Written by Susan Griffitts, MSN, RN, FCN
Many wheelchair users have difficulty operating manual wheelchairs for extended periods of time. It puts strain on your arms, back, muscles, and joints. Whether it’s from reaching overhead, transferring, or maneuvering around the house, a manual wheelchair can be physically tiresome.
Power assist devices have an ergonomic design and bring the convenience of electric power propulsion to your manual wheelchair for easier maneuverability. Approximately 71% of manual wheelchair users report shoulder pain within their lifetimes. So, why not try a power assist device for your wheelchair?
 | 1) Smart Drive MX2+ Wheelchair Power Assist View Product |
A power assist device is a motorized accessory that can be coupled to a manual wheelchair. It allows a wheelchair user to propel without spending much energy. Additionally, some power assist devices can help wheelchair users overcome physical barriers, like hopping over sidewalk curbs.
The motor in the power assist device helps to move the wheelchair without the user having to push. A power assist device transforms a manual wheelchair into a powered wheelchair. Having a power wheelchair can be immensely beneficial, as they are known to have a positive effect on health, occupation, and quality of life.
Any manual wheelchair user seeking to expand their travel capabilities and distance traveled. If you want to avoid muscle strain or are exhausted from operating a manual wheelchair, then a power assist wheelchair device is the right choice for you.
Yes! A power assist device transforms a manual wheelchair into a powered wheelchair. The device’s motor offers the speed and fluid mobility of the power wheelchair while preserving the lightweight, maneuverability, portability, and exercise potential of their manual ride, giving users the best of both worlds!
The mounting style is how the power assist device is coupled to the manual wheelchair. There are several different mounting styles, suited for your personal needs and preferences.
The weight of your power assist device will determine portability and ease of storage. Their lighter product designs make it easier for transport and travel.
The battery range is the number of miles you can travel before charging. Power assist devices typically have a battery range of about 12 miles. Consider your battery needs before purchasing and if you need a longer battery range for running errands, traveling, etc.
Power assist devices make mobility easier and provide more speed than manual wheelchairs. Most power assist devices have programmable speeds that you can control. Depending on where you are going to use your wheelchair the most, this feature might be what you consider first before purchasing.
Some power-assist wheelchairs are compatible with Bluetooth devices. You can make phone calls, listen to music, and connect to other Bluetooth-capable devices. Though this may not be the first consideration, it makes for a very neat addition.
 | SMOOV Electric Power Assist for Manual Wheelchairs by Alber USA View Product |
Starting our list is the Smoov Wheelchair Power Assist System by Smoov. This rear-mounted wheelchair is sleek and is safety-designed. Needing only one person to install, its clamp-on mounting design allows you to easily attach to your manual wheelchair and power on the device. It is operated by a user-friendly speed control dial, which attaches to the side of your chair. The control is easy to use and can be operated by most users.
The Smoov substitutes speed for safety with a top speed of 6 miles per hour and allows for quick turns of the wheel's swivel fork. This combo means that you’ll have no problems navigating any tight turns when heading to your kitchen for your morning cup of coffee.
This power assist device comes with extra perks, such as a USB-C port and Bluetooth. The Smoov also has a locking claw feature and a 12-mile battery range. It also features the Smoov Mobility App which allows you to adjust the driving mode, battery life, and range. While on the move, it easily manages all terrains, including hills and inclines. Weighing just 16 pounds, it is perfectly portable and can be easily stored or carried along on trips, including flights. That’s right! It’s airline-approved.
.jpg&newwidth=365&maxheight=200 "EZRide+ Wheelchair Power Assist Motor Attachment") | EZRide+ Wheelchair Power Assist Motor Attachment View Product |
If you’re looking for speed and durability without breaking the bank, the EZRide+ Wheelchair Motor Assist Device by EZ Ride is the choice for you. It attaches to the front of your manual wheelchair, transforming it into an independently driven unit with a top speed of 12mph! This unique model delivers cheaper, lighter, and more comfortable alternatives to powered scooters. Due to its simple design, it’s easier to operate than other models and has three speed options. It features handlebars, headlights, and a horn that attaches to the front.
Its 360-degree turning radius offers seamless maneuverability and has built-in cruise control. It also has treaded wheels that provide traction for navigating difficult terrains. While it’s heavier than our other top picks, the EZRide+ still qualifies as lightweight. The EZ Ride+ can travel across asphalt, concrete surfaces, average-length grass, hard-packed dirt, and hard-packed gravel.
 | Firefly 2.5 Wheelchair Power Assist Device from Rio Mobility View Product |
There are many times when you fall in love with your current wheelchair. There's nothing bad about it, it's comfortable, sturdy, and with a good weight, but it lacks one little detail: it requires some effort to move around. The Firefly 2.5 Wheelchair Power Assist Device by Rio Mobility is perfect for users who love their current wheelchairs and wish for a little upgrade to pursue convenience and make their wheelchairs even better. This reliable companion is easy to install and is compatible with nearly all manual wheelchairs.
The Firefly 2.5 by Rio Mobility is the only add on you need to start moving around with your wheelchair effortlessly, and to strengthen your skills at maneuvering and control while inside of small spaces and tight rooms. This convenient power assist improves your independence and is a high-quality help when going through tilted roads or hills.
This easy-to-install power assist can be ready to use with your wheelchair in just minutes after the initial set-up. The Firefly 2.5 by Rio Mobility will provide you with up to 16 miles of effortless traveling per charge, more than enough for enjoying your favorite activities outside the house confidently, like going to the mall or visiting your favorite park.
 | Smart Drive MX2+ Wheelchair Power Assist View Product |
Our top choice is the Smart Drive MX2+ by Smart Drive. Smart Drive attaches to the rear frame of your manual wheelchair and is operated by a PushTracker wristband.
Conquer hills with confidence using the Smart Drive's built-in anti-rollback safety! Imagine pausing midway up a slope to snap photos of breathtaking views, knowing you won't slip an inch. With gravity defied, you're free to explore. Plus, the SmartDrive MX2+'s robust battery keeps you cruising for up to 12 miles on a single charge, turning every outing into an adventure.
You don’t have to worry about compatibility because this device is designed to work just fine with virtually any wheelchair. The motor is installed by simply attaching it to the back of the chair. The wheels allow you to spin in place, beat curbs easily, or even pop a wheelie! This device really is designed for an active lifestyle.
If you choose, you can power down your wheelchair and push it manually. It weighs about 12 pounds, making it easily detached and stored. It’s also compatible with the PushTracker App, where you can monitor your daily statistics, like mileage.
Power assist devices are very dynamic devices that add life and color to the lives of users by providing automatic wheelchair movement for manual wheelchairs. They also provide easier movement, enabling the user to travel farther distances with considerably less effort! They are designed around the concept of providing broad functionality in a wide array of situations. However, different brands have different specifications that suit individuals differently.
We chose the Smart Drive MX2+ by Smart Drive as our number one power assist device because it revolutionizes manual wheelchairs with its powerful motor and anti-rollback safety. Easily attachable to most chairs, it's controlled by a PushTracker wristband or app. With a 12-mile range and ability to conquer hills, it offers freedom and adventure. Lightweight and airline-approved, it's perfect for active users!
For more information about power assist devices and other medical equipment, be sure to visit us at Caregiver University for more information about products and caregiver resources! And for even more educational resources, check out our continuing education courses on RehabMart Academy!
After battling (and winning) cancer, Susan changed careers from being a paralegal to nursing. This decision was a direct result of the care received during her battle and all of her healthcare providers taking an interest in her as a person and not just a diagnosis. Thanks to those amazing experiences, this is the way Susan approaches nursing and caring for her patients. She is passionate about caring for all individuals but her primary focus is providing relief from the symptoms & stress of serious illnesses, the process of aging, and the particular problems of seniors.
Susan lost her right leg above the knee, to cancer, in 2013. Since that time, she has been very active in the amputee community helping to bring awareness and independence to other amputees. Read how Susan helped shape the future of new prosthetic devices.
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