Mobility Scooters Vs. Power Wheelchairs: Which Is Right For You?

If you’ve never purchased mobility products before, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. There are lots of options available and quite a few brands on the market.

However, with a little research and some attention to detail, you can find the right mobility product for yourself, or your loved one.

One of the biggest questions people ask is: Do I need a mobility scooter or a power wheelchair?

Although these products seem similar, there are a few key factors that differentiate them:

• Structure: Mobility scooters have either three or four wheels and are steered with handlebars. Power wheelchairs have four wheels and are steered with a joystick located on one of the armrests.

• Purpose: In general, power wheelchairs are better equipped for in-home use, while mobility scooters are designed to traveling from place to place outdoors, in stores, etc.

• Capabilities: Mobility scooters can glide smoothly over a variety of surfaces, including fairly rough terrain. Their portable versions can be stored in a vehicle’s trunk for easy travel. Power wheelchairs, on the other hand, are designed to easily move around narrow hallways and tight spaces. They also usually have anti-tipping wheels to make sure you or your loved one feels safe and secure.

You should also note that power wheelchairs are designed to have a user in them for most hours in the day. Because of this they have extra padding, contoured backs and other similar features that make them easy to sit in for extended periods of time.

These products are intended to meet two very different mobility needs. Determining what kind of mobility assistance you or your loved one requires will help you decide which chair to purchase.

By: Kirk Matthews

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