Types of Power Chairs and their Common Features

Posted on 31 January 2023
By Accessibility Medical
Posted in Electric Wheelchair, Power Wheelchair, Powerchair
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Power chairs have shown to be an extremely helpful way to maintain or even gain independence. Power chairs often have features that allow individuals to shift into different positions throughout their day while only having to make minimal movements (fingertips). We will be looking closer at the different types of power chairs, as well as some common features that may be found on a power chair.

The different types of power chairs include Front Wheeled, Mid-Wheeled, and Rear-Wheeled power chairs. These power chairs generally serve the same function, but each type has its own unique set of pros and (potential) cons.

Front-Wheeled

Pro: Great turning radius, easier time rolling over objects

Con: “Fish-tail” at high speeds, Less power

Mid-Wheeled

Pro: Best turning radius, Smallest surface area, Great Stability

Con: Challenges passing aggressive outdoor terrain

Rear-Wheeled

Pro: Best suspension/speed, Outdoor use, Stability

Con: Largest Turning radius

Some power chairs have unique features that allow them to tilt/rotate in space with the press of a button. These features can potentially have a large impact in the ability of the chair user to perform specific tasks or movements. Common power chair seat abilities include but are not limited to the following; tilt, recline, elevation, elevating legrests, and standing.