Power Wheelchairs: Weighing the Benefits and Costs

Finding the Right Power Wheelchair

A power wheelchair is a major investment, and you need to take the time to find the right model for your needs. Take into account the nature of your mobility impairment, the environment you’ll need to navigate, and your budget and what insurance or Medicare will contribute.

If you are disabled, an power wheelchair can help you get around without having to push the wheelchair yourself. Depending on your disability, you may be unable to push yourself in a wheelchair and an electric wheelchair will allow you to move independently. It can also save you the strain of having to push yourself in a manual wheelchair. Power wheelchairs can be more efficient in some ways; certain models can cover thresholds of two to three inches allowing you to more easily pass through some doorways.

If you travel a lot you may want to consider buying a power travel wheelchair. These models are lightweight and can fold up or be disassembled to easily fit in a car, or even be transported by plane. If you do not travel often or if your weight does not permit the use of a travel wheelchair, you can also use wheelchair rental services when you travel. Machines are also available to help lift heavier wheelchairs into automobiles.

Heavy-duty wheelchairs are available for people above a certain weight. An average wheelchair carries up to 250 or 300 pounds, but heavy-duty wheelchairs come with weight limits of 400, 500, or up to 675 pounds. These options are less economic, but in some cases, can still be covered by insurance or Medicare.

Insurance or Medicare can pay for all or part of the cost of an power wheelchair. Some models are covered by neither, so unless you really prefer and can afford a higher-end model, have no coverage, or if your physical needs require a model which is not covered, you should limit your choices to those models which are covered by your insurance or by Medicare. When you are shopping for an electric wheelchair, this should be one of the questions you ask. Some providers will help you with the Medicare paperwork free of charge.

If your movement is impaired, you may also want to consider a power scooter. These products are more economical, although they are larger and harder to navigate in some areas. People who are disabled but able to push themselves in a wheelchair at home can use these as a more economic alternative if they want to use a more convenient form of transportation outside. Power scooters are a good option for people who can move around in their own home using a cane, but can’t walk longer distances conveniently and comfortably.

Buying a power wheelchair is an important decision. Your doctor or physical therapist may be able to help you find the right one for your needs, so be sure to ask before you start shopping. Medicare and insurance companies will generally not pay for replacement units for a number of years, so make sure you get the right one. -Article by Adam Hefner

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