How to control a power wheelchair

Power wheelchairs can be a great way for people with limited mobility to get around.  The standard way to control a power wheelchair is via a joystick typically mounted on either side of the wheelchair.

However, if you have a limited range of motion or strength, then using the standard joystick may be difficult. There are a growing number of alternative options that are becoming available.  These include light touch mini joysticks, switches, touchpads and sip, and puff controls.

Mini Joystick

Mini Joystick is usually much smaller than the standard wheelchair joystick.  They required less force to deflect or operate the joystick, which may be a low as 18g of pressure.  Like a standard wheelchair joystick most of them are proportional, so the more they are deflected the faster the chair will move.  However, some joysticks are controlled by the pressure applied and do not deflect. To keep the joystick compact, buttons for the power, lights, and actuators are not part of the joystick housing, as these controls are operated by alternative methods.  Mini joysticks may activate a mode change on pushing directly down on the joystick from a neutral position.

Touchpads

Touchpads feel similar to what you may find on a computer for controlling its mouse cursor.  They are based on touch and no pressure is required.  Touchpads can be configured for the user so that touching a specific part of the touchpad relative to the center will move in that direction.  Alternatively, it can be operated by dragging a finger along the touchpad in the desired direction. 

Switches

Switches by their nature do not have proportional control.  So activating a switch will move in a particular direction and releasing the switch will stop.  However as a power wheelchair’s acceleration and deceleration characteristics can be set up to be gradual, driving can still be smooth.  Switches can be mechanical momentary switches or based on proximity where no physical contact is required.  Multiple switches can be used, one for each direction, three switches as in a head array or a single switch that is used with some scanning display.

Sip and Puff Controls

These are operated by sucking and blowing on a mouthpiece.  Sip and puff pressures are programmable and will also have a mode change feature in order to operate other chair controls such as lights or actuators.  They require quite a bit of practice by the user to get good at driving.  Not only does the wheelchair electronics distinguish between a sip and a puff, but it can also recognize the strength of the sip and puff.  Basic Sip and Puff pressure is an interpretation as… HARD PUFF – Forward, SOFT PUFF – Right, SOFT SIP – Left and HARD SIP – Reverse.

In some cases, it may be necessary to also connect an emergency stop switch.  The stop switch needs to be mounted in a position for easy activation by the user.

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Vissco Mobility Solutions Products for Rehabilitation

Millions across the globe with mobility disabilities are now leading fulfilling and independent lives thanks to mobility solutions. Mobility assistive technology has paved the way for cutting-edge mobility aids that help them experience the joy and freedom. These scientifically designed products promote positive aging and independence at home and outside. The process of rehabilitation for patients with mobility disabilities has become simpler and more scientific with the help of a wide range of solutions.

Reasons for Movement Loss

Immobility can be a traumatic experience and can be a result of many factors. Let’s take a look at some of the primary causes that restrict mobility:

• Injury: Loss of movement can occur due to severe injury in a motor, diving, surfing, horseback riding or hard contact sports accident. The injuries suffered as a result of these accidents cause severe damage to the head or spinal cord leading to mobility disabilities.
• Paralysis: Trauma to the head or spinal cord due to an accident can result in temporary or permanent paralysis. A stroke can also block the supply of blood to the brain leading to paralysis and loss of movement.
• Neurological disorders: Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Ataxia, Huntington’s disease and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy can compromise the body’s ability to produce movement.

Types of Mobility Solutions

Loss of mobility can have severe physiological and psychological repercussions. The thought of not being able to walk can leave the strongest people shattered. However, a wide range of mobility solutions is now easily available to ensure an independent and normal life for people across age groups and conditions:

• Walking sticks: They are available in a variety of makes and types and can be crafted out of wood or even come in folding options made of aluminum. Walking sticks can be customized to suit your height and must come with a rubber tip to ensure you don’t slide.
• Crutches: They come in a wide range of ergonomic designs to ensure comfort, safety, and better mobility.
• Walkers: You can opt for walkers with or without wheels for easy movement. Most walkers are foldable to ensure easy storage.
• Wheelchairs: A rigid wheelchair is crafted out of solid steel and is appropriate for those with optimum upper body strength. On the other hand, a folding wheelchair is right for the very young or old and those dependent on companions to steer them.
• Powerchairs: These electric wheelchairs can be easily manoeuvred and are best for those with advanced movement disorders.

How mobility aids promote independence

With the latest advances in technology and science, there is no dearth of the latest and improved mobility solutions. After some practice and experience, a mobility aid becomes part of the body of the user allowing independence and easier access. Vissco's Product Innovation and Development Cell is tirelessly working to improve the functioning and comfort of our products to ensure more ease and mobility. Loss of movement should in no way restrict your life and with the right mobility solutions, you can live a life of dignity.

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Best Rollator Walkers With Quick Foldaway Aluminum Frame

Lightweight Aluminium weighs less than 5 kg (net), Folds in seconds for storage and transportation. Sturdy height adjustable handles with brakes. Swivel front wheels for ease of maneuverability.

A Rollator Walkers is a walker that has a wheel on each of the legs. There are three and four-wheel rollators which include a seat and a basket for carrying a few things. They come in different colors, sizes, weights, and height. Therefore, all you have to do is choose one that suits your needs. The most important factors that you should consider while purchasing one are the weight, three or four wheels, width and the seat. These are must-have features. Other factors such as the color are not as critical.

Rollator Walkers Features:

Our Price : Rs 5500

• Quick foldaway aluminum frame, built-in padded seat, handbrake lever.
• Comes with a durable padded seat and a padded backrest that can be folded up or down.
• 7.5" casters are ideal for indoor and outdoor use and deluxe loop-locks to ensure rollator will not slip when seated.
• Sturdy Steel frame comes with a basket for storing personal items.

Rollator Walkers Measurements:

• Handle Height: 31-37"
• Seat Dimensions: 8.5"(D) x 15"(W) x 21"(H)
• Weight Capacity: 125 Kg.

This CP Walker is easy to handle and use. Also, this Stainless Steel CP Walker is extensively used by the patient to walk properly with its external support.

Our Price: Rs 6200

CP Walker with Stainless Steel offered to come in sturdy construction finish so as to provide for optimum functional support in physiotherapy sessions. For comfortable usage, these CP Walker come supported by wider supporting legs, gripped handles, adjustable knobs and other supports for comfortable walking. Some of its features include a function as support for disabled to gain walking practice; sturdy construction finish for lasting usage; made available at competitive prices. These walkers have four posts with wheels on each. They can help children who have issues with balance and posture.

CP Walker Features:

• Four-wheeled posture control walkers
• Reduces the risk of fractures and osteoporosis
• Increases bone strength
• Low maintenance
• Efficient working
• Highly demanded

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Lightweight Aluminium Wheelchair Benefits

A lightweight Aluminum Wheelchair is easier to propel and maneuver than a standard mobility chair. This type of mobility chair is also easier to transport and store. Typically weighing 15 to 34 pounds, lightweight models are sometimes referred to as transport chairs and feature four small wheels or have two large wheels in the rear and two small wheels in the front.

 Available Types

• Folding models are most popular for occasional use because the rear wheels can be removed, allowing the folded chair to be stored in very small spaces.

• The most popular lightweight aluminum wheel chair model is the rigid wheelchair. Rigid mobility chairs are lighter than folding wheelchairs because they don’t feature the additional hardware and mechanisms that folding wheelchairs require.

• The backrest of a rigid wheelchair folds for transport. Unlike folding wheelchairs, the middle of a rigid wheelchair does not fold.

• Standard lightweight aluminum wheel chairs are made of aluminum but titanium is the material of choice for lightweight mobility aids. Titanium is not only a lighter metal, it is more durable and features built-in shock absorption. Titanium wheelchairs are available in both rigid and folding models and are more expensive than aluminum wheelchairs.

Features

• Some lightweight aluminum mobility chairs feature adjustable frames, which allow you to change the angle of the seat back to achieve several different seating positions.

• Lightweight aluminum wheelchairs with desk-length armrests enable users to sit closer to a table or desk; while, full-length armrests provide complete support of the arms.

• Most models come with removable swing-away footrests that enable easy transferring and provide leg support while the user is seated. Typically, swing-away footrests cannot be raised or lowered. Optional leg rests feature calf pads that provide support and elevate each leg to the desired position.

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Helpful Tips for Traveling on an Airline with Lightweight Foldable Lithium-Ion Battery Powered wheelchair

                                   

Let's face it -- traveling by Airplane is stressful enough for all of us.  There's likely not a person on this earth that enjoys the hassles that go into traveling by air, and worse yet, having to take a mobility aid like a power wheelchair along for the ride can make it much worse.  Luckily, and hopefully, you have an Economy Folding Power Wheelchair which can be easily folded for transportation.  

One of the most commonly asked questions we get is whether the Economy Folding Power Wheelchair and its Lithium Battery are permitted on an airplane.  The answer is "YES!"  Our 10 Ah batteries are within the US Department of Transportation guidelines on lithium batteries for air travel.   

Lithium-ion battery-powered wheelchairs or mobility aids:

• For lithium-ion battery-powered wheelchair or mobility aids:
• Visual inspection, including removal of the battery where necessary, reveals no obvious defects.
• Battery terminals are protected from short circuits (e.g., by being enclosed within a battery container that is securely attached to the mobility aid).
• The pilot-in-command is advised, either orally or in writing, prior to departure, as to the location of the battery aboard the aircraft.
• The wheelchair or mobility aid is loaded, stowed, secured and unloaded in an upright position and in a manner that prevents unintentional activation and protects it from damage.
• A lithium-metal (non-rechargeable) battery-powered is forbidden aboard a passenger-carrying aircraft.
• A wheelchair or other mobility aid when carried as checked or carry-on baggage:
• The wheelchair or mobility aid is designed and constructed in a manner to allow for storage in either a cargo compartment or in the passenger cabin.
• The lithium-ion battery and any spare batteries are carried in the same manner as other spare lithium-ion batteries are.

Now that we know the batteries conform to US Department of Transportation regulations, to get specific limitations, we turn to the individual airlines for their specific restrictions and specifications.  For our purposes here, we will use a couple of major North American carriers -- Delta and United Airlines for our purposes.   Each one has very similar restrictions, but all generally follow the same accord. 

1. Delta Airlines Lithium Battery Regulations

Click on the link above and scroll down to "WHEELCHAIRS/MOBILITY AIDS WITH LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES" to expand the notes:

Lithium-ion batteries that power mobility devices and are within the federal restrictions listed below are allowed on passenger aircraft.

For collapsible mobility aids, customers will be allowed two (2) spare batteries if less than 160 WH for collapsible mobility aids, or one (1) spare battery if less than 300 WH.

For mobility aids where the lithium battery is installed as an integral part of the device, there is no battery size limit.

Other Lithium-ion Battery Requirements:

The battery terminals must be protected from short circuiting.

The battery must have been tested per UN Part III, Section 38.3.

2. United Airlines Lithium Battery Regulations 

Click on the link above and scroll down to the area pertaining to "Lithium-ion battery" which reads: 

Lithium-ion battery: Lithium-ion batteries are classified independently of other battery types. Lithium batteries may overheat and ignite in certain conditions and, once ignited, may be difficult to extinguish. Lithium batteries are considered a hazardous material for which the following restrictions apply:

There must be at least one effective means designed into the wheelchair or mobility aid in order to prevent accidental activation or possible short-circuiting

If you have a collapsible mobility device, the battery must be removed and cannot exceed 300-watt-hours.

If you have a non-collapsible device, Federal Regulations allow for one large lithium-ion battery to be transported installed in the device and up to two spare batteries to be transported in carry-on baggage. There is no watt-hour limit for the battery installed in the device. If you have one spare battery, it must not exceed 300-watt-hours. If you have two spare batteries, they must not exceed 160-watt-hours each.

The watt-hour rating is a measure by which lithium ion batteries are regulated. If you are unsure of the watt-hour rating of your lithium ion battery, contact the manufacturer of your device. Lithium-ion batteries manufactured after January 1, 2009, are required to be marked with the watt-hour rating.

If you are not using one of these carriers, but another different carrier, which may be a smaller airline, you will likely find the same information they have posted on their website regarding their own lithium battery restrictions.  If by chance they do not have this information posted on their website, it is prudent to call and ask for this information.  If you reach a representative that is unaware of this type of information, you should ask to speak to a supervisor, and they will in most cases have that information to give to you.  If the airline requires more information, such as the UN 38.3 Air Cargo Battery Test report, or a Material Safety Data Sheet, please contact us, and we can provide this documentation to you for our batteries.  Please note, this is specific to EZ Lite Cruiser batteries, and not other batteries.  Most airlines do not require this level of information, but if they ask for it, we certainly have it to provide to them.

Here are some other helpful tips when traveling with a lightweight and fold-able power wheelchair, like the Economy Folding Power Wheelchair:

1. When making your reservation, or after it has been done, you can add some a note to the itinerary to let the airline know you are traveling with a power wheelchair.  Airlines are very compassionate to those with the need for mobility aids and will go out of their way to assist.  By adding this information to your itinerary, the clerk at check-in will be ready to assist in taking the power chair from you there, and arranging for the airline to give you a 'lift' to the gate, or they will ensure that you can get through security and ride your power chair all the way up to the gate.

2. When it is time to give your Economy Folding Power Wheelchair power chair to the baggage handlers, we recommend disconnecting the joystick from the armrest, and securing it with some bubble wrap, and storing it either between the seat cushion and back support cushion, or tucking it away in the storage compartment underneath the seat, where the battery would go.  This will ensure your joystick is not damaged while the chair is in the possession of the airline's baggage handlers. 

3. You will need to disconnect the battery from your Economy Folding Power Wheelchair and bring it on board the airplane.  As you would disconnect it any other time, simply pull apart the two connectors and take the battery off your chair.  The battery should be stored in the convenient carrying case that comes with your battery.  This makes it easy to bring it on board the airplane in your carry-on.  Some airlines go as far as needing to have the battery connectors taped up to ensure there is no short circuit of it, which is easily done with a strip of electrical tape. 

Now, if by chance your Economy Folding Power Wheelchair is damaged by the airlines, do not worry.  The airlines in virtually every case will own up to the fact that it was damaged during transit, and will pay to replace any damaged parts or in a case of total damage, will replace the chair for you in full.  

There are essentially two major companies that are contracted by the airlines to deal with these types of claims.  

A - Global Repair Group, based out of Northbrook, IL., has been in business for many years and is one of the trusted places to go for repairs and service with an Airline claim.  They have a nationwide network of technicians located throughout the US and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

B - ScootAround, based out of Winnipeg, Manitoba in Canada, has also been a staple in the industry, assisting users who travel with mobility aids on airlines.  They can help with claims for anyone across North America, and are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for your convenience.

When you reclaim your power chair from the airline, inspect it right away to make sure it works properly and look it over to see if there is any damage.  If there is damage, you should notify an airline representative right away, so that they can document the problem and they will let you know who to contact regarding the claim.  In all likelihood, one of the two companies, Global Repair Group or ScootAround, mentioned above, will assist with the claim, and we will assist with the process of getting replacement parts for your Economy Folding Power Wheelchair to assist in the service and maintenance process, or be getting you a new Economy Folding Power Wheelchair as a total replacement, if that were to happen. 

If you have any further questions about travel with your Economy Folding Power Wheelchair, please do Contact Us, and we'll be glad to assist.

Safe Travels!

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Roll in Showers & Shower Proof Wheelchairs for Elderly and Senior Citizens

Most hotels and public places around the world are not wheelchair friendly for travelling. How can Roll-in Showers & Shower Proof Wheelchairs make a difference?

A lot of efforts have been taken to build wheelchair accessible platforms at many private and public places recently. However, the availability of wheelchair accessible hotels and roll in showers is scarce which means that individuals with limited mobility can’t be sure of accessing bathrooms while on the go. It discourages to travel.

Narrow bathroom doors, kerbs in a bathroom and less manoeuvrability space make it difficult and unsafe for wheelchair users to transfer. There is a need for safety, especially when in new environments. The varying heights of the commode can also prove to be a problem. Sometimes, the grab bars aren’t present in the bathrooms making it difficult for wheelchair users to shift in and out of their wheelchair. Although the infrastructural barriers restrict the travel options for wheelchair users, it doesn’t mean they have to restrict their plans to travel wherever they want.

Roll shower and bathroom use

Roll-in showers in the bathroom

The solution for this could be that the hotels can probably keep a shower proof wheelchair and commode wheelchair which fits in their bathrooms. Or, a wise option could be that the users carry their own travel-friendly shower and commode wheelchair with them while travelling. But is such a wheelchair available in the Indian market? If a wheelchair that is travel-friendly, showerproof and has the arrangement of a commode, comes is the market, it would make travel hassle-free and safe for all the wheelchair users.

A Pune based start-up Arcatron Mobility is focused on creating one such wheelchair. These wheelchair manufacturers are a group of young entrepreneurs who are focused on creating innovative solutions for the disabled/ mobility impaired. They have come up with two very interesting models of wheelchairs, the SAS100 and SSS100. Both these models are shower proof wheelchairs and quite user-friendly. However, the problems faced by the wheelchair users while travelling are yet to be solved. Arcatron Mobility has been working towards developing a new model which is not only shower proof but also portable i.e. it can be packed into a bag within a minute. Having easy and safe access with the help of a wheelchair and roll in showers is the need for wheelchair users while travelling. Thus, this new model of commode wheelchair comes with a commode pan and can be adjusted according to the height of the commode with the help of an attendant. It can easily pass through narrow door frames as well, which is another important factor for users while traveling. The wheelchair is an amalgamation of comfort and efficiency to help the mobility impaired to be able to travel without worry. It is the ideal travel companion and thus, is rightly called, Frido.

Frido has the feature of height adjustability and an armrest that can swivel to the back, which makes shifting in and out of bed easy even if the heights of beds in the hotel rooms vary. It features a unique design of a push handle which makes rolling over wall-mounted commodes or commodes with protruding flush tanks easy. It is built to last with rust proof material and being a self-propelled wheelchair, it gives freedom to the wheelchair users to do all the things on their own without any worry. With a portable wheelchair model like Frido, travel for the mobility impaired will not be a task anymore.

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3 Things To Consider While Buying A Shower Wheel Chair for Senior Citizen Wheelchair

Want to take a shower safely while having limited mobility? A Shower Wheel Chair is what you require to take a shower independently and with safety. But there are 3 important questions that you must ask before buying a shower wheelchair. What are they? Let’s go through some key attributes that make a great shower wheelchair.

People with disability need to face the challenges of immobility also with losing dependence to do things their way. That’s why a disabled person misses their freedom the most. But do you know what a disabled person fears the most? No, it’s neither the prejudice they face in the society nor the constant reminder that they have limited abilities. But it is their fear of visiting bathrooms. Just imagine a person shuddering at the idea of taking a shower or answering nature’s call. Without a shower wheelchair – all because they have limited mobility.

This is where technology and medical sciences have to work hand-in-hand to help solve various aspects of immobility. The answer to this problem lies in a shower wheelchair, also called bath chair, bath bench, shower stools or shower bench. They are designed to provide support to anyone who can’t stand safely alone while taking a shower.

Injuries and disabilities can occur anytime, leaving you with limited ability to move either for a brief time or forever, depending on the degree of injury. But not having access to shower due to immobility can be excruciating. You might possibly think that any chair or stool can be used for this purpose. But limited mobility makes the surroundings really hazardous for a wheelchair user, especially if that place is a bathroom.

We guess, by now you might consider buying a shower wheelchair which is not only for your safety and mobility but also for overall convenience and comfort while bathing and using a commode. But what are the things that you must keep in mind while buying a shower chair? Here are top 3 questions which need to be answered before you finalize that shower chair for yourself.

Three Questions To Ask Before Buying a Shower Chair

ROBUST CONSTRUCTION

The foremost thing to consider when buying a shower chair is how robust it is in its construction. You don’t want to buy a wheelchair that is wobbly, unstable or rickety. This problem might get even worse while transferring an individual from the chair to bed and vice-versa.

When you are checking a chair to be robust, consider the weight capacity as well. Shower wheelchairs come in a variety of sizes depending upon the requirements of the customers.

PORTABILITY

The shower chairs available in the market are available in different construction and sizes. Many shower chairs come with locking casters that ensure safety while transferring in and out of the bath. Others don’t have wheels but only safe-grip leg coverings that prevent the chair from slipping.

Try avoiding dismantled wheelchair because the tools or parts kept separately either damage themselves or other parts of the chair when packed for transit.  A shower wheelchair along with being portable should be compact and not occupy too much of space when not in use.

MATERIAL

It is important to consider the material used in the build of a shower wheelchair.  Listed below are few materials that you should look out for: –

Aluminum – Even though it is lightweight, the chair made from this material is rustproof which is a big plus point as using a shower involves a lot of moisture and humidity. However, the chairs made from a good quality aluminum alloy are usually very expensive.

Stainless Steel – The high corrosion resistance of steel makes it ideal for use in dairy industries, surgical equipment and in wheelchairs. The best part is that chairs made from this material are economical.

Coated Mild Steel – This material should be avoided because once the coating begins to wear down it begins to rust. Given the fact that the shower chair will be used in moist conditions, the wearing of this coating usually happens sooner.

Plastic – Even though plastic wheelchairs are lightweight, they lack the required strength that is required in a shower wheelchair. Besides, the plastic chairs don’t have as many features as wheelchairs made from other material.

Shower Wheelchair – Frido Break Free By Arcatron Mobility

Frido Break Free designed by Arcatron Mobility is a user-inspired design that addresses the fear of disabled and people needing assisted living.  It gives them freedom and the much-needed confidence to do their daily tasks of living with pride and convenience. Frido, which sounds closer to freedom is a first major attempt to make bathroom access much more dignified and safer at all levels for individuals with limited mobility.

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