popular among those old and young, as well as those that have varied mobility. Many of those who could not operate a manual wheelchair, are allowed greatly increased mobility by using an electric wheelchair. Many of those who are able to operate a manual wheelchair, choose not to, because usually an electric wheelchair will generally provide much more functionality.

Maintaining an electric wheelchair does not generally require too much effort. One of the most important things is often the easiest and that is to make sure that you follow a proper charging regiment. If you use your electric wheelchair constantly throughout the day, then you will want to start charging it as soon as you are done and leave it charging all night. On the other hand, if you only use your chair once or twice a week, you will probably not need to charge the chair every night, but can likely get by only charging it every 3 or 4 days. Overcharging the chair or undercharging the chair can greatly reduce the life of the battery.

In addition to maintaining a proper charging regiment, it is also very important to check the battery connections periodically. You should be checking for loose connections and tightening any that you find. You should not experience corrosion, like you often see on a car battery, but if you do make certain you clean it away. A solution of baking soda and water is usually as effective as anything you could buy in a store to clean corrosion. Just apply the baking soda paste and let it sit on the corroded area for several minutes, before scrubbing the area with a small brush.

An electric or manual wheelchair can provide a great way to improve mobility and improve the independence and freedom of its rider.

Brad Brubaker is familiar with manual and electric wheelchairs To learn more about these and other types of mobility aids, visit US Medical Supplies

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brad_Brubaker