Life should be lived to the fullest, and a power assist device can help make that more achievable for many manual wheelchair users. Whether you’re sightseeing on vacation or running your day-to-day errands, power assist can give you a little bit of an extra push when you need it most. While power assist isn’t new, thanks to advancements in technology and design, more options are currently available than ever before. 

Overview

In the simplest terms, power assist provides manual wheelchair users with power when they need it. Power assist: 

• Requires less force to propel, reducing the number of pushes needed to go the same distance;
• Makes it easier to propel over difficult terrains such as grass, gravel, carpet, curb cuts, ramps and inclines;
• Allows users to do more while using less energy, which helps fight fatigue and overuse injuries, such as carpal tunnel and rotator cuff problems. “Power assist helps give people the ability to do more,” said Mike Salvi, director of mobility and seating at Invacare. “But it also helps prevent pain, fatigue and injury. Power assist can help reduce the risk of upper extremity injury due to decreased burden and helps users maintain more neutral joint positions.” 

Benefits to users include:

• Greater connectivity: Bluetooth gives you the ability to control speed and customizable settings with an app. It’s now possible to control some products without being in the chair, making it easy to store when not being used.  
• Safety: Many products offer increased speed to cross busy streets or assisted braking when going downhill, helping to make daily life a little more safe. 
• Improved drivability and transportability: Thanks to continued innovations, products continue to get lighter and easier to remove for travel, while engines are becoming stronger and more efficient, helping you get where you’re going with a little less hassle. 

Types

Manual wheelchair users have two main options when it comes to power assist: power assist wheels or an add-on unit. In deciding between the two, experts suggest taking stock of your goals and finding the right combination of options that fit your lifestyle.

For example, the Invacare SMOOV one is an innovative electric drive that you can easily dock on to and off your wheelchair whenever you need some extra power. This modern and sporty power unit significantly increases the driver’s mobility and range. Operating the SMOOV is easy thanks to an ergonomic control unit that mounts to just about anywhere on the chair. The SMOOV one and the control unit can both be charged using the included magnetic charging cable.  Customize your driving experiences using the SMOOV one app.

There's also the Permobil SmartDrive MX2+ which gives you freedom to do more. Pushing a manual wheelchair can put stress on the upper body and lead to serious issues in the future. SmartDrive was created with manual wheelchair users in mind. The mounting location, the ergonomic handle, the weight, and the OmniWheel were all designed to create a seamless power assist experience. The SmartDrive gives you the freedom to do more. It moves with you and it’s so lightweight, you don’t even know it’s there.  It is compatible with your active lifestyle.

You and your care team should consider functional and comfort levels as well as safety when making decisions about which product might work best. If you qualify, power assist may be covered by insurance, whether you’re a new or existing user. Private pay options are also available. If you have questions, consult your doctor, therapist or National Seating & Mobility.