How Fast of a Power Wheelchair Do You Need?
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Electric wheelchairs come in various types. One main concern is speed. If this is your first time buying a wheelchair then this will force you to think about things you had not even considered before. If not, then you may know what you hope you can get but not be sure whether or not you can. In this article we survey the norms for speed in electric wheelchairs and show which brands and designs may be best suited to your real needs.
The base standard speeds for wheelchairs is 5mph. The reason for this is that they can be maneuvered indoors at a speed similar to a relaxed walking pace. This is enough for young children and the elderly and slower paced business atmospheres.
The truth is that not everyone needs the same amount of speed for their wheelchair although there are large groups of those using them that do want about the same amount of speed. The most commonly used top range of wheelchair speeds is 5 – 7 mph. There are some that go 11 mph which is about 5 minutes per mile – the same as many joggers.
The fastest ones are best for pet owners who walk their pets and for people working with children mature enough to run around and young enough to really need you with them. People that engage in these activities or who play a lot of sports are most likely to need a high speed wheelchair.
The average person will do fine with a 5mph top speed wheelchair. Often though those with a more active lifestyle might require up to 8.5mph. But almost never do you need a 11.6mph wheelchair. It is advisable especially if this is your first wheelchair, if you are elderly, or if you have severe disabilities that may hinder your control and maneuvering of the power wheelchair for you to go for a 5mph wheelchair.
To find the best wheelchair speed for you, ask those who are going to sell you one. Think of the circumstances under which you are most likely to need speed and make inquiries about those times. The retailer might well have plenty of experience with this and be able to tell you how it usually handled.
Learn more about San Diego wheelchairs. Stop by Access Medical’s rehab wheelchairs site where you can find out all about power wheelchairs and what they can do for you.
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