The technology used in wheelchair development has come a long way over the last couple decades. While electric wheelchairs have become increasingly common (especially as their price point has become more affordable for many users), there are still plenty of benefits to using manual wheelchairs in Binghamton, NY when the user’s condition allows.
Here’s a quick overview about some of the primary advantages associated with using a manual wheelchair:
- Use any time: With a manual wheelchair, you don’t need to worry about keeping it appropriately charged. You’ll be able to use it any time, anywhere without wondering how much juice you have left in the battery. This makes it highly versatile and reliable.
- Cost effective: Because manual wheelchairs lack some of the complex design features and technologies of their electric or motorized counterparts, they tend to be much more affordable. The lack of these other features means they also do not require as much maintenance, which is another way you can save money on their use in the long run.
- Durability: Manual wheelchairs have fewer moving parts than motorized wheelchairs, which means they have greater durability. They also tend to come with a higher-quality frame that is stronger and more rigid. This enhances the durability of the wheelchair, and also makes it easier to propel forward.
- Lightweight: The lack of motors and other electric components make wheelchairs much lighter, and therefore easier to transport. They can be folded up and picked up by a single person, and stowed away in vehicles to be transported from place to place as needed. Electric wheelchairs are quite heavy and need multiple people to pick them up and move them around.
- Exercise: For a person who is wheelchair bound, manual wheelchairs provide an opportunity for them to still get some exercise if they are capable of propelling themselves forward with their arms. In fact, many people who must use wheelchairs prefer manual wheelchairs for this reason—their ability to maneuver themselves around helps them to stay in shape and gives them a greater feeling of agency and control than they would have if they were relying on machine technology to move themselves from place to place.
- Flexibility: Manual wheelchairs have greater flexibility than motorized wheelchairs. Typically, they will come with adjustable frames that allow you to set the heights and cushions to your own preferences. This means a single wheelchair can be personalized to serve a broader range of users.
- Compact: Because the wheelchairs can easily be folded up and don’t have as many components attached to them, they can be easily stored away and kept out of the way of other items or people.
- Less disruptive: The lighter weight of the wheelchair means it will cause less damage to the environment than a motorized wheelchair. Trails and pavements will remain in good condition, as will grass lawns and turf.
For more information about the benefits and functions of a manual wheelchair, contact Penn York Medical, your source for home medical equipment in Binghamton, NY.