| Power Wheelchairs Can Keep You Mobile |
| Written by Nathan Mattel |
| Saturday, 21 November 2009 09:34 |
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The whole purpose of wheelchairs is to facilitate greater freedom and independence for people who might find it difficult or impossible to do without the assistance of the wheelchair. Only 1 - 2% of everyone who could really use a wheelchair actually has one or has access to one at this time.
The whole purpose of wheelchairs is to facilitate greater freedom and independence for people who might find it difficult or impossible to do without the assistance of the wheelchair. Only 1 - 2% of everyone who could really use a wheelchair actually has one or has access to one at this time. These devices are also more complex than it may seem. Mainly, there are certain extra protections which have to be made in order to prevent serious sores - injuries. Some such problems might not occur to regular people as requiring especial prevention because they automatically move in ways that prevent sores and the like from developing. Not everyone has the same type or degree of disability. This has a strong influence on what the needs are, in terms of wheelchairs. The most important question is whether or not the person using the wheelchairs can and will use his or her arms with ease and variation. If not then, the powered wheelchairs with extremely simplified navigation may well be mandatory. Strong supports for the head and back may be involved. Some people need to have help holding their heads at all times, whereas others do not have so much need for this. In actual experience I know a girl child and a grown woman who's wheelchairs have neck and head supports they seem to very much need and also know a grown man who doesn't need that kind of support except for occasionally in order to rest. All three of these people rely on the powered wheelchairs to enhance their mobility. One is just a child presently but the other two benefit greatly from their wheelchairs and seem to be as independent and responsible as possible - which is either fully or very nearly so in both cases. Those who have disabilities which can be mitigated by the use of wheelchairs and related assistance are very fortunate. This enables people in the empowering sense of the term. Enabling has come to have bad connotations because of its association with things like alcoholism, but the real meaning of the term is to make possible. In the case of wheelchairs, they are meant to enable independence and mobility. The great news is that properly used, they really do. You will also need access to wide enough exits and entryways and sidewalks for all but the all-terrain wheelchairs. The good news is that there are even this type but you should look upon them mainly the same way you would view a mountain bike. Special vehicles can be used to help you transport the wheelchair. There are ways to move one around in a regular vehicle, but again, once you need to haul a wheelchair around you will need to take this into account when selecting a car, van or truck. The hatchback or van with a large sliding door or back door is best suited to those who need to include a wheelchair. About the Author: Looking to find the best deal on wheelchairs in San Diego California, then visit www.accessmedicalrehab.com to find the best advice on mobility products and information on the how to get involved in the San Diego disability community. |