Power Wheelchairs Can be Ordered with an Array of Assistive Technology Options

For people with severe disabilities, including high level spinal cord injuries, a power wheelchair can be the portal to a life of independence and greater accessibility.  Now, more of these power wheelchairs can be ordered from the manufacturer with an array of high tech electronic features built in, including environmental controls, ventilators and communications devices. 

Easier Approvals from Insurance Companies
Not only does this provide the wheelchair user with more options, it also means insurance companies are more likely to approve the cost of the added features. Previously, power wheelchair users would have to add the electronic controls after they had purchased the chair, making it difficult to get additional funding from insurance companies for the optional electronic controls. 

Quickie Rhythm Power Wheelchair Comes with Options Installed
At a recent assistive technology symposium in conjunction with the University of Utah Hospital’s TRAILS (Therapeutic Recreation And Independent Lifestyles) program for people with spinal cord injuries, Occupational Therapists Danielle Ascher and Lance Dearden unveiled a new Quickie Rhythm power wheelchair from Sunrise Medical with optional electronic controls already installed. 

A Full Array of Communications and Environmental Controls
In addition to a ventilator, the power wheelchair came equipped with infrared and Bluetooth, using joystick, sip and puff, or head array controls. With these features, the wheelchair user would be able to operate a laptop computer, cell phone, television or other environmental electronic device, like lights and doors, in addition to powering the chair in all directions. 

An Enhanced Quality of Life
The level of independence provided by these devices cannot be overstated, making them absolute necessities for an enhanced quality of life.  The fact that they can now be ordered as “standard” equipment on many power wheelchairs is a sign that manufacturers are indeed making great progress in meeting the needs of people with severe disabilities.