Mobility Scooter or Power Chair?
Which is right for you?
Choosing between a mobility scooter and a power chair can be a tough decision - after all, if you get it wrong you could end up spending thousands on the wrong product. A mobility scooter user myself, as well as the sales manager of Scooters Direct UK, a mobility scooters company, and Wheelchairs Direct UK, a power chair company, I decided to compile this brief guide.
Choose a Scooter IF:
- Your have good seated balance
- Your can transfer independently
- Your are able to drive the vehicle unassisted
- You are sufficiently strong in the shoulders and arm to manage the handle bar tiller control and throttle
- You have adequate vision and awareness to operate the scooter safely - this includes hearing
However, a Power chair may be more advisable IF:
- You need hoisting.
- Your shoulders and arms are not sufficiently controllable or strong enough to drive a mobility scooter.
- Dual controls would be useful - where either you or an attendant may manage the driving of the wheelchair.
- Your require a leg rest or support, either electrically operated or manually
- Joystick controls, mounted on either arm, would be easier for you to manage.
On the whole, power chairs are more made to measure than scooters, and can be designed to suit the individual needs of the user. Many refinements are available, including chairs to lift the user between 4 - 12", tilt in space options.
Whether you are considering either a powerchair, wheelchair or scooter, you should always try the vehicle that you are thinking of. All Motability Accredited Dealers will arrange this for you if requested - Gower Mobility (0800 3896587) can arrange for assessments throughout the country, either by their own trained staff or by other Motability accredited dealers with whom they liaise to offer nation-wide coverage.
