How to Control Wheelchair Power

Power wheelchairs provide independent mobility to people who would otherwise have to depend others. There are many different models designed to address the functional limitations of the individual. Power wheelchairs may swivel 360 degrees or be limited to turning right/left and forward/back. As a result, there are different controls for each type. Power wheelchairs typically are controlled by the hand with the use of a joystick. For people who cannot use their hands, there are head controls and "straw" controls (operated by inhaling and exhaling into a straw to change directions).

Instructions

• 1

  Review the owner's manual for instructions on using your chair's joystick. Practice turning right and left and moving forward and back.

• 2

  Add stationary obstacles. Practice maneuvering through doorways and around furniture.

• 3

  Add moving obstacles. Maneuver around family members and pets. Practice in more crowded areas. This prepares you to use your wheelchair in grocery stores and shopping malls.

• 4

  Learn to control speed. Power wheelchairs usually have a speed knob or slide as part of the joystick. Adjust speed based on your environment. In a mall, set speed close to the pace of people walking around you. When maneuvering the chair outdoors, increase speed temporarily when crossing a street. Set the maximum speed appropriately for the abilities of the wheelchair-user.