Purchasing Resources for Electric Wheelchairs

Electric Wheelchairs Key Terms

Learn terminology for types and features of electric wheelchairs
By Adah Chung Electric wheelchairs, or power wheelchairs, are wheelchairs that are powered by battery to help maximize a person's mobility. They can be customized for special seating and positioning for the user and can come with a variety of features to make the operation of power wheelchairs more efficient. Finding the right electric wheelchair requires a blend of knowing the features available as well as knowing an individual's needs when it comes to mobility. Different types of drives are available.
 

Rear-wheel drive

Rear-wheel drive on an electric wheelchair refers to the placement of the largest wheels on a power wheelchair. Placement of the largest wheels on the rear of the wheelchair allows for speed and stability, but often a poor turning radius. Rear-wheel drive electric wheelchairs are the most popular of the types of electric wheelchairs.
Try: 4 Medical Supplies provides a description of rear-wheel drive power wheelchairs as well as examples.

Center-wheel drive, mid-wheel drive

Center-wheel drive wheelchairs have the largest wheels positioned in the center for the wheelchair, with two sets of smaller casters in the front and back for safety and stability. Center-wheel drive wheelchairs allow for a tight turning radius and better navigation over curbs and other obstacles.
Try: Spinlife describes center-wheel drive electric wheelchairs in more depth. Scroll down the page to read.

Front-wheel drive

A front-wheel drive power wheelchair has good maneuverability and turning radius, as the large wheels sit forward of the seat. A disadvantage of front-wheel drive can be less stability at higher speeds.
Try: The Med Supply Guide describes front-wheel drive electric wheelchairs as well as providing an example of one.

Deep cycle batteries

Electric wheelchairs use deep cycle batteries, which means that batteries can be drained without damage to the battery. This is an important feature for an electric wheelchair battery, as it is typically only charged one time a day.
Try: For more information, read the article on wheelchair batteries on the Wheelchair Site.

Powered seating

In addition to wheelchairs, seating can also be powered. This means that the chair on a wheelchair can be tilted or reclined to provide better positioning and to relieve pressure while sitting. Powered seating is generally accessible by the same joystick that controls the wheelchair.
Try: Invacare provides a list of powered seating products available.

Portable/travel power wheelchairs

Portable/travel power wheelchairs are those that are foldable or easily taken apart for transport. They generally weigh 100 pounds or less and have smaller frames for better accessibility.
Try: U.S. Medical Supplies defines and has examples of portable/travel power wheelchairs.