I recently upgraded my power wheelchair to a newer model, Quantum’s Edge 3 with iLevel®. There are so many things I love about my new power wheelchair! The new model has upgraded Bluetooth® technology, enhanced suspension, more speed options, and of course, iLevel power adjustable seat height.
The Bluetooth technology in my old electric wheelchair only allowed me to connect to one device at a time. The new electric wheelchair allows me to connect to multiple devices at the same time. As a college student this feature is very helpful. I can have my phone and laptop connected at the same time. Bluetooth technology is very important to me because it gives independence and allows me to access my phone to connect with friends and family and use social media apps.
The SRS (Smooth Ride Suspension) on the new motorized wheelchair is a big improvement over my older wheelchair. The ride is incredibly smooth. When I go over doorway thresholds, it is much smoother, and not as bumpy as it was in the other motorized wheelchair. I’m also able to navigate over rougher terrain with less bouncing. Another feature I am enjoying are the additional speed options. There is a speed for every situation I encounter. Slow speeds for crowded areas and faster speeds for cruising around in large areas or outside. I can adjust my speed to match the walking speed of others in my group. The ability to adjust my speed is important to me because I don’t want to feel like I’m holding up the people behind me.
I have been very happy with Quantum’s line of Q6 Edge® power wheelchairs. The iLevel feature is one of my favorite features. When I’m at social events, if there is a large crowd standing in front of me, I’m able to raise up in my wheelchair to see over the crowd. Sometimes I have had to use this feature to see over a railing at arenas. It’s also nice to be able to raise up to be at eye level when I’m talking to people. When I’m talking to people, it gives me confidence that I can make direct eye contact with them. It makes it easer to engage in the conversations and to hear the other person. When I elevate, it’s also easier for the other person to see and hear me because they don’t have to bend down.
My Quantum power wheelchair is very easy to drive and maneuver in tight spaces. I currently use a head array system and I’m working on transitioning to a joystick. I am able to switch from the head array to the joystick and back on my own without any assistance.
When I was first injured, I didn’t know anything about electric wheelchairs. I am so thankful that my physical therapist recommended Quantum. I have encountered many people that use electric wheelchairs and always compare their model to mine. I notice the differences and it re-affirms that my decision to have a Quantum power wheelchair was a great decision. I get compliments all the time on my power wheelchair. People are impressed with the technology it has, how durable it is and how compact and sleek it looks. Plus, I get asked all the time to demonstrate the iLevel feature.
About Matt Olson: Matt lives in Isanti, Minnesota. At 23 years old, he sustained a spinal cord injury while playing hockey. He is currently pursuing his degree in Environmental Science at Anoka Ramsey Community College. Click here to learn more about Matt.