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Natasha's Recommended Powerchairs
What are the benefits of a Powerchair?
Moving a wheelchair can be very tiring. If you have joint pains, coordination problems or muscle weakness, a manual wheelchair may leave you needing additional help from another person to push you around. A power assisted chair can give you a newfound sense of freedom. You can use these chairs both indoors and outdoors and the motor will give you the confidence that you can travel for longer without the need to rely on someone else.
From lightweight, collapsible chairs to heavy duty, long distance chairs, the CareCo variety is huge, so there will always be something to meet your needs. I love the fact that CareCo not only offer a large choice of electric wheelchairs but that they have additional features such as powered seat risers, giving you the freedom to talk to people at eye level while still in the chair, or even reach items on the higher shelves when you are in town. Think about where and when you will use the chair and how you will get into it or even transport it. On this page you'll find my top tips and advice for finding the right powerchair, as well as my favourite models in the CareCo range.
Battery range - Make sure you are aware of the mileage the chair can offer and that it meets you expected journey needs.
Small turning circles (6 wheels) - You may need this if you're planning on using the chair indoors or in confined spaces.
Suspension systems - This will reduce the impact of uneven surfaces offering a smoother drive which is great if you have pain or are sensitive to abrupt movements.
Rear wheel drives - Good idea if you will be going up hills or ramps regularly.
Smaller batteries are lighter but won't travel as far.
Will you be travelling mostly indoors, outdoors, or both?
Are you within the safe user weight limits of the powerchair?
Is enough space to sit comfortably with enough support?
Will you be travelling in narrow areas or limited spaces?
How far will you need to go on a single charge?
Like a mobility scooter, the right powerchair for you will be a very personal decision. So, if you can get to a showroom to test drive a few models, I definitely encourage it! Below are my 5 favourite powerchairs from the CareCo range, including lightweight portable models and heavy-duty long-distance chairs.
I-Go PowerGlide Powerstroll
Who could benefit?
Attendants of transit wheelchair users or those with limited strength or stamina will love the PowerGlide.
What makes it useful?
For those who find pushing or propelling a wheelchair up steep gradients difficult or those who tire assisting a wheelchair user on longer journeys, this device will take the effort out of the movement by providing electric power assistance.
It is easy to operate and can be switched on and off with a small rocker mounted to the handles. With adjustable speed settings it can be adapted to the needs of the user and attendant.
Things to consider
You will need to remove the battery and motor section to collapse the chair, which requires you to be able to get underneath the chair and lift up to 14kg.
The extra wheels may impair the attendant's ability to walk close behind the wheelchair so could cause some discomfort because of gait changes.
I-Go Zenith Pro
Who could benefit?
If you're looking for a powerchair to use outdoors, the Zenith Pro fits the bill. It is also great for those dealing with small or narrow environments (like galley kitchens and hallways), and anyone with joint and muscle pains or weaknesses.
What makes it useful?
Looking less like a wheelchair and more like a scooter this powerchair offers a modern design to the powerchair range. The backrest is able to be reclined not only for comfort but to help those who find they begin to fall to one side as they tire.
It has a remarkably small turning circle so is perfect for use in small spaces like galley kitchens and hallways. The chassis-mounted suspension increases the comfort level, which is great if you are sensitive to jolts and bumps.
Things to consider
The backrest angle is adjusted via a lever on the left side, so check that you have sufficient grip and strength in your left hand to operate this independently.
The armrests are adjusted with screw threads to the rear of the chair so you will need to alter them before you are seated, or ask for someone to help you.
CareCo Easi Go
Who could benefit ?
This is a good choice if you struggle to lift a single-piece powerchair.
What makes it useful?
As it is able to be broken in to 4 pieces, this chair is lighter to lift, making it easier for users or their assistants to dismantle and transport. The very small turning circle makes it suitable for use indoors, around tight corners and in smaller rooms.
The swivel seat is also useful for those who struggle to change position. Looking more like a scooter than a traditional wheelchair, this also offers you a chance to have your own identity.
Things to consider
A contoured seat makes it unsuitable for additional pressure cushion use. The very responsive hand controls can be very useful if you have poor strength but may cause problems if you have ataxia or tremors.
If you have rugs or large thresholds you may struggle to manoeuvre the chair.