

Power chairs are motorized variations of standard manual wheelchairs.
Motorized wheelchairs are designed for both indoor and outdoor use, and are available in a variety of styles with varying features to suit different needs.
They are operated using a single joystick located in the chair’s armrest, making them easily maneuverable and ideal for those with limited dexterity and manual strength. Some power wheelchairs can even be modified to be operated by mouth or other body parts for individuals who lack full use of hands and arms.
How to Choose a Power Chair
Will the power chair need to be transported in an automobile?
Auto lifts are devices which attach to the interior or exterior of a vehicle to easily transport a mobility device. However, some power wheelchairs are lightweight (under 100 pounds) and can be easily disassembled without tools for easy transportation, often eliminating the need for an auto lift.
Will the chair be primarily used indoors or outdoors?
Heavy duty power wheelchairs have large motors, frames, and wheels, making them perfect for use outdoors on uneven terrain. While their longer frames enable additional torque to manage some inclines, they increase the chairs’ turning radius, making them harder to maneuver indoors and in tight spaces.
Powerbase wheelchairs have a low center of gravity for a smooth ride. They have a tight turning radius, making them excellent options for indoor use, and can be modified with suspension packages for outdoor use.
Light power chairs have small bases, perfect for maneuvering tight indoor spaces, but are not as well-suited for use on uneven terrain outdoors.
Be sure to discuss your specific needs with 101 Mobility [Wilmington]’s expert Mobility Consultants to ensure that you are matched with the best motorized wheelchair for your needs.