Are you having problems with your mobility? Is someone in the family struggling to move because of a debilitating injury? It is an unfortunate fact that 1 out of 4 American adults is living with a disability. The reasons behind the disability vary. Some sustain injuries due to accidents or illnesses. Also, there are people born with birth defects that immobilize them for life. Thankfully, there are products like wheelchairs to help address the mobility challenges. However, some people require more features than a standard wheelchair offers. Some people may need a wheelchair with seat lift. With so many options available in Raleigh today, how do you pick the right one for you or your loved ones? Below is our comprehensive guide on a seat lift chair.

A Wheelchair with Seat Lift: The Different Types

Before buying a wheelchair with seat lift, you need to learn about the different options. Incidentally, there are different types of power wheelchairs with seat lift features. Let’s break them down one by one. Firstly, there is the single-post elevating seat. This mechanism is one of the most common among elevating wheelchairs. It comes with a post with a threaded rod inside. It also comes with an electric motor that turns the rod. As the motor turns the rod, it pushes the seat of the wheelchair up. When the thread rotates the other direction, the seat will then move lower and back to its original position. The good thing about this type of elevated wheelchair is flexibility. You can control the height of the seat by stopping the elevation anytime you wish. Another type of wheelchair with lift seat features a scissor mechanism. Like the first type, it features a threaded rod mechanism. It also comes with a single post design. However, the difference lies in the function of the rod. In this system, the rod manipulates a scissor frame that you find under the seat. Compared to a single-post mechanism, a scissor mechanism provides better support for the seat frame. If a single-post mechanism supports only the center of the seat frame, a scissor mechanism supports all four corners of the seat. In turn, the wheelchair can accommodate heavier users.

The Key Elements

It is also important to note that other key elements contribute to the functionality of the seat lift wheelchair. Firstly, there is the seat frame, which accommodates the actual seat. Some wheelchairs feature adjustable seat frames that you can also customize. Another integral element is the turning radius. This pertains to the amount of free space necessary for the wheelchair to turn and make a complete circle. The measurement of a turning radius is half of the total circle’s diameter. If you’re looking to use the wheelchair indoors most of the time, find one that comes with a smaller turning radius. This gives the wheelchair more maneuverability indoors. Also, the turning radius differs depending on the type of wheel drive. Wheelchairs with rear-wheel drive need at least a 40” radius. Meanwhile, a wheelchair with mid-wheel drive power only needs anywhere between 20” and 30” in radius. Another important element to consider is the wheels. Generally, the drive wheels measure 12” to 14” in diameter. As for the width, they should measure anywhere between 2” and 4”. As for the wheelchairs’ weight capacity, powerbase chairs can accommodate patients with maximum weights of up to 300lbs. Some chairs can even seat people as heavy as 500lbs. Last but not least is the element of safety. If you drive your wheelchair while in an elevated position, the chair becomes less stable. Thus, some wheelchairs feature an automatic shutdown feature.

The Key Benefits

When it comes to the key benefits of a wheelchair with seat lift, there are many. For starters, you will experience less pain when moving from your bed to a chair or into the toilet. Keep in mind that accidents can happen when people lift patients and transfer them from bed to chair. With a seat lift wheelchair, you can eliminate this risk significantly. The same thing goes if you’re moving from the wheelchair to a lower surface. The seat lift chair helps you do these things without needing any help from another person. Hence, the seat lift wheelchair can boost your level of independence. You can function with more ease without relying heavily on others. With a simple push of a button, you can lift your seat if you need to reach for something above you. This is helpful, especially if you’re reaching something from the bookshelf. You will also find this feature useful if you’re reaching for items on the grocery shelves. Also, the seat can increase your self-confidence. If you wish to be on eye-level with someone you’re talking to, you can adjust the height of your chair in seconds. In turn, it yields a positive impact on your interactions and general social skills.

Key Considerations Before Buying One

Last but not least, there are important factors to consider when buying a wheelchair with lift seat. Firstly, you need to consider the size and portability. Do you need a wheelchair that you can easily carry outside for travel? On the other hand, do you want something full-size, on the sturdier side of the spectrum? Next, consider the environment where you will use the wheelchair most of the time. Will you use it more frequently indoors or outdoors? Also, you need to consider the seating and positioning of the wheelchair. This depends on your current health requirements and condition. If you want something that doesn’t change the angle of your lower body when moving, go for a chair with tilt-in-space. If need to change the degree of your back’s position, go for a reclining one. Additionally, you need to find one that comes with a suitable controller. A good power wheelchair with seat lift comes with a joystick and keypad.

Get a Quality Wheelchair with Lift Seat in Raleigh Today

By investing in a wheelchair with seat lift, you will have an easier time moving from one spot to another. You will also reduce the risk of accidents and increase the things you can do. However, you must first find a provider you can trust. We invite you to check our extensive lineup of power wheelchairs. Connect with us and tell us more about your needs. Let’s find you the perfect wheelchair that best suits your requirements.