Where Can I Buy a Wheelchair Near Me?

If you are looking to buy one of our Pride wheelchairs and you need assistance finding a local dealer, let us help you get in contact with one of our trusted local dealers. Our dealers are trained to guide you through the buying process and assist you with filing under Medicare, Medicaid or insurance if you qualify. Follow the steps below for our Dealer Locator to find a local Pride dealer in your area that can assist you in your wheelchair purchase.

Just follow these steps:

Visit pridemobility.com
Click on the Buy Online/Find a Dealer button at the top of the homepage
At this time, you can choose a local provider or buy online
For local providers, enter your address or ZIP code, chose Electric Wheelchairs in the second box, and hit search
You’ll see a list of mobility product providers near your ZIP code
You can adjust the mileage box to find a provider that is farther or closer to the ZIP code you entered

The dealers listed in the search results are current Pride dealers and can order your product from us. The search results for each provider include the provider name, address and phone number. Click on the provider name to find the additional Pride product lines they offer. You can also view directions and a map for added convenience.

You can choose to contact the provider yourself, or request to be contacted. If you choose to be contacted by the local provider, please click the “Contact Us” button at the top of website or on any product page for our email address: info@pridemobility.com. Please confirm in your email if you would like to be contacted by a Pride Mobility representative or if you would like us to provide your information to a local provider, so they can contact you directly.

If you cannot find a dealer local to you on our dealer locator, or have some additional questions, please give us a call at 800-522-7391, to be connected with one of our friendly call center representatives, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. EST. We have over 3,000 dealers nationwide that are ready to assist you with any inquiries you may have about Pride products.

What is a Wheelchair?

A wheelchair is a device that aids in mobility. It is typically used by people who have a medical condition and have limited mobility.

When someone thinks of a wheelchair, the first thing that might come to mind is a manual wheelchair. A wheelchair, however, is as unique as the individual is using it. There are different kinds of wheelchairs that serve people with a wide array of needs, from ambulatory wheelchair users to complex rehab wheelchair users.

Types of Wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs are the most common wheelchairs that people are familiar with. It is a chair with two large wheels on the side that resemble bicycle wheels. As the name indicates, the wheelchair user maneuvers the chair manually. There are two ways to maneuver a manual wheelchair. You can choose to propel yourself with the use of your arms or someone else can push the wheelchair via handlebars on the back of the chair.

Another type of wheelchair is a power wheelchair, also known as a motorized wheelchair or electric wheelchair. People use power wheelchairs because they are unable to use a manual wheelchair or an electric scooter. Unlike manual wheelchairs, a joystick is used to control the movement of the motorized wheelchair. Every power wheelchair has a base, which is equipped with four or more wheels that serve different purposes. Learn more about electric wheelchairs.

Complex rehab wheelchairs are individually configured wheelchair systems, which can include manual wheelchair systems, power wheelchair systems, positioning systems and seating systems. They can be equipped with additional complex rehab technology, such as a sip-and-puff device or eye gaze device to control different features of the power wheelchair. Complex rehab wheelchairs serve individuals with serious medical conditions and disabilities to meet specific and unique functional and medical needs and are prescribed by a doctor.

Types of Power Wheelchairs

Elevating power wheelchairs allow you to do daily tasks with ease by raising up the seat of the wheelchair. For example, the Jazzy Air® 2 elevates 12 inches in just 11 seconds, ensuring quick access to cabinetry and shelving. Users can drive up to 4 mph while elevated in the motorized wheelchair and experience face-to-face social engagement. Elevating wheelchairs can also make activities like transfers, brushing your teeth, toileting and cooking much easier.

Group 1 power wheelchairs are a good transitional wheelchair when switching from a manual wheelchair to a power wheelchair. These motorized wheelchairs have less turning power and less battery power than Group 2 electric wheelchairs but are good for traveling shorter distances and on smoother surfaces. An example of a Group 1 motorized wheelchair is the Jazzy® Elite ES-1.

Group 2 power wheelchairs are more durable than your typical power wheelchair. They are built to last with longer battery life, allowing you to drive further distances at increased speeds and feature captain’s style seating. These power wheelchairs are used by individuals whose medical needs can only be met with a more robust wheelchair. Some of our Group 2 electric wheelchairs include the Jazzy® Select 6, the Jazzy® 600 ES and the Jazzy® Elite HD.

Bariatric wheelchairs are heavy-duty wheelchairs are primarily used by individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more. Bariatric wheelchairs are both wider and heavier than traditional wheelchairs and accommodate more weight.

To learn more about wheelchairs, check out our articles on wheelchairs.

Cleaning Your Electric Power Wheelchair

Electric power wheelchairs are sophisticated pieces of equipment. In order to ensure that your power chair gives you trouble-free performance, it requires routine maintenance checks. While you can perform some of these checks yourself, some maintenance requires assistance from your authorized Pride Provider.

Your electric power wheelchair comes with an ABS plastic body shroud that allows it to be easily wiped clean. Use a damp cloth to clean the plastic and metal parts of the unit. You can use a mild, non-abrasive cleanser. If necessary, the power chair can be cleaned with an approved disinfectant, but not before making sure that the disinfectant is safe for use on the chair. Please avoid using any products that may scratch the surface on your power chair and keep your chair clean and free of foreign material, such as mud, dirt, hair, food, drink, etc.

To clean the vinyl seat, never use any chemicals, as they may cause the seat to become slippery or dry out and crack. Instead, use soapy water and dry the seat thoroughly.

It is also of utmost importance that you keep your controller clean and make sure to avoid knocking or bumping the joystick controller knob for electric power wheelchair.

Never hose off your power chair or place it in direct contact with water. We suggest immediately cleaning up any moisture and spills that could affect your product.

Good maintenance habits also include taking care of your batteries. Always charge your batteries fully after you are done using your power wheelchair for the day. Read more on proper charging habits for electric power wheelchairs.

Daily Power Chair Checks

Check the joystick while the controller is turned off. Make sure it is not bent or damaged and that it returns to the neutral position when you release it. Visually inspect the rubber boot around the base of the joystick for damage. Do not handle or try to repair it
Check the controller harness. Make sure that it is not frayed, cut, or has any wires exposed
Check for flat spots on your solid tires, as they could adversely affect stability
Inspect the seating system, armrests, and front riggings for loose hardware, stress points, or damage.
See your provider if you encounter a problem during any of the checks listed above

Weekly Electric Power Wheelchair Checks

Disconnect and inspect the controller harness and the charger harness from the power base, making sure there is no corrosion
Ensure that all parts of the controller system are securely fastened to your power chair. Do not overtighten any screws
Check your tires for proper inflation. Pneumatic tires should be inflated to the proper psi/bar/kPa air pressure rating indicated on each tire. If the tire does not hold air, contact your provider for replacing the tube
Check the brakes. This test should be carried out on a level surface with at least 3 feet of clearance around your electric power chair

Checking Your Brakes

Turn on the controller and turn down the speed level of your power chair
After one second, check the battery condition meter. Make sure that it remains on
Slowly push the joystick controller knob for electric power wheelchair forward until you hear the electric brakes click. Immediately release the joystick
You must be able to hear each electric brake operating within a few seconds of moving the joystick
Repeat this test three times, pushing the joystick rearward, then left, and then right

Monthly Power Chair Checks

Check the drive tire and caster wheels for wear. Replace them as necessary.
Check the caster forks for damage or fluttering which indicates the need for adjustment or replacement of bearings
Check the entire power chair for loose hardware and changes in the function or performance of the power chair
Contact your provider for any service or repairs regarding the checks listed above

Lauren Le Franc: Creating Beauty from Pain

Singer-songwriter Bob Dylan once said that behind every beautiful thing, there’s been some kind of pain. To Lauren Le Franc, pain is no stranger.

About six years ago, she lost her mobility to a rare neuro-inflammatory disorder called complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD). CRPS is characterized by its level of extreme pain, rated at 42 out of 50 on the McGill University Pain Scale.

Due to the nature of CRPS, sending pain signals to the brain, Lauren lives with symptoms of constant, intense pain in her limbs, hands, and feet, as well as changes in skin color and body temperature. The severe pain that she frequently experiences makes daily activities involving mobility, like eating and getting ready, tremendously difficult. Not to mention that even the slightest touch can worsen and intensify the pain even more, sometimes for months on end.

One day, Lauren saw a woman take her Go-Go® scooter out of her car and put it together, as she describes, “Faster than I could unfold my manual chair.” She said that the woman was so happy to tell her all about her scooter and Lauren was totally sold on it. She knew she had to buy it immediately.

“It is the single best purchase I’ve ever made,” Lauren said.

Lauren currently resides in the Bay Area in California and uses her Go-Go scooter as her primary mobility device, in addition to a manual wheelchair.

In fact, Lauren customized her scooter to reflect her personality and style. The Go-Go scooter has helped Lauren gain independence and a sense of normalcy in day-to-day life as she pursues her passions of learning, reading and creating art, her inspiration coming from within.

“Who knew a mobility device could also improve your mood?” Lauren remarked.

She lives her best, backed by what she describes as a small, but mighty, support system. Even the greatest amount of pain can’t hold her back from living life independently.

“I live with the most painful disease known to humankind, more painful than stage 4 cancer and unprepared childbirth according to the McGill Pain Index, and I still have reasons to smile every day. That sure feels like an accomplishment to me,” Lauren said.

Out of her pain comes beautiful projects to help others in similar situations. She also is an activist and an advocate in the disabled community, educating the public about CRPS/RSD.

“I also built a lovely Instagram community that helps each other when we feel lost,” Lauren said.

You can find and join Lauren’s CRPS community at @crps.unicorn on Instagram.

We’re Open and Here for You!

Pride Mobility Products and Quantum Rehab would like to remind our loyal customers that we are still open to serve you and your clients during this difficult time.

We are taking the safety of our employees into account and have made it our utmost priority, many members of our staff are working from home. This assists in limiting the exposure of our staff that is currently working on site. We are taking every precaution to ensure the safety of our family, friends, and you. During this time, you can expect:

Production – Our associates are operating within social distancing guidelines while producing the products that will fulfill orders for you and your clients.
Inside Sales – Connect with a familiar voice to assist you with your product questions.
Technical Service – Our technical support team is ready to help walk you through troubleshooting. Don’t forget to try remote troubleshooting first, you may be able to save a trip to your client’s home.
Marketing – Do you have questions on our ever-changing customer landscape? Speak with one of our marketing professionals about how you can maximize your showroom floorspace, social media campaigns and additional digital marketing avenues to maximize your advertising efforts.

Rest assured that Pride and Quantum are operational and able to support your business needs. Though many of our team members are working remotely, we are united in our dedication to serve you. We would love to hear from you! Call, email, tweet or follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

What to Do While Social Distancing

What is social distancing?

You may have had a vacation, birthday party or a family reunion planned that had to be canceled recently. There is currently a widespread pandemic of COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus.. Many individuals are practicing social distancing during this time to help prevent the spread of this virus to loved ones who may be more susceptible to the symptoms. Social distancing is an elective practice of ensuring that you are limiting your exposure to other individuals. Studies have shown that staying a minimum of six feet away from another person helps to reduce your chances of contracting the virus in conjunction with good hygiene habits.

Why social distancing is difficult?

Many of us enjoy conversing and spending time with those around us that we care about. However, as a precautionary measure, we find ourselves becoming physically distant – with good reason! Ensuring you are communicating via alternative means with friends and loved ones can help ease the distance. A few options for alternative forms of communication are phone calls, online chatting, texts, and video calls – there are even ways to watch movies online together!

Entertainment while social distancing

There are many things you can do to stay occupied while practicing social distancing:

Reading – one of the easiest things you can do is lose yourself in a great book. The benefits of reading will only compound the productive entertainment value a great literary piece can provide.
Binge a show – Now is the perfect time to get caught up on a show you have been wanting to finish or even start!
Start a blog – Channel your creative insights on a platform that you can share with others! Are you an expert on beauty products, outdoors activities, sports?
Languages – start learning a new language! This is great for both personal and professional development.
Puzzles – Crosswords, Sudoku, Jigsaw, etc. Puzzles are a great way to keep your mind active and stimulated.
Recipes – we might not all be Emeril Lagasse in the kitchen but that shouldn’t stop you from trying out a new recipe for dinner. Finding a new dish using your favorite ingredients can be a great way to pass the time.
Games – board, card, and video games are an incredibly entertaining past time. You can even play many games remotely with friends and family!
DIY – another great creative outlet is arts and crafts. you can put time into making and even possibly selling some wares.

Final Thoughts

It’s always important to try and maintain a positive mental attitude during times ofstress.. Navigating less-than-ideal situations becomes easier when you keep rationality at the forefront. Feel free to share your favorite past times with us in comments!

A Beginner’s Guide to Wheelchair Motocross

In wheelchair motocross, also known as WCMX, athletes use a wheelchair to perform tricks and stunts on skate park ramps that are adapted from skateboarding and BMX. This adrenaline-pumping sport is perfect for people who love adventure and are athletic. Each trick requires a lot of strength and stamina. The sport has picked up in popularity in recent years, especially with younger audiences. The sport is also reaching worldwide audiences through professional athletes who travel to skateparks all over to perform their stunts and tricks, including jumps, slides and flips.

What You’ll Need to Perform

When it comes to wheelchair motocross, the ramps and falls can take a toll on your mobility device. Rather than using a power wheelchair, athletes who perform stunts use a customized or specialty manual wheelchair. This chair is made up of lightweight materials, as well as a full suspension frame that protects the user’s legs, racing shocks and wheels. In addition to the full suspension frame, other safety precautions include wearing gloves and a bicycle helmet.

Important Things to Keep in Mind

This sport requires a lot of practice to build up strength, as it is one of the key factors in successfully performing stunts. As you gear up to do a trick, it is important to work on gaining momentum by pumping your arms. This can be done through distancing yourself significantly from the jump.

Another thing to keep in mind is that a significant part of wheelchair motocross is falling. It takes time to build up the strength and stamina required to perform different stunts. Both beginners and professionals fall, which is a normal part of the wheelchair motocross experience. Falling doesn’t mean you aren’t successful. It just means that you’ll have to get back up and try again.

Important Figures in Wheelchair Motocross

Aaron Fotheringham, also known by his WCMX name, “Wheelz”, is known as the Father of Wheelchair Motocross. He was diagnosed with spina bifida at birth and has been using a wheelchair since. The inspiration for wheelchair motocross started at a skatepark with his older brother, a BMXer. Aaron Fotheringham, who was eight years old at the time, was immediately interested in BMX and wanted to participate.

After much trial and error, and breaking a couple of wheelchairs at skateparks, he sent a wheelchair company a video and they decided to sponsor him. While his previous wheelchairs were heavy-weighted and couldn’t handle a beating from the park, he got a custom-made wheelchair he uses that is lightweight, made mostly out of titanium. Other modifications to his chair include the front wheels being replaced with smaller skateboard-style wheels, the back wheels made of a stronger, more durable rubber, reinforced with heavy duty spokes and the addition of a suspension system. Through performing his stunts, he hopes to break the stigma on wheelchairs, usually associated with limiting a person or other stereotypes.

Katherine Beattie, a wheelchair user with CP, was an avid athlete, participating in surfing, skateboarding and snowboarding in her youth. After surgery to lengthen her hamstrings, causing a lack of strength and balance in her legs, she started using a wheelchair, but that didn’t stop her from participating in sports. Beattie was the first female rider to do a backflip in a wheelchair. Since 2012, when she started riding, she has been joined by other women in WCMX that perform around the country.

COVID-19 update: Open for business

Dear Pride and Quantum customers,

We have been contacting you throughout the week regarding how we continue to safeguard against COVID-19. The health and safety of our customers and employees remains our top priority.

Pride is re-examining our procedures on a day-to-day basis during this time. Yesterday, Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf gave medical equipment and supplies manufacturers the green light to remain open and we have decided to do so. We are continuing to take, fulfill and ship orders. We feel it is important that we remain open to continue providing critical products and parts for the people who need them to stay in their homes.

Effective today, we have implemented a business continuity plan surrounding COVID-19 to help keep our people safe. Part of the plan sets up limited exposure work zone areas within all our facilities, including Duryea, Exeter, Las Vegas, Mississippi, Florida, and our international subsidiaries. Each building has been sectioned off into zones to help increase social distancing efforts. Each employee will stay in his or her assigned zone.

As previously communicated, many employees are working from home. Thirty-two percent of Pride/Quantum U.S. employees are working from home, and 46 percent of our Pennsylvania employees are working from home.

In addition, employees who are not feeling well are staying home, we are enforcing social distancing, practicing proper handwashing and have increased the intensity of cleaning. Travel, visitors and in-person meetings are banned. Disinfectant is sprayed each night in Production, Parts Shipping, Quantum Fabrication and Cushion Assembly.

We will continue to update you throughout the fight against COVID-19. Stay safe.

Regards,

Scott Meuser, CEO

Finding the Right Wheelchair Ramp

If you, a loved one, a family member or friend have mobility challenges and are curious about the cost, time and materials for a ramp, look no further.

Here are a few pointers you should know before purchasing or building a wheelchair access ramp for safety and independence at home.

There are several types of ramps that fit within these three categories: portable, semi-permanent, and permanent.

SUITCASE RAMP

This type of ramp is extremely portable and can be transported easily. Suitcase ramps can support up to about 800 pounds and are on average two tosix feet long. Typically, this particular type of ramp can be placed over small steps for ease of access. Suitcase ramps are not compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

FOLDING RAMP

Folding ramps are either bi-fold or trifold.The folding ramp does not use handrails and should only be used for wheelchair-accessible vans or placed over small stairs. It is for portable use only and is not ADA compliant.

THRESHOLD RAMP

Lightweight in nature and made from rubber or metal, the threshold ramp is typically a style of ramp which butts up against the lip of a door threshold or a curb. Most threshold ramps are ½ to six inches in height and extremely helpful in a pinch. Threshold ramps are cost-effective solutions for wheelchair, walker or scooter users.

MODULAR RAMPS

This ramp offers a more permanent fixture without a building permit. The Modular ramp can be built, taken down and reassembled in a different location as many times as needed. The material for these ramps is typically aluminum or other materials that are rust or warp proof especially made for outdoor use. Modular ramps are a very cost-effective ramp option.

TELESCOPING RAMP

Typically, a telescoping ramp consists of two separate panels, less than 12 inches in width. The panels can quickly be extended, retracted, adjusted, and realigned to fit any accessibility need, whether getting up small steps or into an accessible van. This ramp is perfect for mobility scooters.

PERMANENT RAMPS

Permanent ramps are made from concrete or wood. One important item to know is this type of ramp will require a building permit, unlike most of the modular ramps mentioned above. A permanent ramp is typically considered over modular ramps for aesthetics and longevity.

Check with your Medicare policy to see if your wheelchair ramp falls under their policy for durable medical equipment. Most policies require a wheelchair ramp to be medically necessary and prescribed by a licensed physician.