The rise in popularity of electric wheelchairs has transformed the lives of individuals with mobility challenges, offering unparalleled freedom and independence. However, with this technological advancement comes the responsibility to prioritise safety, as the powered nature of these personal mobility aids (PMA) introduces specific risks that demand careful attention. To help ensure your safety or that of your loved ones, we’ve compiled seven essential guidelines for using a motorised wheelchair responsibly.
1. Familiarise Yourself with Your Wheelchair
Understanding your wheelchair is the cornerstone of safe operation. Start by thoroughly reviewing the user manual provided by the manufacturer. Familiarise yourself with the controls, features, and built-in safety mechanisms—everything from speed adjustments to emergency stop functions.
Once you’ve learned the basics, practice operating the wheelchair in a controlled environment. Test how it responds to different commands, such as accelerating, reversing, and turning. Experiment with its performance on various surfaces like carpets, pavements, and inclines. This will help you build confidence and develop a better understanding of your wheelchair’s capabilities and limitations.
Remember, regular training sessions or refresher courses can further enhance your proficiency and help you adapt to any new or unfamiliar situations. Practising defensive driving techniques, such as anticipating obstacles and maintaining safe speeds, is equally crucial to avoid potential hazards.
2. Don’t Forget to Put Your Seatbelt On
While it may seem like a simple precaution, wearing a seatbelt in your motorised wheelchair is a non-negotiable safety measure. Make it a habit to fasten your seatbelt every time you use your wheelchair, even for short trips, to minimise the risk of falls or injuries. If you’re assisting someone else, ensure their seatbelt is correctly fastened and adjusted for comfort and effectiveness.
3. Inspect Your Motorised Wheelchair Regularly
Regular inspections of your motorised wheelchair are vital to keep it in optimal working condition. Before each use, check for visible signs of wear or damage and pay close attention to critical components like the brakes, tyre inflation, and battery life.
Additionally, stay informed about any recalls or safety notices related to your specific wheelchair model. Manufacturers often provide updates regarding warranties, safety improvements, or potential issues, so staying proactive about these updates not only enhances safety but also helps maintain the longevity of your wheelchair.
4. Stay Alert and Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
Navigating the world with a motorised wheelchair requires a heightened awareness of your environment to ensure both your safety and the safety of others. Whether indoors or outdoors, anticipate and adapt to potential challenges such as uneven surfaces, slopes, or changes in weather conditions.
Exercise caution on inclines and avoid wet or slippery surfaces, as these can compromise traction and braking capabilities. Uneven terrain can increase the risk of tipping or loss of balance, so it’s best to steer clear of such areas whenever possible.
5. Turn the Chair Off When Getting In and Out
Always turn off your motorised wheelchair when getting in or out of it as it prevents accidental movement caused by unintended joystick or button presses during transitions. This simple precaution can significantly reduce the risk of injury, so be diligent about this practice to steer clear of avoidable accidents.
6. Respect Your Wheelchair’s Weight Capacity
Every motorised wheelchair has a specified weight capacity and exceeding it can compromise stability and increase wear on essential components. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s weight limit, taking into account not just your body weight but also the weight of any personal belongings you carry. Distribute the load evenly to maintain optimal balance.
Additionally, avoid placing weight on the armrests or footplates when getting in and out of your wheelchair. These parts are not designed to support your full body weight and may sustain damage or cause injury if misused. Be mindful to only use designated weight-bearing areas of the wheelchair during transfers, and never lean or sit on non-weight-bearing components at any time.
7. Be Patient
Transitioning from a manual to a motorised wheelchair is a significant adjustment, and it’s essential to approach the learning process with patience and grace. Remember that mastering new skills takes time, and it’s perfectly normal to face moments of frustration or uncertainty.
Allow yourself the space to practice and build confidence at your own pace. Celebrate small milestones and remind yourself that persistence is key. With consistent effort and a positive mindset, you’ll soon feel comfortable and capable of operating your motorised wheelchair, making the most of its features to enhance your mobility and independence.
Conclusion
Mastering the safe use of a motorised wheelchair is not just about avoiding accidents—it’s about embracing a new level of freedom and independence. Thus, keep the tips discussed above in mind as they serve as the stepping stones on your journey toward empowered mobility.
At Falcon Mobility (rebranding to ELFIGO), we not only provide a wide range of state-of-the-art electric wheelchairs but also essential add-ons like rear-view mirrors and scooter covers to ensure your journeys are safe and comfortable. Browse our website to learn more about our products and make your mobility experience safer than ever.