What are the best foldable power wheelchairs to buy from the market?
Sep 18, 2021
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A wheelchair is an assistive device designed to promote mobility for people who have difficulty walking. It is a chair with wheels used by the elderly, people with spinal cord issues, injuries, or other illnesses. The device can be power-driven or manually operated by individuals for locomotion.
They are available in a wide range of varieties to cater to the specific needs of the user. Some of the advanced wheelchairs have individualized controls, specialized seating adaptions, and many other unique features that offer flexibility to the user. The wheelchair has been around for many years and has served those with disabilities.
Out of the vast choice options in wheelchairs, the foldable power wheelchairs are the most convenient for the elderly or people with limited mobility. These devices have a tighter turning radius which makes them easier for travel purposes. Besides, not to forget, a foldable power wheelchair boosts the independence of the wheelchair user. They have a ton of benefits to them apart from allowing the user to partake in activities they wish to be a part of.
What Is the Weight Range of Wheelchairs?
There are three basic structures of wheelchairs. They are lightweight wheelchairs, traditional wheelchairs, and heavy-duty wheelchairs. Each of these types comes with a pre-defined weight limit.
Lightweight Wheelchairs: 200 - 250 lbs
Traditional Wheelchairs: 250 - 350 lbs
Heavy-Duty Wheelchairs: 700+ lbs
To find the right wheelchair, make sure you get an accurate assessment of your physical size. When people with disabilities already face a lot of challenges, choosing the right wheelchair shouldn't be one of them. The weight variations in wheelchairs are due to the materials used, the motor (or lack of motor), and accessories. However, opting for a lightweight wheelchair sounds ideal as they are easier to propel. In addition, they also have stress-free transportation.
What Is a Foldable Power Wheelchair?
As the name suggests, a foldable power wheelchair is a device that easily folds up for easy transportation. They are less heavy than the traditional models and offer locomotive freedom to the user. This wheelchair model is designed for portability. It weighs just between 15-60 lbs which is comparatively less than the mobility scooters. With a sturdy and durable structure, the foldable chair is perfect for everyday use. Meanwhile, it is a favorable option for travel purposes as well.
These types of wheelchairs can be easily disassembled and loaded into the back of the trunk or the SUV for easy transport. You need not have separate storage space for the same. It is also designed to be compact and portable. Besides, no additional equipment is required for this wheelchair. Cut costs and save money because this device does not need any expensive ramp, lifts, hoists, or vehicle adaptations as well. Before buying a foldable power wheelchair, ask yourself these questions:
What is my budget?
What are my requirements?
Do I need a wheelchair for travel purposes?
Will I use the foldable wheelchair indoors, outdoors, or both?
What is the top speed that I require?
Do I need extra seating options?
What is the maximum weight capacity I require?
What is the kind of controls I will need?
The Pros and Cons of Using a Foldable Power Wheelchair
The Pros
The biggest highlight of a foldable power wheelchair is the storage. They can be easily folded and kept away in the car or at home. Furthermore, they take less up space as well. Thus, if you travel often, then this foldable power wheelchair is the right choice that you can make.
Plus, the foldable chairs are lightweight which makes them perfect for travel enthusiasts. Moreover, they do not require any additional adaptations and can be used perfectly well in all situations.
Another point to note is that these devices have an easier operation in restrictive places. For instance, you can use them around your home and maneuver them without any hassle.
The Cons
Just like two sides of a coin, there are cons to foldable power wheelchairs as well. For example, a concerning disadvantage of the device is the cost.
If the power wheelchair would be cheaper, every disabled individual would purchase one of these devices. Another drawback of the foldable wheelchair is the regular repairs and maintenance to ensure optimal functioning of the device.
Last but not least, though the device has a sturdy frame, it may not be suitable for some people. One reason for this is the certain range of seat sizes.
Best Foldable Power Wheelchairs to Buy from The Market
JBH D09 Power Foldable Electric Wheelchair
Looking for a lightweight yet sturdy wheelchair? Then the JBH D09 is the perfect choice you can make. This model has easy assembly without having to disassemble. With this feature-rich foldable device, you can travel frequently without any worries. It is the ideal travel companion you can invest in. Weighing just 26.5 kg with a battery, it is one of the lightest models that you can find in the market. Easy fold in under 5 seconds with hassle-free storage options.
Features:
Portable & small for car, airplane or train travel
Aluminum alloy frame
Sturdy & strong front and rear wheels
Maximum weight capacity 396 lbs.’
Easy to use and reliable 360° joystick controller
Two silent brushless motors for superior power
Accurate battery life indicator
Smart electromagnetic brake
Choice of attractive colors
JBH D12 Power Foldable Power Electric wheelchair
With an easy to fold design, this JBH D12 Power Foldable Power Electric wheelchair is suitable for travel needs. It features a patented design keeping in mind the user's comfort. Besides, the compact wheelchair has an alloy frame that makes it lightweight. Also, it features a removable battery.
Features:
Driving range of 14-28 km
6-8 hours of charging time
Powerful & efficient brushless hub motor
Best after-sales service
Warranty available
Lightweight yet reliable
0-12° Climbing ability
JBH D23 Power Electric Power wheelchair
Why give up on freedom when you can have the JBH D23 model wheelchair? This superior device is an ergonomically designed wheelchair with ultimate features. It features a comfortable seat that allows long seating comfort. Meanwhile, it has a high weight capacity of 120 kgs. To add to it, the device has a 360W brushless motor too.
Features:
Driving distance of over 35 km
Waterproof and corrosion-free
Electromagnetic braking system
360° joystick controller
Lightweight alloy frame
Air circulation cushion
Easy to fold
What Should You Consider Before Buying a Foldable Wheelchair?
Weight: Before purchasing a foldable wheelchair, make sure you are aware of the variations in size and. It is important to consider the weight of the wheelchair as handling the device is based on physical strength. While some may find it easy to use weighted products, such may not be the case for all.
Functionalities: The right wheelchair for you is the one that has all the necessary features that you would want. For instance, if you need a space-saving wheelchair, look for quality foldable devices that take up very little space. In addition, today, there are many advanced functionalities to the foldable wheelchair.
Material: A wheelchair is something that you will be extensively using. This is the reason why you must choose a device that is made using quality material. It should not have bad fittings or shouldn't feel uncomfortable.
Portability: The whole purpose of getting a foldable wheelchair is its ability. Thus make sure the device you choose is completely foldable and can be stored away easily while traveling. If you travel frequently, then the wheelchair should have easy assembly as well.
Maintenance & Warranty: It is always best to choose a foldable wheelchair that can be serviced easily with a warranty. Choosing a device with a warranty secures your purchase and offers a wide range of other benefits as well.
Battery: Since this is a foldable power wheelchair, the battery is another crucial aspect of the device that you shouldn't overlook. There are different types of batteries that are used in the wheelchair. Get in touch with the team to know which battery suits your preferred style of a power wheelchair. Also, not to forget, always make sure to carry the battery charger along with you.
Controls: Today, these advanced foldable power wheelchairs have a lot of controls and functions that offer flexibility to the user. However, before you go ahead to purchase one of these devices, make sure you are aware of the kind of controls you will need. Next, also check if all these controls or functionalities are working properly. You can also find power wheelchairs that can be controlled just by your voice.
Final Words!
If you are looking for an advanced wheelchair, then the foldable power wheelchair is the ideal choice you can make. Since the wheelchair offers flexibility to the user, you must choose the best quality device. Remember, it is not just a form of mobility for the disabled but also an expression of their freedom. It helps the user to be more mobile and explore places by themselves. Thus, there should be no compromise on purchasing the best foldable power wheelchair in the market. Make sure that you follow the important steps and considerations given above to help you pick a quality device.