Independent Mobility Available to All With Motorized Wheelchairs and Scooters

A manual wheelchair is an excellent solution for anyone whose physical problem, injury, or illness affects only their ability to walk but not their physical condition in general. People with mobility problems caused by other conditions may require extra help in order to remain mobile and independent. These people may require motorized wheelchairs, scooters, or power-base chairs.

Motorized wheelchairs come in three basic designs: power wheelchairs, motorized versions of manual wheelchairs, power-base wheelchairs, heavier wheel bases with a mounted chair, and scooters, a platform with a motor and chair in back and a steering mechanism in front.

A physical therapist or doctor can help you decide what kind of mobility device you should use if your physical condition includes a lack of muscle strength, motor skills, or coordination which lowers your mobility. If you are currently in physical condition to walk short distances you can use a power scooter for longer distances, but if your doctor thinks your condition may worsen in the future, you may want to get a power wheelchair now instead of later. Power wheelchairs are more compact and easier to use at home, do not require strength or motor ability to operate, and without the platform and steering apparatus, you can sit in a power wheelchair as easily as in any other chair.

Not being able to easily get in and out of a power scooter is a good reason to get a power wheelchair. Power-base wheelchairs and scooters have similar seating options, with seats resembling car driver seats or "pilot seats", or seats which resemble office seats. Because you don't have to step up onto a platform, a power wheelchair can be a better option than a power scooter even if you are capable of walking with a cane or walker but need a motorized device for longer distances. Comfortable recliners are also available with an electric lift for people who have trouble standing from a sitting position. The chair pushes you forward to a standing position, where you can then walk with a cane or walker.

If you don't have any trouble sitting and standing and you have the necessary arm strength and coordination but due to your physical condition cannot walk extended distances or push yourself in a manual wheelchair, a power scooter may be right for you. The steering apparatus requires some arm mobility, but if necessary you can buy a model designed to be operated with one hand. If you have no arm mobility, a power wheelchair can be operated with minimal hand strength and coordination. Weight can be a factor for some wheelchair or scooter users, but heavy duty models are available. Heavy duty power-base wheelchairs can be purchased which carry more than 600 pounds.

Talk to your doctor about your mobility situation and what you can do to keep moving. Just about any mobility problem can be solved with motorized wheelchairs, scooters, and power-based wheelchairs.