Power Wheelchair Transfers... Solutions That Work. Getting Your Wheels Behind the Wheel!
Power Wheelchair Transfers can be a bear! You've noticed? Those TV ads look good! A nice power chair to gain your independence and then wham, you can't take it with you in the car! Yes you can! Besides the little guys that come apart in 3 or 4 pieces (and do fit nicely in your trunk), you're not taking those battery powered wheels with the gas powered one unless you've got the right equipment. The equipment is straight forward... A van with a lift on it works well but is very costly. And if you are alone and thinking that this will solve the transport problem. Remember that after you get into the van IN your power chair, someone needs to close the door (if it doesn't close by itself) and YOU need to get to the drivers seat if you are driving. Most often I see someone else driving the van and transporting the patient still in the secured chair. But, it's just something to think about. Again, a big expense! On the lighter note (in this economy!) a power chair rack is penny's compared to a power chair accessible van. And even lighter than that (pocketbook wise), is the folded wheelchair ramp that allows your chair to be driven into your truck bed or into your van. Check van height clearance though... spatial orientation is not everyone's strength!
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