Powerchairs
A guide to helping you
choose the right Powerchair
The key to buying a Powerchair (powered wheelchair) is to think about your requirements today but also what you might need in the future. This process helps you future proof your purchases and will help save money in the long run. Our Advisors are here to help you find the right product. We do this by assessing your circumstances, needs and wants. You will find our Advisors friendly and informative.
Is a powerchair right for me?
Powerchairs are designed for people who have virtually no mobility and/or people who have specific health conditions. Personally if I had to choose between a scooter and a powerchair, I would go for the powerchair purely because it is much more manoeuvrable, but that’s just a personal choice.
Which powerchair should I choose?
Be realistic by answering the following questions:
Do I feel that I can use a powerchair?
Remember everyone needs to practice at first. You will get a full handover and instruction of how to use your product. Do you have someone who can go out with you on your first journeys? Planning your journey will give you more confidence.
Do I have reasonable visibility to ensure you and other pedestrians are safe?
What is my weight?
You will need to buy a powerchair that can take your weight. Is my weight stable or could it increase? Take this into account.
How often will I use my powerchair and for how long?
If you are sat in your powerchair for most of the day you may want to consider the quality of seating?
Where will I use my powerchair the most?
Indoors, locally or trips away in the car/public transport.
Will I be able to get on and off the powerchair?
Do I need side or front access?
How far do I want to travel?
Maybe as you gain confidence you may want to travel further than you think.
What speed do I want to travel?
The maximum speed you can travel on the pavement is 4mph, on the road is 8mph.These are maximum speeds. You are in control of the speed at all times. All powerchairs have an automatic breaking system.
Where will I store my powerchair?
Customers will store products in a garage, shed, and house or under a heavy duty cover. Make sure you can easily get to your powerchair and the powerchair does not get in your way.
Battery charging
Make sure you can charge your powerchair in the same place as you store it.
Do you have easy access from where you store your powerchair to the pavement outside your home?
Do you need a ramp? Are the gates wide enough?
What is the terrain going to be like where I use my powerchair?
Hilly, flat etc. Do I need bigger tyres for better ground clearance?
Do I need a made to measure powerchair?
These are also known in the industry as prescription chairs. We have highlighted which powerchairs are prescription chairs and which are not. Prescription chairs are more expensive than an off the shelf powerchair but tend to be more comfortable, include more functionality and are more future proof in that the chair can be reconfigured if and when your circumstances change.
There seems a lot of questions to answer but don’t worry we are here to help. Just pick up the phone, call us on 0800 328 2788 and one of our Advisors will be happy to help or you can arrange for a visit to your home.
We are here to help you!
Please don’t attempt to choose alone!
Let the experts help you select the right powerchair
The risk of just buying online without advice is choosing an unsuitable product which will undo all the potential benefits. You want to make sure it is fit for purpose, suitable for use in your area and safe for you and those around you.
Getting the right powerchair will improve your mobility and quality of life.
Please click to Contact Us or Telephone: 0800 328 2788 to talk to your friendly Personal Advisor and get a full assessment of your needs and choose the powerchair that is right for you.
