Guide To Travel Power Wheelchairs

Travel Power Wheelchairs

As among the most compact mobility products, travel power wheelchairs (or travel electric wheelchairs)are not only designed for portability, but also for use in very compact spaces, such as small apartments and shops. With speeds up to 4 mph, and U-1 batteries, offering a driving range of up to 10 miles, travel electric wheelchairs also work well on sidewalks, in malls, on cruise ships, and in airports

Pride Go-Chair Travel Power Wheelchair

Travel electric wheelchairs feature a minimal seat by nature of the wheelchair's compact size. A travel seat typically has a padded base, low-cut padded back, with flip-up armrests. The seat is contoured to help keep you in place, with a folding backrest for transportability, and the padded cover is usually removable for cleaning. For legrests, a foot platform is used, flipping up out of the way for transfers.

To transport a travel power wheelchair, you must be able to transfer out of the wheelchair, and you or an assistant must be able to disassemble the wheelchair by removing the seat, battery pack, and base. While most components are relatively light, the heaviest components are approximately 35 lbs., so there is some lifting involved. Also, for reassembly, some coordination is required.

It is important to note that travel electric wheelchairs aren't intended as "full-time" mobility, but as supplemental mobility within one's home or when one wishes to go out-and-about with a very compact, transportable electric wheelchair, making them an ideal alternative to a scooter. Additionally, travel power wheelchairs aren't intended for rough outdoor terrain, or traveling over very long distances.

A travel power wheelchair may be best for you if you need:

• An ultra compact electric wheelchair
• An extremely maneuverable power wheelchair
• A part-time wheelchair in your home or out-and-about
• Transportability in standard vehicles (however, some strength and dexterity is required)
• Comfortable but standard seating
• A battery range of up to 10 miles

A travel power wheelchair may not be best for you if you need:

• Full-time wheelchair use
• Advanced seating and positioning
• Use on rough terrain
• Extended driving range
• Higher speeds

By Mark E. Smith