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Safety Features for Your Power Wheelchair

Your safety is our number one priority. Quantum Rehab® offers a variety of power wheelchair accessories that help keep users safe. Whether you’re looking for yourself or for a loved one, these power chair accessories are perfect for meeting the needs of those who use them.

Quantum® Backup Camera

The Quantum® backup camera is one camera with many uses. It promotes safety with a rear viewing angle of 170 degrees. Some of its features include multiple mounting options available for the camera, 3.5-inch display with protective case to prevent damage and infrared capabilities allow for use at night. You can choose between two modes: one is that the camera is always on and the other is that the camera turns on with a reverse command. The Quantum backup camera is available exclusively on Q-Logic 3, but will also be available on NE/NE+ in the future.

LED Fender Lights

LED fender lights come standard on the Edge 3 Stretto® and Edge® 3 power chairs, ensuring that you can see and be seen. The lights are mounted to the fender above the drive tire on each side of the power wheelchair, increasing visibility from a wide range of angles. They’re ultra-bright, long-lasting, slim, compact and durable. This lighting package includes white front lights and red rear tail lights and are operated at the touch of a switch. Read more about why lights are important on power wheelchairs.

SRS (Smooth Ride Suspension)

Suspension isn’t flashy or fancy but very necessary for your safety when operating your power wheelchair. Experiencing high amounts of vibration while riding can cause user fatigue and discomfort. With unprecedented comfort and ride quality, Smooth Ride Suspension (SRS) delivers exceptional driving performance over multiple terrains. Additionally, SRS adds stability to optional iLevel® Power Adjustable Seat Height. With iLevel® technology, you can elevate 12” on your Edge 3, making it easier to see and be seen.

Seatbelt

This last safety accessory comes standard on every power chair. Wearing a wheelchair seatbelt is important to ensure your safety. This seatbelt reaches across your lap and keeps you strapped in and secure as you navigate uneven terrain.

To learn more about Quantum accessories, go to the product dropdown menu on quantumrehab.com. There, you will find an option labeled “accessories.” Clicking it brings you to our Quantum accessories page where you can find information about our power wheelchair products.

Elevating His Career with Quantum: Dave Bertz

When Dave Bertz joined Quantum in 2015, he had one goal: to grow.

After 19 years of rehab industry success, Dave, known by many as “Bertz”, started at Quantum in 2015 as Director, Quantum Sales – Western America. Over the past five years, he has made a significant impact in the growth of Quantum and has grown personally as a professional.

We are pleased to announce the promotion of Dave to Vice President, Quantum Sales – Western America.

Dave has demonstrated exceptional leadership, team building, and customer relations skills. He has been instrumental in expanding our relationships with therapists in clinics and rehabilitation facilities, which are key sales generators. Dave built a strong team which helped us to gain market share in the western half of the United States. Dave also worked to help build Stealth sales. He added regionalized educational members to his team to focus on educating providers and therapists on Quantum and Stealth products. Dave’s combination of product knowledge, rehab application, and interpersonal skills has made him a leader in the rehab industry.

When he’s not working, Dave enjoys spending time with his girlfriend, Susan, and two sons, Maddox and Landon. They enjoy hiking, lifting weights, and other exercises to stay healthy. Dave’s a diehard Lakers and Dodgers fan and was pumped that the Lakers won the NBA Championship and the Dodgers won the World Series, both in 2020.

Please join us in congratulating Dave on his well-earned promotion.

Quantum Power Wheelchair Backup Camera

As a power chair user, you understand the challenges you may face in different environments. Whether it’s driving down a sidewalk, navigating between parked cars or crossing the street, safety is a real concern for many individuals with disabilities. Over the years, Quantum Rehab® has developed a variety of power wheelchair technologies that address these safety concerns. iLevel® Power Adjustable Seat Height, for example, can raise a power chair user up to 12 inches in height, providing greater visibility and enhanced access. Front and rear LED fender lights on Quantum® Power Chairs help individuals see and be seen in low-light areas. Most recently, the line of Quantum wheelchair accessories has seen a new addition. Introducing the Quantum backup camera, a game changing device that has given power chair users the ability to see what’s behind them!

The Benefits of a Power Wheelchair Backup Camera

It can be difficult for motorized wheelchair users to see what’s behind them when reversing their chair. Many wheelchair users have difficulties turning their heads and necks to see what’s around them. A power wheelchair backup camera takes the guesswork out of reversing, especially when operating a wheelchair for narrow doorways. Whether you are reversing out in public or in your own home, the Quantum backup camera promotes safety with a rear viewing angle of 170 degrees. Door frames, family pets and small children are now fully visible thanks to this power wheelchair backup camera.

Add a Backup Camera to Your Stretto Narrow Wheelchair

If you have the Edge 3 Stretto® Narrow Wheelchair for narrow doorways in your home, why not add the backup camera to make your power chair experience complete? The Quantum backup camera is available exclusively on Q-Logic 3 controllers but will be available on NE and NE+ controllers in the future. There are multiple mounting options available. The 3.5-inch LCD display can be mounted off the armrest or side rails for added convenience. It also includes a protective case to prevent damage. There are two modes for operating the camera. The camera can stay on at all times or it turns on with a reverse command. The backup camera also has infrared capabilities for use at night, perfect for reversing into the bathroom in the middle of the night.

Purchase Quantum® Wheelchair Accessories

Want to learn more about the power wheelchair backup camera? Are you ready to purchase? Contact your authorized Quantum dealer and let them know you wish to purchase it.

iLevel Now on 40,000 Power Chairs

iLevel® seat elevation technology by Quantum Rehab® reached a landmark today as power chair number 40,000 was built with iLevel.

Released in 2015, iLevel is a power seat elevating system that promotes independence and social inclusion. As iLevel elevates, the power base reinforces stability electronically and mechanically to ensure safety at 12 inches of elevation while driving up to 4.5 mph, an industry first! iLevel’s patented Extra Stability Technology® enhances safety for transfers, reach and numerous other activities of daily living.

Look Behind You! Quantum® Launches Backup Camera

It began as a discussion, evolving into a reliable and durable product that changes the way our consumers see the world. Introducing the all-new Quantum® backup camera. This camera has many uses and promotes safety with a rear viewing angle of 170 degrees.

The Quantum team is super passionate about our products. We strive to make products that are better and more affordable. This passion fueled many discussions about how we can help consumers be more aware of their surroundings. The answer? A backup camera! The Quantum backup camera helps consumers be more aware of what’s around them when backing up. Several consumers tested the backup camera on their chairs before launch, providing valuable feedback that was incorporated into the final product.

The backup camera offers two modes: the camera is on always or the camera turns on with a reverse command. The 3.5-inch LCD display comes with a protective case to prevent damage. Infrared capabilities allow for use at night and the camera can be retrofitted onto existing power chairs. This revolutionary accessory can be purchased through authorized Quantum providers.

John Storie, Vice President of Quantum Sales, Eastern U.S., expects the backup camera to become a very popular accessory based on the responses we have received from consumers, therapists and providers.

“When reversing, wheelchair users may not know where walls, furniture, pets and other obstacles are,” Storie said. “Cameras are now offered for many different uses in today’s world, and we want people who use Quantum Power Chairs to have the same technology available to them.”

It is our passion to enhance the user experience and to constantly bring new, innovative ideas to life. The Quantum backup camera is just one more tool in the arsenal of Quantum products to help consumers live full and active lives.

Planning a Safe and Accessible Thanksgiving

We’re all living a new normal due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With Thanksgiving coming up, you may be unsure if you’ll be able to celebrate with your loved ones this year. Whether you live alone or with other people, there are still ways to celebrate Thanksgiving with your friends and family, even if you can’t be together in one place. From Zoom, FaceTime and Google Hangout video calls to a socially distanced, outdoor gathering in your backyard, here are some ideas of how you can celebrate the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday.

Virtual Family Gatherings

The great thing about 2020 is that even though we must practice social distancing and be apart from our family and friends, technology allows us to see our loves ones virtually! From FaceTime calls to Google Hangout sessions, it’s easy to set up video calls between you and your relatives. Even your older relatives can figure out how to use Zoom, you just might need to help them! Email your family to pick a day and time where you can all get online to video conference. If you have a family member that is hard of hearing, there are options for text-based chatting as well. The great thing about today’s video conferencing software is that many of them offer fun and silly features, such as emojis, virtual masks and hats and more! In a Zoom call, you can even change your background. It may be cold and chilly outside but your family and friends will see you on a warm, relaxing beach.

Socially Distanced Holiday Celebrations

If you live in a warmer climate, you may consider planning a socially distanced, outdoor gathering for Thanksgiving. To help make the experience safer for you and your guests, be sure to space everyone at least six feet apart. Instead of giving hugs or handshakes in greeting, try an elbow bump. Consider a buffet style setup where guests can serve themselves one at a time. Remind your guests to wash their hands often. To make it more fun, consider having some holiday-themed soaps on hand. Get more handwashing tips. Have hand sanitizer available, as well as single-use plates and silverware. It may be a lot of extra work but it’s important to stay safe when spending time with people outside of your household.

Plan a wheelchair-accessible, socially distanced gathering

Electric Wheelchair Accessible Gatherings

If you have friends or family who use electric wheelchairs for mobility, it’s important to consider them when planning your outdoor gathering. Make sure the spot where you are hosting the gathering is electric wheelchair accessible. If you use tablecloths, don’t let the tablecloths drag on the ground or they might become tangled in the wheel of a power wheelchair. Avoid blocking aisleways with decorations and make sure there is ample space for a wheelchair to fit around the outside of your table. Get more tips on planning an electric wheelchair-accessible gathering.

iLevel® Technology Empowers Veterans

If you are a veteran that is living with a medical condition that affects your mobility and your ability to complete daily activities, you should consider whether a custom wheelchair may be right for you. You deserve to have more independence in the home and Quantum Rehab® designs custom wheelchair models to help those living with disabilities or medical conditions such as ALS, multiple sclerosis or multiple extremity amputations and provide a greater quality of life.

What is a Custom Wheelchair?

A custom wheelchair is sometimes referred to as complex rehab technology wheelchairs (CRT) that are medically necessary and customized to fulfill the needs of the user. CRT wheelchairs are made up of different components that support positioning, comfort, posture and much more. These CRT wheelchairs require an evaluation, configuration, fitting and sometimes programming. Learn more about the process of obtaining a CRT wheelchair.

Quantum’s narrowest power chair is the Edge 3 Stretto®, an ideal choice for veterans who live in homes with tight doorways and small rooms. The Stretto offers a narrower width of 20.47 inches. It comes standard with front and rear LED fender lights and a USB charger. It also includes independent SRS (Smooth Ride Suspension) for a comfortable ride.

iLevel® Technology on a Custom Wheelchair

The Edge 3 Stretto is available with iLevel® Power Adjustable Seat Height, which raises the seat of the power chair up to 12 inches. This elevation allows veterans to complete daily living activities safely, such as cooking, grooming, reaching, toileting and transferring. The Edge 3 Stretto Power Chair can also drive at 3.5 mph while elevated. Other benefits of having iLevel include:

Improve self-esteem
Improve social function
Enhance employment potential
Enhance communication
Improve quality of life

The VA will consider funding a power wheelchair with iLevel for any veteran if the technology meets the benefits of the veteran as listed above. iLevel may result in improved functional independence, allowing the veteran to access surfaces that cannot normally be reached from the lowered position on power chairs.

How iLevel Helps Veteran Bryan Anderson

Bryan Anderson in his iLevel Power Chair

Bryan Anderson is a veteran and triple amputee from the Chicago area. Thanks to iLevel, Bryan maintains his independence in and outside of the home. He can do the dishes, make his bed, do his laundry and take out the trash. He is also able to cook for himself safely. Learn more about Bryan and his custom wheelchair.

Pride/Quantum Complete United Spinal Association’s ADA Corporate Challenge

Pride Mobility/Quantum Rehab recently completed the United Spinal Association’s ADA Corporate Challenge. The company took the challenge and submitted feedback, along with a video, demonstrating their commitment to an inclusive workplace and how it is helping employees with disabilities grow and succeed.

The United Spinal Association’s campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of making workplaces, products and services accessible and welcoming to people with disabilities.

United Spinal’s ADA Corporate Challenge is a part of Roll on 30!, a larger initiative to celebrate the 30^th anniversary (July 26, 2020) of the Americans with Disabilities Act, a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation and all public and private places that are open to the general public. Roll on 30! brings together United Spinal members, partners, and the larger disability community to strengthen the ADA through education, advocacy and action.

As part of the ADA Corporate Challenge, United Spinal developed a series of questions and answers that companies should consider in promoting an inclusive and accessible workplace for wheelchair users and all people with mobility disabilities, including:

Is my company actively recruiting people with disabilities?
Are my company’s technology, products and services accessible to employees and customers with disabilities?
Do my coworkers and I need disability etiquette training?

United Spinal will be spotlighting submissions from companies who took the challenge, including Pride/Quantum, on their website and social media, showcasing how the companies are driving progress toward a more inclusive society.

Edge 3 Stretto® Named HME Business New Product Award 2020 Winner

HME Business magazine has named the Edge 3 Stretto® Power Chair one of the winners of its New Product Award 2020 contest. The Edge 3 Stretto won in the “Mobility – Power & Manual Wheelchairs” category.

The HME Business New Product Award honors outstanding product development achievements by HME manufacturers and service providers. This was the seventh year for the contest. Winners will receive awards and will be featured on the HME Business website and in the November/December 2020 issue of HME Business magazine.

“We enjoyed a terrific competition this year, with lots of different products for lots of different categories,” said David Kopf, HME Business Publisher and Executive Editor. “Best of all, we started to see some new names added to the mix, which proves that HME continues to be a vibrant, growing marketplace with lots of different solutions for in-home healthcare. I want to thank all the companies who submitted entries. I also want to thank our panel of HME provider judges. Each year a group of providers from a variety of backgrounds and with diverse specialties shares its expertise in scoring the entries. This award depends on everyone involved and my hat’s off to the entrants and judges alike.”

The Power of Choice with Q-Logic 3

When discussing with your therapist about which narrow power wheelchair is right for you, remember that you have choices! While your new narrow motorized wheelchair must meet your medical needs, quality-of-life needs are just as important. At Quantum, we understand the importance of maintaining independence in and outside the home, which is why we design our products with you in mind. Your doctor or therapist may have suggestions for you, yet it’s important to do your own research to see what narrow motorized wheelchair products are available to you. By doing your own research, you are better equipped to advocate for your needs!

After the Seating/Mobility Evaluation

You are probably familiar with the mobility evaluation and fitting process. If not, you can learn more about how do you get fitted for a wheelchair. Once you have completed an evaluation, it’s important to speak with the Assistive Technology Professional, or ATP, who works for your authorized Quantum® dealer. The ATP and your therapist offer suggestions to you regarding which narrow power wheelchair best suits your needs. They’ll also prescribe appropriate electronics, power positioning components and even a cushion if it is necessary. Doing your own research, however, it just as important, especially when it comes to narrow motorized wheelchair electronics.

Edge 3 Stretto® Narrow Motorized Wheelchair

The Edge 3 Stretto® narrow power wheelchair is a great choice for individuals who live in tight quarters or have to navigate narrow doorways and thresholds in the home. If you feel that the Stretto is a good fit for you, the next step is to decide which drive control system is best for you. While there are several options compatible with the Edge 3 Stretto, the Q-Logic 3 Advanced Drive Control System is highly customizable and expandable. Q-Logic 3 comes standard with Bluetooth® technology, so you can operate your tablet or smart phone using your Q-Logic 3 joystick screen. With optional Q-Logic 3 EX Enhanced Display, you can also operate a wide range of appliances that use infrared (IR) remote controls using your electric wheelchair controller. From adjusting the thermostat to operate the television, utilizing environmental controls through Q-Logic 3 gives you greater independence in the home. Learn more about what you can do with Q-Logic 3, an expandable controller for power wheelchairs.

Be an Advocate for Yourself

While it’s important to work with your therapist and ATP on which components are medically necessary on your electric wheelchair, it’s also important to advocate for your quality-of-life needs. If you feel that you would benefit from Q-Logic 3, speak up. Remember, you have the power of choice.