To California Chief - was wheelchairs in Seattle

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Me - 21 Jun 2007 04:42 GMT

Me" wrote via Supernews, http://www.supernews.com:

> I use a walker and will need a power operated wheelchair; I might be able
> to hold out for the rest of the year.
> My hands are getting weaker and I don't know how well I'll be able to
> turn the thing. Even if it has handle bars, I'll still need to get a

model that

> fits the house.
>
> Any ideas, suggestions...?

There is a member at church who has a wheelchair that is totally operable by
the flick of fingers on 2 joystick-like controls, exactly like you see on
video games. Its turns and speed - everything - are controlled by those 2
controls.

... Accuracy is our watchword -- we NEVER make misteaks!

------------
Could you get me the name, manufacturer, etc, please? It's not just my
hands that are weak; my fingers are dead. I can't snap them and they have
no "pinch." I should have said that in the first post

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california_chief - 21 Jun 2007 08:49 GMT

>> There is a member at church who has a wheelchair that is totally operable

>> the flick of fingers on 2 joystick-like controls,

> Could you get me the name, manufacturer, etc, please?

It will be a couple weeks before I can do that. Mary left this morning
(Wednesday) for Mexico City for the wedding of a (former) co-worker's
daughter. She will be gone for 8-10 days -- and I do not drive.

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Paul T. Holland - 22 Jun 2007 01:16 GMT

give me a shout via email and i'll be happy to fill you in on various
'types' and 'styles' of control devices for electric wheelchairs.

you see, the thing is, there isn't 'one' type, but rather many diff.
ones depending upon the physical capability of the individual user.

also-

depending on your insurnace [your doc has to issue an order for this],
you may be eligible for a 'seating and function' clinic thru a rehab
center or hosp. clinic.

during the session, the therapist will go over your actual positioning
needs and also your hand, arm function and dexterity.

the results of such a work up will often mean that you end up being
qualified for an 'upgrade' - but that is a medical decision, not a
comsumer choice if insurance is to pick up the tab.

if your finances permit, you can simply use a vendor company that has an
'equipment technologist' on staff - they can perform the same review
with you -= only you pick up the tab.

you mention being able to 'hold out' - don't...

while not particularly complicated, it does take time to go thru
doc/vendor/insurnace to end up taking delivery of your chair. so you
want to start the process well in advance.

be well

paul

> Me" wrote via Supernews, http://www.supernews.com:
>
[quoted text clipped - 18 lines]
> hands that are weak; my fingers are dead. I can't snap them and they have
> no "pinch." I should have said that in the first post

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