Losing mobility is a tough experience, but mobility is becoming less of an issue as wheelchairs become more advanced. Originally, wheelchairs were bulky devices that required the person be pushed around. After that, a rudimentary version of the motorized wheelchair was invented, later developing into the modern electric wheelchair. You have probably seen commercials for some of these chairs during daytime TV. 2019 saw the release of some of the best electric wheelchairs in history. Electric wheelchairs are part of the mobility devices sector, the fastest growing division of the medical industry. The top three companies when it comes to the manufacturing of electronic wheelchairs are 21st Century Scientific, Permobil, and Hoveround. They all come with great reviews and are considered to be industry leaders. Keep reading to learn the top questions about electric wheelchair brands, so you can choose the one that's right for your needs.
Yes. Each manufacturer makes wheelchairs for every purpose, including pediatric wheelchairs, indoor/outdoor wheelchairs, and traditional electric wheelchairs. If you can't find something to fit your lifestyle, the 21st Century Scientific's chair "The Bounder" can be laden with different options. It can be specifically designed to fit anyone's needs. With these three companies, you don't fit the chair. The chair fits you.
Permobil makes a versatile chair for indoor and outdoor use. Users can transition seamlessly from one surface to another. The two keys to versatile chair performance are a powerful motor and tight turning ratio. Permobil has both. This isn't to say the other two companies are bad when it come to this. Indoor/outdoor quality abounds with these wheelchair companies.
The best-selling wheelchair in Hoveround's product line is the MPV5. Many choose to add the reclining back option. This improves the comfort immensely of this already smooth riding wheelchair. Like all other Hoveround models, the MPV5 offers the tightest turning radius on the market. You can get anywhere in this chair.
The chairs these companies make are all electric. They don't have to be, though. All models have brake releases that make it possible for the chair to be pushed by someone else. This saves on battery life and energy costs associated with having to recharge a chair more often. Versatility is also added.
For those that aren't United States residents, Permobil is probably the best option. They sell electric wheelchairs to almost every developed country in the world. Check their product line on their website for your corresponding country and what's available to you. The offerings in the United States are just as good as the other company's devices.
Yes. As you have noticed by their ubiquitous television commercials, Hoveround chairs are covered by Medicare. The reclining option with extended headrest is not including in the Medicare payment. You can also check with your insurance provider for information on coverage when it comes to a mobility device.
Each of these companies makes a chair that supports at least 250 lbs, but "The Bounder" made by 21st Century Scientific is the best designed for this situation. It can support up to 500 lbs without any added strain, making it an ideal chair for larger individuals.
Your primary concern when making a selection is your lifestyle. Like to travel? Choose a chair that is easy to transport. Is Comfort important to you? You may want to consider adding some comfort options. Lover of the outdoors? You're going to want a powerful motor that can get you through anything. Each company has a model to fit the needs of any individual. This is not a decision to be rushed, as it is going to a part of your life every day.