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Power Wheelchair
Choosing the Right Pediatric Power Wheelchair
When people see a child who is confine on a wheelchair, the
first word they usually think of is pity. But, this is not
right! The child may perhaps be helpless but that is not what
he or she needs. What that child need is a support and
consideration, not sympathy.
Therefore, it is important that parents should consider their
children’s mobility and independence. They may not be open
about their feelings at all times, but for sure they want to be
treated as normal. Parents, on the other hand should sensitive
about this. They must provide their disabled children the
independence they long for – by choosing the right wheelchair
for them.
But what is the right wheelchair for children? The one that is
suitable for children is a pediatric power wheelchair. This
kind of wheelchair is propelled by electricity. It is used with
the help of belt and gears.
Pediatric power wheelchairs are often expensive. They are also
available in 3 essential models. They are:
1. Rear-wheel drive wheelchairs
This is the most popular in the pediatric power wheelchairs.
They move faster but are difficult for turning.
2. Front-wheel drive wheelchairs
This has tighter turning capabilities. Most of this model has a
slightly lower top pace compared to the rear-wheel because they
have the tendency to turn very fast.
3. Mid-wheel drive wheelchairs
This has the tightest turning capabilities of all the three
pediatric power wheelchairs models. However, this tend to be
unsteady when the user is about to stop or start. Mid-wheel has
caster wheels at the back and an additional set of anti-tip
wheels which may not be good in an uneven terrain.
Choosing a wheelchair for your children involve a huge
consideration and concern. One of the most common concerns is
the transportation. Many children will have a great benefit
from using a power wheelchair if only the transportation
concern is solved. It will not be good to lift your child and
the chair for a couple of times everyday because both of you
might develop back problems. The only solution to this is to
choose for a lighter wheelchair with detachable hardware.
Other concerns in choosing a wheelchair for a child include
lifestyle, terrain and the surroundings. So, if possible before
choosing ask yourself any of these questions:
• Can your child be able to use the wheelchair at school? •
What did the doctor tell you about his or her needs? • Will
your child be comfortable with the wheelchair you like? • What
does your child want?
Find answers to these questions and it will be easier for you
to choose the kind of wheelchair for your child.
Talking about practicality, the best one should be the
wheelchair which can grow with your child. This is an
adjustable wheelchair. Most wheelchairs today can be adjusted
by changing the brace supports found at the bottom. It can also
be expanded by changing the frame sections at the front with a
leg support. It can even last for ten to twelve years or even
longer.
Lastly, maintenance of the wheelchair should be observed
regularly. It should be washed, cleaned, and sprayed thoroughly
with a cleaner. A careful check up of the entire wheelchair at
least once a week will be great. Also, you have to check the
hardware, tires, seat and the braking system if it is properly
working. This is to make sure that your child is safe and
protected at all times.
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Source: http://www.access4all.me.uk/
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