Powerchair Checklist

You've had your nightstand covered in brochures for weeks. You've surfed the web, talked to dozens of users, and read every article on WheelchairJunkie.com. And, most importantly, you've test-driven, test driven, test driven your prospective powerchairs. Now you're ready to sit down with your provider next Tuesday, and order up your new powerchair.

If you're a guy whom uses a powerchair, and you're lucky, your rehab specialist will be that 26-year old, perky blonde. If you're a woman whom uses a powerchair, and you're lucky, your rehab specialist will be that muscular, tall, tanned gentleman in the double-breasted suit. In either case, ordering a new powerchair can be a tantalizing experience.

But, during your meeting, there will be a myriad of choices on the powerchair order form, ones that may not be best addressed on the spot (especially if you're dizzied by the astounding figure of your rehab specialists). So, by running down a Powerchair Ordering Checklist before you meet, you can spend less time worrying about whether you've ordered the correct specifications, and spend more time winking at you're rehab specialist, interjecting such flirtatious comments as, "I love the way you hold your pen," and "What's a rehab specialist like you doing in a place like this?" (Blowing kisses works well, too.)

Every powerchair has different features and options to choose from, but, as a whole, the following checklist may provide a meaningful guide toward assuring most of your powerchair needs are meet.

1. Motor/Speed Package: Many powerchairs offer a high speed or high torque motor package - which is right for you?

2. Color: Have you seen color samples and chosen the best for you, your wardrobe, and work environment?

3. Controller: If there are different controller options, are you aware of the differences, and have you chosen the best system for your intended uses?

4. Joystick Mount: If it's your first powerchair, do you need right- or left-hand mounting? Do you need a fixed or swing-away mount?

5. Joystick Handle: There're a host of joystick handles other than the standard knob - do you need a T-handle, ball, extended stick, etc.?

6. Battery Charger: If offered, is on-board or off-board more convenient for you?

7. Batteries: If more than one battery size is available - whether due to upgrades or power seating restrictions - are you certain that the selected battery size is appropriate for your needs?

8. Drive wheels: If more than one size is available, have you determined the diameter and width that best matches your driving conditions?

9. Casters: Which size offered works best for you?

10. Tires: Do you prefer flat-free or pneumatic?

11. Legrests: Of the commonly offered swing-away, drop-in, elevating, or platform legrests, which best meet your requirements? (Footplate size and extension tube lengths are often a choice to make, as well).

12. Seating: Seating is among the most vital components of a powerchair, and should be verified with your therapist and rehab specialist. However, the three basic non-powered seating systems include sling, pan, and automotive style.

13. Specialty Seating: If you need power seating - elevating, tilt, or recline - confirm the systems appropriateness, and understand how it interfaces with the powerchair's base (seat-to-floor height or battery size may be influenced by power seating).

14. Armrests: Determine which armrest option you wish - height-adjustable, flip-back, siingle-post removable, etc.

15. Seat Cushion: Don't overlook the importance of a seat cushion, which is commonly ordered at the same time as a powerchair.

16. Accessories: From seat belts to cup holders, don't forget the ever-important accessories!

Again, this in an overview of the decisions that need addressing when ordering a powerchair - the powerchair model you are interested in may have more or less features and options.

As for a checklist toward preparing to flirt with your sexy rehab specialist, I must leave you to your own accord. However, here's the flirting fashion advice that I personally follow: