Electric Wheelchairs vs. Power Wheelchairs: What’s in a Name?
Have you ever heard someone say “electric wheelchair” and then another person call it a “power wheelchair”? It might make you wonder: Are they the same thing? Or is there some hidden difference between the two? Let’s take a closer look at these two terms and figure out what’s really going on.
Two Names, One Purpose
First things first: both “electric wheelchair” and “power wheelchair” are talking about the same basic concept. These are wheelchairs that have a motor and are powered by electricity. Instead of pushing the wheels by hand, the user can use a joystick or buttons to move around. They’re awesome for giving people more independence and freedom to travel farther than they could in a manual wheelchair.
But why do we have two names for them?
Electric Wheelchair: Simple and Straightforward
The term “electric wheelchair” is pretty easy to understand. It tells you exactly what it is: a wheelchair that uses electricity. This term is common in everyday conversation because it’s straightforward and easy to say. If you’re explaining this to someone who’s not super familiar with wheelchairs, they’ll probably understand “electric wheelchair” right away.
Power Wheelchair: A Bit More Technical
On the other hand, “power wheelchair” is a term you’ll hear more often in the medical or assistive technology world. It focuses on the fact that the wheelchair is motorized and has some extra features. For example, power wheelchairs often have programmable settings, different seat adjustments, and even fancy things like the ability to tilt or recline. The word “power” highlights the advanced capabilities these chairs can have, beyond just being electric.
Does One Sound Cooler?
Okay, let’s be real. If you’re trying to impress someone, doesn’t “power wheelchair” sound cooler? It makes you think of something strong and high-tech, like a superhero gadget. “Electric wheelchair” sounds practical, but it doesn’t have the same pizzazz.
Which One Should You Use?
So, when should you use “electric wheelchair” and when should you use “power wheelchair”? Here’s a quick guide:
- Use electric wheelchair if you’re talking to someone casually or just describing what it is.
- Use power wheelchair if you’re in a medical setting or talking about advanced features.
Fun Fact
Did you know that power wheelchairs can come with some incredible features? Some models can climb small curbs, drive on rough terrain, or even elevate the seat to help users reach high shelves. So, whether you call it electric or power, these wheelchairs are definitely game-changers for many people.
The Bottom Line
In the end, both “electric wheelchair” and “power wheelchair” get the job done when it comes to describing these life-changing devices. The difference is mostly in how technical or fancy you want to sound. So, next time someone brings it up, you’ll know exactly what to say—and maybe even impress them with your new knowledge!
For information on Medicare coverage criteria for power wheelchairs click here.
To learn more about how to obtain a power wheelchair click here.
