Announcement

Collapse
No announcement yet.

Thinking of buying a power wheelchair

Collapse
X
 
  • Filter
  • Time
  • Show
Clear All
new posts

    Thinking of buying a power wheelchair

    It has come to the time in my MS journey that I think a power wheelchair is in my near future. My first thoughts are that I'm "throwing in the towel" in that I don't like that fact that it's come to this point, but I'm trying to convince myself that it's in my best interest.

    I've been having a really hard time walking with my rollator walker, not to mention falling too many times inside my home using it. It's become a safety issue as well as an energy saver. Yet, I still struggle with this huge decision.

    For those who use a power chair, what kind/brand do you recommend and why?
    What features do you look for and what to avoid.
    And what about the cost? I heard that Medicare will cover part of the cost, but how does that work?

    Thanks for any input, thoughts and recommendations!
    1st sx '89 Dx '99 w/RRMS - SP since 2010
    Administrator Message Boards/Moderator

    #2
    Definitely sounds like it's time, Seasha. Once you finally get one, you'll wonder why you waited so long!

    My MS Specialist sent me for evaluation before I had even thought about it. My first powerchair was a Pride Jazzy model recommended by the DME supplier. I was able to try it out when I in for my appointment.

    It had midwheel drive and "turned on a dime." It also had a captain's chair. I was very happy with it. (The seat also came off the base, so we could travel with it. But it was heavy, so good thing my husband could lift it. I was sad it was discontinued when mine finally died.)

    Hopefully the following links will also help answer your questions.

    https://www.retirementliving.com/wil...ric-wheelchair

    https://www.pridemobility.com/medica...heelchairs.asp

    They will also try to "look ahead" for one that will meet your needs for the next five years, because that's when you'll be eligible for a new one.

    https://www.medicareinteractive.org/...is%20worn,you% 20began%20using%20the%20equipment.

    Here's a link for different Jazzy models ~
    https://www.pridemobility.com/jazzy-...%20Power%20Cha ir,Chair%20to%20suit%20anyone's%20needs.

    Good luck!
    Kimba

    “When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” ― Max Planck

    Comment


      #3
      Thanks for your imput, Kimba. I will check out those helpful links for sure!
      1st sx '89 Dx '99 w/RRMS - SP since 2010
      Administrator Message Boards/Moderator

      Comment


        #4
        Before I took the plunge with Medicare and the big chair, I used a Drive Go Chair, which fit in my SUV using a hoist installed in the cargo area. It’s good as long as you transfer to a chair for prolonged sitting.

        Medicare allows one power chair every 5-7 years, so think ahead about what features you might need over those years. I am fortunate to live near the Shepherd Center in Atlanta and was able to take advantage of their wheelchair seating clinic. The PT told me to stop using my mobility as an exercise program. (Ouch)

        Because my MS is progressing, a “rehab chair” is what I got. It’s a Quantum Edge Q6 that reclines, tilts, elevates, and has power leg rests. Medicare paid 80% of medically necessary features. ( not the elevating or legs). It weighs 560 lbs and requires a ramp van.

        Comment


          #5
          Being a stubborn Irishman I pushed myself way beyond the time when I should have used a power chair. I fell so much that the paramedics knew me on a first name basis. By waiting so long I was also causing problems with the alignment of my spine. Muscles and my disks suffered. By the time I received my custom fit Rye back it took months of adjustments to finally get my back straight. I have been using my Rye back a RoHo seat for years now and I am very happy with that combination.

          Comment


            #6
            Thanks, rich, for the input! I see that a RoHo seat would be important for comfort!

            Right now I'm looking at a The LiteRider Envy that breaks down to fit in the car. It's not as expensive as some others either.
            1st sx '89 Dx '99 w/RRMS - SP since 2010
            Administrator Message Boards/Moderator

            Comment


              #7
              I too waited to long to get a power wheelchair. I live in Pittsburgh and my neurologist referred me to a mobility speciality place that evaluates all kinds of mobility problems from in the home to driving aids.

              I had a consult with a physical therapist and a person from a company called NUMotion they affiliated with. After evaluation they came to my home with a sample wheelchair they thought was best for me to use. It was a Quantum edge 3.0 Medicare and my supplement paid for all but they suggested I get the " I level" part that raised the seat up 12 inches that was $1,000 that was not covered. I did get that function and glad I did!

              My home is big and wide enough to use the chair and can go outside in nice weather. We have no steps into our house just low thresholds in the front door and garage that the chair can go over. I like everything about the chair but the few times it needed repaired it took 2-3 weeks for a tech to come to the home. Luckily I was able to use the chair while waiting but I would check on the repair times with the vendor you get the chair from. Good luck and that is my 2 cents!

              Comment


                #8
                Hi Seasha I actually was just wondering if you were still around just before getting to your post. I understand completely what you are talking about. My MS has been a roller coaster for years but now it's gotten to a slower and more problematic decline. So if you think it's time I commend you. Also I wanted to ask you if you had tried the arm attachments for your walker? It offers you more stability for us legs especially as you put it you fall a lot. They attach to each side of your walker and have hand grips for you to hold onto. Anyways that's my 2 cents for you. Take care.

                Comment

                Working...
                X