Best Practices For Wheelchair Safety And Selection

There are many things to consider before you purchase a wheelchair. Regardless of whether you want a manual or powered chair, consider the following:

1. Folding or rigid frames?

On manual chairs, folding frames are the usual conventional type having an X brace in the center allowing the frame to be folded sideways. Folding is simple, but a chair of this type tends to be bulky as well as quite heavy. New versions of lighter materials are now available, but regardless of this point because folding frames involve many parts, it is heavy compared to a rigid frame. Rigid frame joints are welded and a lightweight aluminum material is used, enabling one to transfer the wheelchair into the car without help.

2. It's all about comfort: get the footrest angled perfectly

An angle footrest is measured from the horizontal or is regarded from the side, whereas tapered footrests are regarded from the front, and joins both feet at the bottom, providing more clearance when turning. However, if you have limited hip and knee joint flexibility, this can be uncomfortable.

3. Don't overlook the handrim

Note that the overall diameter of a handrim will affect its propulsion. This means that having a large diameter climbs will be easier and with a diameter that is much smaller, it brings about a lot of speed on a flat surface.

4. It's all about the wheels

While spoked wheels are lighter, they require extra maintenance with continued use. Composite wheels on the other hand usually wear out at the bearing escalations. Then, the zero camber gives a slender wheelchair measurement. When the camber is increased, the measurement at the wheel?s botton is also increased and the measurement at the top is decreased, providing steadiness and turning can be done with ease.

5. Wheel locks

These are of two types namely the under-seat and the side mounted. The side mounted type provides easy operation, though one has to be careful when pushing as thumbs can easily be caught in the wheel lock. Whereas the under-seat type can pas up to this problem, it is much difficult to use since it calls for reaching under the seat.

6. Front and back balance

Check the balance well - as if the rear wheels are very much far forward to the frame, the user can tip backwards. Also, the chair will be hard to push if the wheels are put too far backwards.

Wheelchair safety measures:

- Always make sure that your wheelchair is in good condition all the time.
- When using a power wheelchair, be certain to turn the power off when leaving it at a slope or inclined place.
- When pushing a patient, inform her first before you move the wheelchair.
- When not moving, use brakes.
- Do not attempt to go up or to go down on steep slopes.
- When pushing a patient on a manual wheelchair, be sure that your speed should not exceed that of brisk walking.
- When transferring a patient to a wheelchair, be sure to raise the footplates before doing so. Then lower the footplates after and place the patient?s feet onto the footplates.
- Avoid passing through grassy or pebbled plains.
- When crossing the street, be sure to stop, look and listen.

Safety on power wheelchairs:

- Choose a type with mechanical brakes that can be released or set by the user.
- For outdoor use, a power wheelchair must have power large wheels at the front and never free swinging casters.
- For the user with an impaired hand or arm, install an orthotic elbow or arm support so as to aid the hand when operating the controls.
- Shut off breaking sensors can detect when a wheelchair is moving out of control and quickly shut off the power.
- Mechanical brakes can bet set by the user with normal hand functions.
- Check the batteries before you go out that they are fully charged, every time.
- Always keep a cell phone handy. You?ll never know emergencies might happen.
- A power wheelchair has many of the same parts as a car. Have it checked by a professional every three months for safety, and check it daily yourself.

Are you at risk?

1. Paraplegics
Fit & active individuals are on the average the safest users of a manual, power-assisted, and fully powered wheelchair. They are at very low risk.

2. Amputees
Individuals with missing arms or legs, having active upper bodies are generally safe power wheelchair users. Although it depends on the type of control device that is used, but when used and executed properly, they are at low risk.

3. People having weak upper bodies like people with Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson Disease, and many other conditions
A standard joystick is used to maneuver power wheelchairs. These disorders cause slowed reflexes, impaired eyesight, or impaired judgment. All must be carefully screened for their functional insufficiency. They are at moderate risk.

4. Individuals with little or no upper body movement
Individuals who uses a mouth a puff & sip breathe control, mouth joystick, or gyroscopic (inertial) wheelchair controls. They are at high risk.

5. Paralyzed individuals and children.
Children as well as very small adults that are using special seats need a power wheelchair, mostly with significantly paralyzed bodies. Depending on the mechanical operation, the individual?s ailment, and personalized progress and safety instruction, these individuals are at high risk. For more great wheelchair related articles and resources check out http://wheelchair.goldenhq.com

Wheelchair Battery Concerns

Wheelchairs also use batteries and the battery that you will use will differ according to your needs. When choosing the right battery for your chair you have to look at the manner you will use your chair. If you often go for long rides then you should choose a long lasting battery. Using the wrong battery can leave you stranded especially if the battery is unable to provide the power needed to steer rugged terrains.

But aside from considering how you use your chair, you have to likewise consider the cost, maintenance need, and safety and transportation ability. Because of the immense weight and volume of batteries designers have to seriously consider them in manufacturing a power wheelchair. But a carefully and effectively produced battery can last longer, take up less space and weigh less. Consequently, this will create a more reliable wheelchair that has increased power and lower maintenance need.

Additionally, when buying a powered wheelchair you also have to consider whether the battery is sold with the chair or if they are sold separately. This way you can budget your money accordingly. But using car batteries to keep costs low is not a good idea. Car batteries are used as starter batteries. They give off large amount for energy for a short period so their full capacity is never fully discharged. Additionally, if car batteries are upturned they may leak acid. Hence, it is not advisable to use them in your chair. So your chair battery must be a special type deep-cycle. This way the battery can be fully discharged without damage to the battery.

When charging the battery, make sure that they are not left attached to the charger for more than twenty-four hours. If a wheelchair battery is overcharged it can permanently damage the battery. There are basically two types of wheelchair battery charger, manual and automatic. Manual charger needs constant supervision. If left unsupervised it can cause damage to the battery. Automatic charger, on the other hand, automatically monitors the charge. It will automatically shut off when a full charged is reached. And when charging a battery always check that the battery is charging. Keep in mind that the plug is in a lot of stain, so make sure that the cord and the plug are in good condition.

The life of a wheelchair battery depends on how roughly they are used. So when you notice that the wheelchair is getting weak at the end of your trips then its time to get a new one.

For comments and suggestions kindly visit Power Wheelchairs Services

Viojieley Gurrobat loves readings books in her spare time. She writes stories and poems about anything under the sun.

Wheelchair as a Lifestyle Choice

When buying a wheelchair comfort is obviously of vital importance. Also, it is important to remember that everyone has specific needs and that the only way to determine how your wheelchair measures up is for you to actually try it. For optimal mobility, it is best to choose a wheelchair that suits your needs. With the variety of chairs available today finding the right chair can be a challenge. So let's start with the physical considerations. Your diagnosis will basically tell you about what kind of physical functions you can do. Think of how you spend your day and how you accomplish your tasks. If you need a certain chair height to be able to transfer yourself, then buy a chair that enable you to change its height. From this you can have an idea on which wheelchair to buy.

Aside from considering your ability it is likewise important to consider the environment in which the chair will be used. Will you be making a lot of travels everyday? Will you use the chair indoors only or will you be spending most of your time outdoors? If you plan on using the wheelchair outdoor you will need a high powered wheelchair with high power motors. How you will transport your chair is another thing to consider. You will need some type of accessible transport vehicle. If you intend to buy a vehicle make sure that you obtain the wheelchair first to make sure that it will fit inside the vehicle.

Although it is common for most people to easily get drawn with the chairs appearance, one should not rely merely on it in choosing the right chair. Appearance is just one of the considerations but not the factor that must be given the most importance. There are a lot of wheelchair models today. Some will last better than other. It is often difficult to determine the exact life of a wheelchair. But mostly, how you use your wheelchair will determine how long it will last. If you are a wheelchair user who does not frequently hit your chair around, your chair will perhaps last for as long as five years. If, however, you are very active and spend most of your time outdoors, you will stress your chair a lot compared to a person who usually spends his time indoors. For this reason, it is important that active wheelchair users maintain their chairs regularly. So, as much as possible before buying your own wheelchair learn more about then first and what is available in the market to make the chair that you will buy meet your needs and work for you.

For comments and suggestions kindly visit Power Wheelchairs Online

Viojieley Gurrobat loves readings books in her spare time. She writes stories and poems about anything under the sun

Wheel Chair Batteries

Batteries used in things like wheel chairs are essential for every day living and it is not convenient when they die. When you depend on a battery for mobility, it is crucial that the battery is a powerful one.

Batteries designed specifically for electric motors are known as traction batteries. They are constructed is several ways. One is a gel-battery in which electrolyte gel packs are used to avoid spilling common in lead-acid batteries. A newer traction battery on the market is the AGM battery, or absorbed glass mat battery. In this battery, the electrolyte is embedded in between boron-silicate glass mats. Just like gel-batteries they will not spill if broken, but AGM batteries can take much more mechanical abuse from things like shock and vibration.

AGM wheelchair batteries are also more ideal because of their charge and discharge rates. Charging an AGM battery is similar to most standard batteries, so there is no need for a special charger, and there are no problems with incompatible chargers. AGM batteries have a very low self-discharge rate which allows them to sit for periods of time without recharging. AGM batteries also charge quite rapidly.

AGM batteries are a great and safe alternative to the hazardous lead-acid batteries. In cases of mobility, spillage can be a deadly issue. Wheelchair batteries can be quite expensive, but they are long lasting and crucial for those who need them to get around.

Angela Oliver is an author for Battery Web,a retailer and wholesaler of all types of batteries. Visit the site for Wheelchair Batteries.

Power Wheelchair Considerations

Wheelchairs have been developed for all kinds of people and have been designed to meet their needs. And as society evolves so are wheelchairs. Hence, power wheelchairs have been developed to enhance the quality of life of disabled individuals. They have been a result of innovation in the market. Power wheelchairs are basically wheelchairs that do not need to be physically propelled because they use electricity to make them move. When it comes to deciding whether powered chairs are best for you than manual wheelchairs, there are a few things you need to consider. You need to consider your lifestyle and activities of daily living before buying the wheelchair.

Ideally, power wheelchairs are best for people who are unable to propel manual wheelchairs but require independent mobility. When considering power wheelchairs, it is also necessary to consider development and physical factors such as visual perception, posture and coordination. Also consider the environment and living conditions. Since power wheelchairs are heavier than manual chairs they cannot be easily lifted on curbs ad steps. Hence, it is important that the environment that the user has have wide doors and halls to accommodate the wheelchair. Think carefully of how you will use the chair to make sure that it will hold up to your needs.

Decide also if you will be traveling a lot because power wheelchairs do not fold conveniently making them difficult to transport. Additionally, remember that these kinds of chair are run by electricity so you need to consider the batteries and charger. Most importantly, since they are high-powered chairs you also need to consider the cost. To reduce the cost of powered wheelchairs, you can purchase them secondhand. However, remember that secondhand chairs don?t have transferable warranty so be careful when purchasing them. In addition, a good way to reduce the cost is to have part of the cost covered by you and some by your medical insurance.

Advantages of power wheelchair include great sophistication in stability and control, availability in different types and provide little strength to travel distances. They can also reduce the pain in the arms and shoulders from daily use. Hence, power wheelchairs can permit continued activities even if there us a decline in the body?s function. A doctor or physical therapist can help in making sure that the input device is positioned carefully for your physical skills. Hence, before buying your power wheelchair make sure that you have the right reasons and that they will meet your needs.Viojieley Gurrobat loves readings books in her spare time. She writes stories and poems about anything under the sun. For comments and suggestions kindly visit http://www.wheelchairspower.com/wcp/ELECTRIC-POWER-WHEELCHAIRS.html?category=1

The Benefits of Electric Indoor Wheelchairs

Electric indoor wheelchairs are a boon to wheelchair users. They add power, speed and comfort to the experience. Indoor electric wheelchairs are for people who have absolutely no mobility, even at home. However, indoor wheelchairs cannot be used outdoors, except in the garden or lawn. There is a huge variety of indoor wheelchair brands to choose from. They are provided with several options and can be custom designed to suit individual needs. There are also plenty of styles and colors to choose from. Certain guidelines must be met while providing an indoor electric wheelchair to a person. The person should be suffering from a defect of the locomotor system or from chronic heart or lung conditions that make walking impossible. The person should be unable to effectively self-propel a manual wheelchair indoors. The wheelchair user should also be able to achieve a fair level of independence in the home because of the electric indoor wheelchair. The need of this chair should be permanent or at least long term.

There are also some dual electric wheelchairs, which are fit for both indoor as well as outdoor use. Some criteria required for this kind of electric wheelchair, in addition to the guidelines for indoor electric wheelchairs include the following:

1. Users must have adequate field and acuity of vision to be safe on public roads.

2. Users should have the ability to comply with DVLC requirements for motor vehicle drivers concerning epilepsy and other causes of loss of consciousness.

3. Users should not require accessories, modifications or special seating outside of the range supplied by the powered chair manufacturer.

4. Users should comply with the manufacturer's recommended occupant weight limit for the chair.

5. Users should have a residential environment, which is compatible with the use of a dual-purpose powered chair, and which includes a suitable storage area and power supply for battery charging.

6. Users should have a local outside environment that is accessible by a dual-purpose powered chair and compatible with its use.

7. Users should have the capacity to derive significant improvement in their independence and quality of life through use of a dual-purpose powered chair.

Electric Wheel Chairs Info provides detailed information about electric wheelchair lifts and scooters, used electric wheelchairs, electric indoor wheelchairs, Medicare, electric wheelchair reviews, and more. Electric Wheel Chairs Info is the sister site of Scooters Web.

Traveling in Wheelchair

Traveling always give a person the feeling of excitement and fulfillment. Visiting new places, eating at a great restaurant or watching your favorite football game at the stadium is a great way to spend a free time. But for disabled individuals, especially for those in a wheelchair, these activities can be overwhelming and difficult. But there are things disabled people can do before traveling to make the experience more relaxing, comfortable and enjoyable.

Say for instance you are thinking of having a meal at restaurant that you saw in the advertisement offering great foods. You can call ahead to make a reservation and to make sure that they have facilities that accommodates disabled individuals. You would not want to arrive at the restaurant and find out that they don't have ramps and as a result they have to carry you to get inside the restaurant. Nor is it amazing to find out that their bathrooms can accommodate average sized people only but not you and your wheelchair. It is, thus, good to call ahead to make sure that you have a great dining experience.

Here are several questions you can ask when calling for a reservation in a hotel or restaurant. First, ask if they have elevators or stairs. Do they have ramps or elevators in all floors of the building? You can also ask how wide their doors are and what kind of knobs, latches or handles they have. How big their bathroom is? And some other questions that you think you need to know. If the restaurant or hotel has problems with accommodating disabled individuals, you can try talking to the management for the necessary adjustments.

Most business places today are required by the Americans with Disabilities Act to have facilities appropriate to disabled individuals or make adjustments in order to accommodate them. But of course, every disabled person's need is unique. Hence, your needs will really depend on your environment. If you are in a rural hotel you cannot expect them to offer you the same services given by those in urban places. But still, they have to provide adjustments in order to accommodate you.

So before you get on on with your travel it is important to make the necessary preparations to make sure that you have a great experience. You need not regret anymore that you have chosen the hotel or restaurant because they did not provide you the necessary accommodation. When you come prepared you can be sure to make the most of your traveling experience.

For comments and suggestions kindly visit Power Wheelchairs Services

Viojieley Gurrobat loves readings books in her spare time. She writes stories and poems about anything under the sun.

Choosing The Right Wheelchair For Your Child

In the past, if a child needed a wheelchair parents would simply buy a large chair and let the child grow into it. This should not be the case. Sitting is important to all children. Since most children attend school, increased attention should be provided to them. If they do not have a comfortable wheelchair to use, they will most likely get discouraged from studying.

Today there are many wheelchair style, colors and features available to meet all the needs of younger users. Many manufacturers have developed wheelchairs that will cater to the changing needs of children. There are several factors that need to be considered when choosing a wheelchair for your child. The first thing you need to consider is the child?s age, abilities and disabilities. It may be in your best interest to consult a professional to decide which type of chair is appropriate for your child. They will determine if your child is suited to use manual chair, powered chair or other wheelchair alternative.

It is likewise important that children and their parents actively participate in the selection process of the wheelchair. They are the individuals most aware of the needs and circumstances in which the wheelchair will be used. So they should work together in choosing the right wheelchair.

There is really no need to rush on buying a chair for your child. It is far better to take sometime than to make a rush decision. You would not want to regret your purchase in the end. That is why it is important that you make an informed decision when it comes to the chair you will use for a considerable amount of time. Realize also that less is more. So use accessories only when necessary. As every wheelchair is as individual as the user, it does not really matter if the chair is really good if it does not fit the child who will use it.

Lastly, it is also important to consider the child?s personal interest and choice. The wheelchair will not simply be something he will need. It will also be an expansion of his personality. Hence, comfort in a wheelchair is more than how it feels to the body. It should also be comfortable to the personality. Viojieley Gurrobat loves readings books in her spare time. She writes stories and poems about anything under the sun. For comments and suggestions kindly visit http://www.wheelchairspower.com

Tips For Choosing A Powered Wheelchair

People tend to think about purchasing a powered wheelchair when they can no longer manage their standard manual wheelchair. First, however, it may be worth considering the range of active user wheelchairs that are available. These are manual wheelchairs that are lightweight and have large propelling wheels on an adjustable axle, so that the position of the wheelchair user within the chair can be adjusted to optimise their propelling and manoeuvring potential. A wheelchair user who may, previously, have found propelling a standard wheelchair too difficult may find that the reduced effort needed to propel an active user wheelchair is sufficient to regain independent mobility. The relative lightness of these wheelchairs, especially over powered wheelchairs, is an advantage if the chair has to be lifted and transported in and out of a car boot.

The wide range of battery-powered vehicles currently available for the disability market is divided into three main categories: powered wheelchairs, scooters, and buggies.

Highway regulations group powered vehicles into two categories: Class 2 and Class 3 vehicles.

CLASS 2 POWERED WHEELCHAIRS

Class 2 powered wheelchairs can travel up to 6.4kph (4mph) on pavements and on the road only to cross from one side of the road to the other. They can be divided into sub-sections:

Indoor use only

? for indoor use;
? small turning circle;
? could be used on a level patio area or in a small, level garden;
? short distance range.

Indoor and outdoor use

? for indoor use;
? for outdoor use over standard terrain;
? over low kerbs;
? short/medium distance range.

Outdoor use only

? limited indoor use;
? outdoor use including uneven ground;
? kerb climbing up to 10cm;
? medium to long distance range.

The wheelchairs that can be used both indoors and outdoors tend to be the most popular types because they are more versatile. Wheelchairs usually have to be taken indoors for storage and maintenance, if for nothing else, so the overall size and manoeuvrability of an indoor/outdoor wheelchair suits most people.

CLASS 3 POWERED WHEELCHAIRS

These tend to be larger than Class 2 vehicles and can be used on the roads where they can travel up to 12.8kph (8mph).

Owners of class 3 vehicles do not have to hold a current driving licence. Drivers should be disabled and aged 14 or over, and they must be familiar with the Highway Code and drive in accordance with these rules at all times. This includes complying with relevant eyesight requirements and not driving under the influence of alcohol. Class 3 vehicles are not allowed on motorways, cycle lanes or bus lanes. Although legally allowed on dual carriageways, the size and relative slow speed of a Class 3 wheelchair can be hazardous to larger, faster moving traffic, and the driver may feel extremely vulnerable.

It may be possible to enrol on a training course and receive instruction on how to drive your wheelchair safely on the highway. Your local road safety officer or Mobility Centre may know of courses running in your area.

Standard features of class 3 wheelchairs are:

? four wheels fitted with chunkier tyres;

? kerb climbing 10cm or more;

? long distance range;

? two-speed settings: slow (6.4kph) for pavement use, and fast (12.8kph) for road use, usually changed by the flick of a switch;

? lights, indicators, horn, rear-view mirror and rear reflectors (all required by law). In addition, if the vehicle is to be used on a dual carriageway it must be fitted with a flashing beacon that can be used optionally when driving on all roads to make other road users more aware of the presence of a wheelchair.

PRELIMINARY CONSIDERATIONS

Before you proceed, you must be clear in your mind what you want the wheelchair for. If you need it to improve your indoor mobility, you must have level or ramped access into your home. Doorways must be wide enough to accommodate the wheelchair width and there must be enough space within rooms to enable you to turn your wheelchair around. It may be necessary to do some uncluttering of your home environment to ensure routes through your home are unimpeded. You will need to compare the size and turning circle of the wheelchairs you are looking at.

If you are intending to use the wheelchair outside, bear in mind that handling the wheelchair over uneven ground, passing pedestrians and crossing roads, requires a fair amount of confidence. You must look at the distance you intend to travel and the routes you will be taking to get an idea of what you will be requiring your wheelchair to do.

In addition to the ability to handle the controls you must also:

? be able to judge distances and widths (to safely manoeuvre the wheelchair between doorways and through busy streets);
? have reasonable eyesight;
? be aware of your responsibilities as a wheelchair user.

People with visual, perceptual or intellectual difficulties and who want to independently control a wheelchair should seek medical advice and have a thorough assessment at a Mobility Centre.

You will need a secure and waterproof place in which to store your powered wheelchair, close to a power point to charge its batteries. If you are keeping your vehicle in your home, make sure access is possible. It may be necessary for you to install an access ramp leading into your home. Once indoors, ensure the vehicle is not going to obstruct essential circulation space. If you live in a block of flats and plan to keep your wheelchair in a shared hallway, ask permission of other residents and your landlord, and inform the local fire officer to ensure that the wheelchair will not cause a hazard in a fire emergency.

TRY BEFORE YOU BUY

Powered wheelchairs are expensive so it is essential that you do not rush into buying a vehicle that you later find is not entirely suitable.

Before buying, aim to try out and compare a range of different powered wheelchairs. This can be done at several venues:

DISABLED LIVING CENTRES

You may have a Disabled Living Centre (DLC) near you. People can visit these equipment demonstration centres to see and try out ranges of equipment and receive impartial advice to help them choose appropriately. Not all DLCs display wheelchairs; some focus on equipment to help with tasks within the home. You will need to contact your nearest centre to find out if they can help you. Up-to-date addresses are held by the Disabled Living Centres Council, or look on their website at www.dlcc.org.uk.

MOBILITY CENTRES

Some mobility centres (that primarily advise on vehicle adaptations for disabled drivers/passengers) also offer advice on powered wheelchairs. Some have an outdoor area for trying out vehicles over different gradients and terrain, and can more formally assess your needs, usually for a fee. If you are applying to a charity for funding for your wheelchair, you could include the cost of the assessment in your grant application.

Mobility centres may also have a selection of vehicle racks and hoists on display as examples of ways of transferring and transporting your wheelchair.

To find out the address of your nearest Mobility Centre, contact the UK Forum of Mobility Centres or visit the Mobility Unit website www.mobility-unit.dtlr.gov.uk/lists/, part of the Department of Transport.

NATIONAL EXHIBITIONS

Disability equipment suppliers attend national exhibitions to demonstrate their equipment to both professionals working in the disability field and to disabled people. Annual events include the Mobility Roadshow and the Independent Living Exhibition.

HOME DEMONSTRATIONS

Some manufacturers of powered wheelchairs provide a home demonstration service, which allows users to try out the vehicle in their home environment. Before you invite a sales representative into your home, you may prefer to buy from a company that belongs to a trade association such as the British Healthcare Trades Association (see useful addresses). The association has established a Registration Scheme, open to BHTA members and non-members, which lays down a Code of Conduct and minimum professional standards.

A home visit is always useful, before a final decision to buy is made. Check that:

? the vehicle can be manoeuvred over thresholds, through doorways and over terrain where you are likely to be using it;

? make sure you sit in the wheelchair and drive it - do not allow the sales representative alone to take control;

? have a third impartial person with you to give advice and offer another opinion.
Although you hope there will be no need to question the integrity of the sales representative, a minority may try to take advantage of your vulnerability. Take your time over making any decision to buy. Do not buy from anyone exerting pressure on you to buy their product. You must give yourself an opportunity to think things through independently.

BEFORE YOU COMMIT TO BUYING

Check the following:

? What is the delivery time?
? Will the powered wheelchair arrive ready assembled?
? What guarantee is available?
? What after-care service is offered?
? How much is the company?s call out charge?
? Will spare parts be brought to the home?
? If the powered wheelchair has to be taken away for repairs, will a loan vehicle be offered?
? Does the manufacturer offer an insurance scheme?
? If the same vehicle can be supplied direct from the manufacturer or from other retailers, how do prices compare?

You must be certain that:

? you have the necessary skills to handle a powered wheelchair;
? that the wheelchair is capable of doing what you require of it;
? your home environment can accommodate your wheelchair.
? Does the wheelchair feel secure and fully support the user

As you will see choosing a powered wheelchair is not a straight forward decision especially if you have no previous experience in this area. We strongly suggest that you talk to people experienced in this field and take some time to try out the various options. One such Midlands based company is Magbility, based just South of Birmingham, with many years experience in providing solutions for the elderly and infirm. You can see more details at http://www.services-professional.co.uk/Retailer-Magbility.html John Fowler trained as a Mathematician and has worked in the IT industry for over 30 years, much of the time in sales related functions. He now spends his time between being a partner in SEO Gurus and as a sales and management trainer for ICT companies. John can be contacted via http://www.seogurus.co.uk

The Importance Of Using Electric Wheelchairs To Improve Mobility

 by: Mike Yeager

No person likes to feel housebound and dependent on others. While people who have been injured or suffering from a debilitating disease may not have full functionality of their motor skills, it is still possible for them to be semi-independent and mobile. It cant be over emphasized how critical that sense of independence can be. Quality, dependable Electric Wheelchairs are the means of transportation that many people choose as their way to get around.

There are so many different Electric Wheelchairs available on the market that its hard to know where to start. Here are some suggestion when looking at different Electric Wheelchairs. Pediatric electric wheelchairs are generally deigned to be mobile and safe for young users. Heavy duty Electric Wheelchairs are for large patients that weigh more than average yet require the ability to get around. Some electric wheelchairs come with reclining backs and others can be easily folded to fit into a standard car trunk.

While Electric Wheelchairs are an adjustment for the user they do provide that person with the ability to get around and maintain some, or even all of their independence.

Mike Yeager

Publisher

http://www.a1-medical-supplies-4u.com/productpage/wheelchairs.html

mjy610@hotmail.com

The ease of using a Motorized Wheelchair to improve mobility.

 by: Mike Yeager

No person likes to feel housebound and dependent on others. While people who have been injured or suffering from a debilitating disease may not have full functionality of their motor skills, it is still possible for them to be semi-independent and mobile with motorized wheelchairs and other home medical equipment. It cant be over emphasized how critical that sense of independence can be. Quality, dependable Motorized Wheelchairs and other home medical equipment are the means of transportation that many people choose as their way to get around.

There are so many different Motorized Wheelchairs available on the market that its hard to know where to start. Here are some suggestion when looking at different Motorized Wheelchairs. Pediatric Motorized Wheelchairs and other home medical equipment are generally deigned to be mobile and safe for young users. Heavy duty Motorized Wheelchairs are for large patients that weigh more than average yet require the ability to get around. Some Motorized Wheelchairs come with reclining backs and others can be easily folded to fit into a standard car trunk.

While Motorized Wheelchairs and other home medical equipment are an adjustment for the user they do provide that person with the ability to get around and maintain some, or even all of their independence.

Mike Yeager

Publisher

http://www.a1-medical-supplies-4u.com/

mjy610@hotmail.com

Electric Wheelchairs

 by: Armen Hareyan

When you search online for Electric Wheelchairs, like any other things, you will face a situation, where you will need to choose a provider out of so many companies that offer the service. The search engines will bring you thousands and thousands of results when you type the phrase Electric Wheelchairs. Which vendor or provider to choose? It is important that you make an informed decision.

Things to look for when choosing an Electric Wheelchair:

First, it is good to check the companys track record and make sure that the company, which provider Electric Wheelchairs is a very good company to do business with. When I buy big-ticket product from a company that I dont know of, I always check the companys record with the Better Business Bureau. You can do that by going to www.bbb.org .

While large companies may offer a great service, our experience has been that with the smaller or midsize companies you get a more personalized attention. For example an unknown company such as Jaki Med, based in Charlotte, NC, (Tel. 866.569-7877, they also provide other related supplies) may offer a better service than a large company who will run continuous ads on your TV screen. Why, because you get a personalized service, and a small company will try to do a better job to put a good word out there about its services.

A good company will also offer a free transportation during the product delivery and will service is free for a reasonable time. Ask the company if they could provide you with few previous customers with whom you could speak directly and find out what experience they had with your possible Electric Wheelchair provider. You might also want to ask from the company, to get some references that they have from the doctors for whose patients they have provided Electric Wheelchairs in the past.

A good company that provides Electric Wheelchairs should be able to assist you while doing the paper work for an insurance coverage.

Those are few things, but not all, that you might want to consider when choosing an Electric Wheelchair provider. You definitely want that the user of the Electric Wheelchair enjoy his or her way of mobility and enjoy life fully.

eMaxHealth.com - www.eMaxHealth.com - provides free Health articles and Forum on various categories of Health. Maximize Your Health by reading and learning about it. All the content of the site is for informative purposes only. visit eMaxHealth.com at www.eMaxHealth.com

Further Expansions Underway at Colours Wheelchairs

Colours wheelchairs announces that it has expanded its operations.

Colours N Motion, a leading U.S. manufacturer of innovative and lightweight wheelchairs, announced that it has relocated its operations to a larger facility in Corona, California. This announcement has come only weeks after the announcement of expanded sales operations in Europe.

John Box, President of Colours N Motion, said: Colours new production site in Corona is more that twice the size of our previous facility in Anaheim and will enable us to enhance our operations.

In December, Colours announced that it had selected Med Services Europe B.V. to build up its European distribution network. Med Services Europe will be responsible for locating, selecting and managing a distribution network in Western and Eastern Europe. European distributors of quality medical products interested in representing Colours Wheelchairs in their market are encouraged to contact Dr. Emmer, President of Med Services Europe, directly.

About Colours N Motion
Colours is considered a leader in the rehabilitation industry for its design of innovative everyday, sport and pediatric wheelchairs. Colours wheelchairs are lightweight, adjustable and customizable. At 14.5 pounds (6.6 kg) the custom-designed Zephyr (http://www.colourswheelchair.com/products/prod_zephyr.htm) is one of the lightest wheelchairs on the market. The Boing! (http://www.colourswheelchair.com/products/prod_boing.htm) is the first wheelchair on the market with four-wheel independent suspension. Colours is disabled owned and operated. For more information: www.ColoursWheelchair.com

About Med Services Europe
Med Services Europe B.V. is based in Amsterdam, The Netherlands and specializes in Sales, Marketing and Business Development services for the Pharmaceutical, Diagnostic and Medical Equipment Industry. Med Services area of focus is Europe.

For more information: www.MedServicesEurope.com Telephone: +31648566707 (in Amsterdam)

Dr Gene Emmer is President of Med Services Europe. Med Services Europe conducts Business Development for the Pharmaceutical, Diagnostic and Medical Industry. www.MedServiceEurope.com

 

Announcing the Spazz-G, by Colours Wheelchairs: No Compromise Necessary

Colours 'N Motion and Med Services Europe announce the launch of the Spazz G

Colours 'N Motion and Med Services Europe announce the launch of the Spazz G

Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Corona, California: Ultra-Light, Ultra-Hip, Ultra-Adjustable, Ultra-Durable, Ultra-Affordable, Ultra-Stylish, Ultra-COLOURS. The thought of a stylish and affordable wheelchair has been considered by many to be beyond dreams. Now Colours has changed this. The new SPAZZ-G is not only a totally adjustable and stylish wheelchair, but with a suggested retail price of only $1,450.00 in the USA and approximately euro1450 in Europe (final price to be determined) it is priced to be fully covered by most world-wide health payment plans.

The SPAZZ-G features expandable seat width and depth, as well as adjustable positioning. The contoured frame is designed to be not only stylish, but also practical since it is easy to pull into the car and over the steering wheel. At 19 lbs (8.6 kg), including wheels, it is sleek, lightweight and easy to lift.

The SPAZZ-G has a main rigid axle tube that gives durability, rigidity and support. It has positive locking adjustable backrest, offering a full range of infinite backrest angle settings.

But best of all, it is not one of those mass produced, ordinary wheelchairs. The SPAZZ-G is different, because its a Colours Wheelchair. Celebrate life in a Colours Wheelchair.

About Colours:
Colours is a leader in the rehabilitation industry for its design of innovative everyday, sport and pediatric wheelchairs. Colours wheelchairs are lightweight, adjustable and customizable. At 14.5 pounds (6.6 kg) the custom-designed Zephyr (http://www.colourswheelchair.com/products/prod_zephyr.htm) is one of the lightest wheelchairs on the market.
The Boing! (http://www.colourswheelchair.com/products/prod_boing.htm) is the first wheelchair with four-wheel independent suspension. For more information: www.ColoursWheelchair.com. Colours is now expanding in Europe! European distributors interested in distributing Colours Wheelchairs are encouraged to contact Med Services Europe, Colours European representative.
Med Services Europe B.V. is based in Amsterdam, The Netherlands and conducts Sales, Marketing and Business Development services for the Pharmaceutical, Diagnostic and Medical Equipment Industry. Med Services specializes in building and managing distribution networks for medical manufacturers in Eastern and Western Europe. We are Colours Representative in Europe. European Wheelchair distributors are invited to contact us. www.MedServicesEurope.com Telephone: +31648566707

Dr. Emmer is President of Med Services Europe. We do Business Development for the Medical industry. www.MedServicesEurope.com

Colours Wheelchairs Announces European Plans

Colours has selected Med Services Europe to develop and manage its European distribution network

Colours N Motion is a maverick in the wheelchair industry. In a market that generally concentrates on price and technology, Colours' focuses on esthetics and comfort. While most manufactures advertise a product, Colours communicates a lifestyle message. Colours is often controversial, using strikingly beautiful, disabled models in its ads to convey the message that sensuality and esthetics need not limited by disability.  A well known brand in the USA, Colours now announces its plans for development in Europe: Colours has selected Med Services Europe to develop and manage its European distribution network.

John Box, President of Colours in Motion said: Colours designs and manufactures adult and pediatric wheelchairs as well as sport wheelchairs for an international market of disabled customers.  With over 85% of our sales derived from the US market and distributors in Japan, Australia, New Zealand and The Netherlands, Colours is now seeking to further develop its market within the European Union. We see our collaboration with Med Services Europe as an important step forward in the development of our international operations.

Dr. Gene Emmer, President of Med Services Europe said: Med Services Europe is proud to represent Colours in Europe. Colours is exactly the type of company we seek as a partner. Their products are known in the industry as innovative. For example, at 14.5 pounds (6.6 kg) the custom-designed Zephyr is one of the lightest, if not THE lightest wheelchair on the market. The Boing! is the first wheelchair on the market with four-wheel independent suspension. But even more than technology, the focus at Colours is on customer service and esthetics. Colours makes every effort to assure that its customers are delighted.

European Distributors interested in discussing collaboration are encouraged to contact Dr. Emmer directly.

 

 

About Colours N Motion:

Colours is considered a leader in the design of innovative active wheelchairs. From its inception in 1992 Colours main goal has been to improve the lives of disabled people through innovation in equipment and services to the disabled community. Colours wheelchairs are lightweight, adjustable and customizable. Colours is disabled owned and operated. For more information:   www.ColoursWheelchair.com 

 

About Med Services Europe:

Med Services Europe B.V. is based in Amsterdam and specializes in Sales, Marketing and Business Development services for the Medical industry. Its area of focus is Europe. For more information:    www.MedServicesEurope.com        Telephone: 

Dr Emmer specializes in Sales, Marketing and Business Development services for the Medical industry.    www.MedServicesEurope.com       

 

Be a Sporty Wheelchair User!

If an injury or disability has forced you to be in a wheelchair for a long time, you must realize that your life doesnt stop there. There are still lots of things that are in stored for you. You just have to learn to view your condition positively. At present, there exist various kinds of wheelchairs as well as wheelchair accessories to aid the disabled people wherever they want to go and whatever they want to do this includes taking part in sports and recreational activities.

Almost all sports are now being offered to wheelchair users. Being a part of sports activities can be considered as one of the best means to keep these people strong and physically fit, in spite of the fact that they cannot use their legs anymore. Sports activities like wheelchair tennis, wheelchair skiing, wheelchair racing, wheelchair basketball, etc. are all expected to help strengthen the body, develop the agility, and boost the confidence of these persons with disabilities.

Sporty wheelchair users do get hooked into these sports activities because they provide them with a great avenue to consume and increase their energy. These events are also an addition or a better alternative instead of spending much time on heavy workouts in the gym. And another bonus is the chance for them to meet new people and build wonderful friendships. So, what do you have to do now? If you want to become involved into various sports events, go to your local wheelchair sports club now and know the options that they have for you.

Your sports club can help you choose the perfect sport for your physical state. It can also supply you with the details about every sport and help you select the right one for you. Several trainers are also available to offer specialized training programs for wheelchair users. Always take note that if a disabled person wants to focus in training hard and enhancing his talents in a specific sport, he can end up representing his country in the biggest sports event for the disabled people which is known as Paralympics.

Indeed, wheelchairs are making a big difference for persons with disabilities nowadays. And the good thing about these chairs is that they have really evolved far better than the chairs before which now provide more mobility to their users. Especially when you have this inclination into sports, the perfect wheelchair for you is the one that has fast maneuverability. With it, youll surely enjoy unlimited sports and become more confident about yourself.

For additional Information about the articles, you may visit http://www.wheelchairspower.com

Attention: Wheelchairs for Rent!

When you are in need of wheelchairs and you cannot afford to buy a new one, there are lots of wheelchair rental shops where you can go. But before renting a chair, you have to know the pros and cons of the wheelchairs which are available in the market today and if they provide maximum comfort, mobility and independence. This chair comes in different sizes and shapes with a variety of options to meet the needs of those people who have different levels of physical disabilities and different interests.

At present, the existence of various shops offering wheelchair rentals is an advantage to travelers and to disabled people. How does the renting process start and end? Well, start your search using your Yellow Pages directories and the online Yellow Pages directory website. Then, take your time to call your rental shop and make a reservation to assure that the wheelchair that youre going to rent is available on the dates of your choice. Based on the services, scooters, manual and electric wheelchairs, and other mobility vehicles may be available for rent by the day, week or month.

Also, it is advantageous to know that many elderly people who often utilize canes or walkers rent transport wheelchairs on weddings or sight-seeing vacations. However, an all-terrain wheelchair is ideal for an outdoor cottage vacation by allowing you to get closer to nature and discover beautiful forest habitats because it is suitable over grass, gravel, in water, and through sand. Also, if you have average upper body strength, a manual wheelchair that is driven by the arms is best for you, or a battery-operated electric wheelchair.

In addition, there are also other wheelchairs that are intended for athletes who want to participate in sports like racing, tennis or basketball, wheelchairs for teenagers that can be extended and expanded as the child grows up, and wheelchairs for basically immobile people. At present, there are also a variety of accessories such as hoists, cushions and small cranes that can pick up these wheelchairs when theyre placed into cars and vans, as well as lifts and ramps for the home and the car.

Therefore, when you are going to rent a wheelchair, always know your purpose and keep that in mind. You must first know the intention of using the wheelchair and the person who will use it. Remember that renting wheelchairs is indeed a great convenience for persons with disabilities who love to travel because these chairs are designed to create mobility and independence.

For additional Information about the articles, you may visit http://www.wheelchairspower.com

Colours Wheelchairs Announces European Expansion Plans

 Colours N Motion is a maverick in the wheelchair industry. In a market that generally concentrates on price and technology, Colours' focuses on esthetics and comfort. While most manufactures advertise a product, Colours communicates a lifestyle message. Colours is often controversial, using strikingly beautiful, disabled models in its ads to convey the message that sensuality and esthetics need not limited by disability. A well known brand in the USA, Colours now announces its plans for development in Europe: Colours has selected Med Services Europe to develop and manage its European distribution network.

John Box, President of Colours in Motion said: Colours designs and manufactures adult and pediatric wheelchairs as well as sport wheelchairs for an international market of disabled customers. With over 85% of our sales derived from the US market and distributors in Japan, Australia, New Zealand and The Netherlands, Colours is now seeking to further develop its market within the European Union. We see our collaboration with Med Services Europe as an important step forward in the development of our international operations.

Dr. Gene Emmer, President of Med Services Europe said: Med Services Europe is proud to represent Colours in Europe. Colours is exactly the type of company we seek as a partner. Their products are known in the industry as innovative. For example, at 14.5 pounds (6.6 kg) the custom-designed Zephyr is one of the lightest, if not THE lightest wheelchair on the market. The Boing! is the first wheelchair on the market with four-wheel independent suspension. But even more than technology, the focus at Colours is on customer service and esthetics. Colours makes every effort to assure that its customers are delighted.

European Distributors interested in discussing collaboration are encouraged to contact Dr. Emmer directly.

Colours is considered a leader in the design of innovative active wheelchairs. From its inception in 1992 Colours main goal has been to improve the lives of disabled people through innovation in equipment and services to the disabled community. Colours wheelchairs are lightweight, adjustable and customizable. Colours is disabled owned and operated. For more information: www.ColoursWheelchair.com

Med Services Europe B.V. is based in Amsterdam and specializes in Sales, Marketing and Business Development services for the Medical industry. Its area of focus is Europe. For more information: www.MedServicesEurope.com Telephone: +31648566707

John Box, President of Colours in Motion said: Colours designs and manufactures adult and pediatric wheelchairs as well as sport wheelchairs for an international market of disabled customers. With over 85% of our sales derived from the US market and distributors in Japan, Australia, New Zealand and The Netherlands, Colours is now seeking to further develop its market within the European Union. We see our collaboration with Med Services Europe as an important step forward in the development of our international operations.

Dr. Gene Emmer, President of Med Services Europe said: Med Services Europe is proud to represent Colours in Europe. Colours is exactly the type of company we seek as a partner. Their products are known in the industry as innovative. For example, at 14.5 pounds (6.6 kg) the custom-designed Zephyr is one of the lightest, if not THE lightest wheelchair on the market. The Boing! is the first wheelchair on the market with four-wheel independent suspension. But even more than technology, the focus at Colours is on customer service and esthetics. Colours makes every effort to assure that its customers are delighted.

European Distributors interested in discussing collaboration are encouraged to contact Dr. Emmer directly.

Colours is considered a leader in the design of innovative active wheelchairs. From its inception in 1992 Colours main goal has been to improve the lives of disabled people through innovation in equipment and services to the disabled community. Colours wheelchairs are lightweight, adjustable and customizable. Colours is disabled owned and operated. For more information: www.ColoursWheelchair.com

Med Services Europe B.V. is based in Amsterdam and specializes in Sales, Marketing and Business Development services for the Medical industry. Its area of focus is Europe. For more information: www.MedServicesEurope.com Telephone: +31648566707

Gene Emmer is president of Med Services Europe

Wheelchair etiquette

Many people simply do not know how to act when comunicating with a wheelchair user. These facts from the horses mouth may help.

• Always ask the person using the wheelchair if he or she would like assistance BEFORE you help. It may not be needed or wanted.
• Don't hang or lean on a person's wheelchair because it is part of that person's personal body space.
• Speak directly to the person in the wheelchair, not to someone nearby as if the person in the wheelchair did not exist.
• If conversation lasts more than a few minutes, consider sitting down or kneeling to get yourself on the same level.
• Don't deman or patronize the person by patting them on the head.
• Give clear directions, including distance, weather conditions and physical obstacles that may hinder the person's travel.
• Don't classify persons who use wheelchairs as sick. Wheelchairs are used for a variety of non-contagious disabilities.
• When a person using a wheelchair "transfers" out of the wheelchair to a chair, toilet, car or bed, do not move the wheelchair out of reaching distance.
• Be aware of the person's capabilities. Some users can walk with aid and use wheelchairs to save energy and move quickly.
• It is ok to use terms like "running along" when speaking to a person who uses a wheelchair. The person is likely to express things the same way.
• Don't discourage children from asking questions about the wheelchair.
• Don't assume that using a wheelchair is in itself a tragedy. It is a means of freedom that allows the person to move about independently.

Robin Kettle

DDA Access auditor and Disability Awareness Trainer www.blue-badge.co.uk

Robin is an access auditor and awareness trainer currently assisting businesses across the UK