Several mobility aids are widely available for physically handicapped individuals. These may vary from conventional walkers to much sophisticated electric powered wheelchairs who use a joystick or manual one. The process of choosing the right wheelchair can be especially difficult, because the types of options available are as varied as the types of people in the world and their various lifestyles.

Electric powered wheelchairs run on rechargeable batteries. They can run as far as 15 miles or more before requiring battery recharging. They can accommodate a weight of 500 pounds, or greater. Lastly, the controls for speed and acceleration are similar to mobility scooter.

In terms of cost, electric wheelchairs are considered as the most expensive among all mobility vehicles. The advanced power, speed, and features of such wheelchairs can cost as much as, or even exceed, the price of average automobiles. The price of electric wheelchairs can be as much as $5,000. On the other hand, manual wheelchairs are more cost-effective.

Electric wheelchairs are very heavy and are not foldable primarily because of the sturdy materials that they are made of. Such properties make these types of wheelchairs hard to keep or transport.

The seats, armrests, and footrests of electric wheelchairs can be accordingly angled and adjusted for comfort.

A manual wheel chair requires you to use your own muscles to go forward. So if you have decent to good upper body strength, these can be right choice for you. You can get manual wheel chairs that are lightweight.

Manual wheel chair are more affordable, great for temporary/short term use, may maintain upper body strength and endurance, as it is a self-propelled wheel chair requiring upper body ability, most common models are lightweight and fairly easy to transport, may require less maintenance.

They have some disadvantages. Here are some of them. If you lack upper body strength or ability, and the ability to self-propel yourself throughout the day, on a daily basis – manually, then this may not be the wheel chair for you. It is harder to get around than in an electric wheel chair. You lose the luxury of "automatic" mobility the electric wheel chair offers. Depending upon your condition, you may require a helper to push you around if you own a manual wheel chair.

When talking to a salesman at mobility center, it’s important to let him know your physical condition. What you will and will not be capable of. With that information, he or she can better help you pick out the model and brand perfect for you.

This is surely a great help for affected individuals to make a wise and informed decision on which one to purchase. Either of them will tremendously aid a mobility impaired individual to become more self-reliant and to move around better. But in the end, your decision whether to buy an electric wheelchair or manual one will greatly depend on your personal needs.

When possible, it is a very good idea to go through the selection process with a qualified physiotherapist or occupational therapist who knows what your daily routine and lifestyle look like so that they can help you get the chair that properly suits your needs.

Here are some more tips for you when buying a wheelchair:

Be sure you're properly seated. If your wheelchair doesn't fit you, you may develop back pains or sores. Ask about back height, seating angle, weight, and cushion brand.

Borrow a chair for a few days. Not sure which wheelchair is right for you? Ask for a demo wheelchair or a loaner.

Remember you'll need service and repair. Make sure your mobility center offers service by technicians who are trained and certified in the wheelchair brand you prefer. Also ask that they have parts on hand, so you don't have to wait long for repairs.