A power wheelchair is another term for a motor-driven or motorized wheelchair, which is an alternative to a standard manual wheelchair that requires human power. A power wheelchair offers greater speed and mobility to people with injuries or disabilities that limit movement. It is usually recommended for people with permanent or long-term immobility.

Because a power wheelchair has more advanced features, you can expect it to be more expensive than a manual wheelchair. The cost can be anywhere from $5,000 to $30,000 for a really sophisticated unit. Fortunately, for those with Medicare insurance, they may be able to take advantage of a Medicare benefit that covers the cost of a purchasing a power wheelchair.

However, the wheelchair Medicare must determine first that the wheelchair use requires assistance with daily living activities such as bathing, grooming, and going to the toilet. The person must also be unable to use other mobility aids such as a cane, a walker or a manual wheelchair in order to qualify. Optionally, some private insurance companies can also cover a power wheelchair purchase.

One disadvantage of a typical power wheelchair, aside from being pricey, is that it cannot be folded. Therefore, when car traveled is needed a user must have enough space on his or her vehicle and if the user must travel by plane, he or she may need to purchase an extra manual wheelchair.

If you plan to get a power wheelchair for yourself or a family member, the user must first consult a physician because certain features may need to be modified to accommodate the user’s physical capabilities. For instance, if the user has no grip in the hands then the joystick control must be modified to allow some other functioning part of the body to operate the power wheelchair.

A power wheelchair has different features and sizes to accommodate anybody with the need to use this device. Comfort is a top priority and there are numerous wheelchair parts and accessories that can be added to the power wheelchair to offer greater support and comfort such as arm rests, seat covers, shower seats, wheelchair ramps and many others.

It is important to take extra care when operating a power wheelchair because this device can go at very high speeds. Always put on the manufacturer’s seat belt when using it. Be careful around children as they may mistake the joystick control unit for a toy and this can be very dangerous. Being aware of the surroundings and always proceeding with care will ensure safety for the user and others.