The best electric wheelchairs can significantly enhance your mobility, offering new levels of freedom and independence. Today's electric wheelchairs have evolved to offer superior access and affordability, catering to suit a wide range of people.
"A power wheelchair can minimize a person's risk for falls, can assist in energy conservation and can preserve shoulder integrity should there be issues with strength or pathology such as rotator cuff injury," says Jillian Cacopardo, clinical coordinator for Connecticut-based Gaylord Specialty Healthcare's Wheelchair Clinic.
Electric wheelchairs offer several advantages over traditional models. Powered by electricity instead of physical effort, they're suitable for many people, even if muscle strength is an issue. They're also far more nippy than manual wheelchairs, providing a smoother and quicker way to handle daily activities and errands.
Since buying an electric wheelchair is a considerable investment, we consulted with senior care and wheelchair professionals to understand important features and safety factors. This, together with our in-depth research, helped us identify the best electric wheelchairs for 2024.
Consider the following types of electric wheelchairs depending on your needs:
Center-wheel drive: These chairs are highly maneuverable, especially helpful in tight spaces and narrow hallways.
Rear-wheel drive: Designed for greater speed and stability, these wheelchairs offer superior control and traction on uneven surfaces and inclines. You'll enjoy higher top speeds as well, making it ideal for covering longer distances.
Front-wheel drive: An excellent choice for outdoor use, capable of cruising over various terrains, including grass, dirt, and gravel. These chairs provide a smoother experience when ascending or descending slopes.
Standing or elevated electric wheelchairs: These chairs adjust the seat height or even stand upright, making it easier to reach higher objects and engage with others at eye level. Benefits also include reduced pressure sores, improved range of motion and better circulation.
Folding electric wheelchairs: Designed to be easily collapsible for travel via car, bus, or airplane. These lightweight models have folding frames for portability while maintaining similar features and capabilities to non-folding models.
Heavy-duty electric wheelchairs: Also called bariatric wheelchairs, these chairs have a higher weight capacity of over 300 pounds, reinforced frames and wider seats to accommodate a wide range of body types.
There are a lot of elements to consider while shopping for an electric wheelchair, including your current and future needs.
"Think about where you'll use the wheelchair most," Norman advises. "Consider your motives for getting an electric wheelchair in the first place: People who can walk should walk as much as possible to preserve that function, but a power-operative device can certainly make it easier to do things like grocery shopping around a large store."
Here are specific factors to consider before purchasing:
User's weight and height: Each electric wheelchair has a specified weight capacity, and it's crucial to choose one that comfortably supports your weight along with the items you hope to tote with you on your chair, like groceries or an oxygen tank.
Seat width and depth: A seat that fits correctly is essential for comfort and proper circulation. Measure your hip width while seated and choose a seat size that offers enough room for correct body alignment without being too wide or too narrow.
Lifestyle and needs: Consider your primary usage — whether indoors or outdoors, travel frequency, and terrain. For indoor use, opt for a wheelchair with a tight turning radius, like center-wheel drive models, for easy maneuverability. If you spend more time outdoors, front-wheel and rear-wheel drive models offer better traction and stability. These models handle slopes and rough paths more effectively.
Power and range: An electric wheelchair's range typically depends on the battery. Models with standard batteries usually travel between 7 and 20 miles per charge. Check the manufacturer's specifications for battery life, especially if you anticipate using your wheelchair for full-day activities or have limited charging capabilities during travel. The power of the motor also impacts your wheelchair's performance. Higher-powered motors provide more torque for climbing inclines and traversing rough surfaces, but they can also drain the battery more quickly. "Factors such as your body weight, how hilly of an area you're in and how often you use the wheelchair affect how much motor power is necessary," says Norman. "Those who are heavier or will be using the chair in hilly or rough terrain might need more power."
Maneuverability: A wheelchair's turning radius determines how efficiently it can navigate corners and other restricted environments. Smaller numbers usually indicate better maneuverability. For example, a turning radius of 20 inches is considered tight and more suitable for indoor use, while a radius of 30 inches or more is better for outdoor or open spaces.
Comfort and support: A properly fitted chair alleviates pressure points and prevents injuries caused by poor posture. Adequate seat padding is important for long periods of sitting, and adjustable armrests allow you to position your arms comfortably. Some models also come with supportive headrests, reclining backrests and leg rests to increase overall comfort. If you use your electric wheelchair only for short periods, a less padded chair is likely just fine. However, if you use it for full-day activities, the seat should be well-padded and have good ergonomic support. Some chairs will allow you to customize the seat style or purchase extra cushioning as needed.
Portability: Consider the wheelchair's weight and folding capabilities, especially if you need to transport it frequently. Lightweight models, typically between 45 and 60 pounds, are easier to lift into cars. Foldable designs allow for quick collapse to fit into car trunks or smaller storage spaces. Some models feature one-step folding mechanisms for effortless management.
Cost and warranty: Entry-level electric wheelchairs start at around $800, while high-end models can cost upwards of $15,000. The price typically reflects the number of features, materials used and weight capacity. Additionally, it's important to check the warranty terms and coverage before purchasing. Most electric wheelchairs come with some kind of protection or warranty that can save you from unexpected expenses in case of defects or malfunctions. Some manufacturers offer extended warranties at an extra cost.
Additional features: There are a range of features worth considering, including headlights and taillights for improved visibility and safety. Some chairs have USB charging ports, dual controls and storage compartments like baskets and zipper pouches, which can be helpful for toting gear around. Another factor worth considering is power-elevating seats, which allow you to adjust the chair's height to reach items or interact with people at different levels. Power tilt and recline features can provide more comfort and reduce pressure points throughout the day. If you prefer to customize your accessories, check to see whether the manufacturer offers add-ons such as cup holders, oxygen tank holders or tray tables.
To find the best electric wheelchairs, we analyzed dozens of options based on factors including ease of use, durability, comfort and accessibility features. We also considered expert opinions from health care professionals, including senior living and mobility experts, as well as user reviews and feedback.
The insights from our research and consultations with experts helped us narrow down our list to the top-performing electric wheelchairs for various needs, including portability, power, stability and customization. We prioritized options that provide a comfortable, safe riding experience while offering users maximum independence.
There's a wide range. "Electric wheelchair prices can vary a lot depending on their features and brand," says Norman. These range from about $800 to over $15,000, "with basic models with standard features starting around $2,000," Norman says. Consider multiple factors when budgeting for an electric wheelchair, including up-front costs, potential maintenance costs and insurance coverage.
Every wheelchair is different, but there is a general range you can expect. "The general life of an electric wheelchair battery is about one to two years, depending on its use and maintenance," says Sean Marchese, a registered nurse with over 20 years of patient care experience at the Mesothelioma Center in Orlando. "A fully charged one will run for 8 to 20 miles per day, depending on the terrain covered and also the weight of the user."
Insurance coverage varies. "Most private plans will pay for an electric wheelchair if your doctor orders one, but it must most likely be preauthorized," Marchese says.
Marchese adds that Medicare may cover up to 80% of the cost of power-driven devices such as scooters and power wheelchairs when these are medically necessary in the beneficiary's home as durable medical equipment (DME). However, you must meet the required conditions.
While many Medicaid plans cover electric wheelchairs when medically necessary, coverage varies by state. "You'll want to review specific guidelines in your state and consult with a Medicaid representative to work out policy details," says Marchese.
It varies depending on model and brand, but most electric wheelchairs support up to 250 or 300 pounds. However, models with higher weight capacities are available. "Heavy-duty or bariatric electric scooters will support a weight of 450 to 600 pounds," says Marchese. Make sure to read the fine print to ensure your wheelchair will suit your needs.
Yes, Cacopardo says you can travel by plane with an electric wheelchair. "The batteries nowadays are sealed, which does allow for travel by plane," she says. "The equipment will be placed in the cargo area of the plane." When booking a flight, it's a good idea to give the airline as much notice as possible so it can arrange for appropriate storage. There also may be an option to select a specific wheelchair-friendly seat or request assistance at the airport.
Jillian Cacopardo, MPT, ATP/SMS, clinical coordinator for Gaylord Specialty Healthcare's Wheelchair Clinic, Portland, CT
Sean Marchese, MS, RN, registered nurse with the Mesothelioma Center at Asbestos.com, Orlando, FL
Christopher Norman, MSN, APRN, APHN-BC, GNP-BC, geriatric nurse practitioner with the National Council on Aging, Arlington, VA
