Powerchair Vs Mobility Scooter – “Which will suit my lifestyle?”
For those with mobility impairment, electric powerchairs and mobility scooters are a great solution to regaining both your independence and freedom. However, selecting the right piece of equipment that best suits your needs is paramount and we are here to help you make an informed decision. The following article discusses the pros and cons of both powerchairs and electric scooters and provides a general guide to their differences.
Three Major Benefits of Electric Powerchairs – Getting around the home made easy again!
An electric powerchair is a high-tech piece of mobility equipment that is designed to dramatically improve mobility. Usually equipped with four to six wheels and steered by a programmable joystick, electric powerchairs are highly manoeuvrable and versatile enough to be used both indoors and on outdoor terrain.
Given their exceptional manoeuvrability and ability to turn on the spot, the first main benefit of an electric powerchair is that they are ideal for indoor use. The ease in getting around tight corners and areas of restricted space is one of the key benefits. For example, electric wheelchairs like the Puma 10 are capable of being comfortably seated at a table, taking up minimal legroom. Therefore, if your primary area of concern is indoor mobility and performing daily tasks around the home, then a powerchair will be an effective mobility aid for you.
Secondly, some electric powerchair models offer the widest array of seat movement options of any mobility vehicle. Models, such as the Cougar, provide the most versatility and support for those who have specific posture and orthopaedic requirements. The Cougar Tilt/Lift powerchairs offer motorised stand, tilt and recline functions, which make them more comfortable to use for long periods of time.
Thirdly, an electric powerchair provides independence for many people who suffer from debilitating conditions, such as loss of muscle strength, as they are able to control the powerchair with a toggle switch.
Are Powerchairs Portable?
Powerchairs are typically very durable and stable and it is often assumed that they are too heavy to transport. However, a range of new portable powerchairs, such as the Venice , Titan and the Como, are portable and can be easily dismantled for transportation.
Benefits of Mobility Scooters – Regain Your Independence
If you primarily need mobility assistance outside the home, for example to do the shopping or visit friends, then a motorised mobility scooter may be the best solution for you. Given a range of benefits and features such as:
handle-bar steering
safety features such as headlights and indicators
longer battery life and
better suspension
electric mobility scooters are a safer alternative if you're looking to increase your mobility outdoors. However, these days many mobility scooters have a fantastic turning circle and astute manoeuvrability, making them ideal for indoor use also.
Mobility scooters are commonly grouped under three general categories – portable, medium and heavy duty and the scooter you select needs to be most suited to your lifestyle. People have very different travel needs, from a simple daily trip to the shops, to extended trips along the coastline or across hilly terrain. There are even scooters made specifically for the golf course, such as The Golf. The most important consideration therefore, is deciding which mobility scooter will meet your needs and requirements - and, where you will park it!
If you have any questions or need assistance, please give the Advanced Scooters staff a call on 1300 738 339.
Portable Electric Scooters
A compact mobility scooter, such as the Scout, is an ideal choice for those looking for a portable and easy to dismantle option that easily fits in the boot of a car. Also perfect for travel, portable scooters, with their tight turning circle, like the GK9 Little Ripper, are ideal for those trips to the shopping centre. These portable options are also perfect for navigation within the home or other tight areas, such as supermarket aisles. Three-wheel portable scooter options, such as the GK7, have an even smaller turning circle and come with the added bonus of transportability. These compact portable mobility scooters are great choices if you have limited storage space, as they can be easily kept in an out-of-the-way corner or closet. Within the extensive range, there is also the GK10 Crossover, a larger model, which combines the advantage of portability as well as features such as pneumatic tyres, lights and a more comfortable seat.
Long Distance Electric Scooters
For those looking to regain the ability to head outdoors on hilly and rugged terrain, navigate footpaths and side roads in order to do the shopping, or visit family and friends, medium range and heavy duty scooters, such as the Shoprider Rocky 4 and Rocky 6 are ideal. With enhanced features including longer battery life, greater suspension, pneumatic tyres and a more powerful motor, a heavy duty electric scooter is ideal for those of you wanting to regain your independence and enjoy the great outdoors.
"So, Which One is Right For Me?"
If you are primarily in need of mobility assistance inside your home for your everyday needs and routine, then a powerchair or three wheel compact scooter may be the best option. On the flipside, if your primary need for mobility assistance is outside of the home, then an electric mobility scooter, be it portable, sturdy or heavy duty, may be the best solution for you.
Below is a table that outlines the features and benefits of powerchairs, in comparison to mobility scooters. Although we recommend consulting with your physician in regards to your most suitable mobility vehicle, this article and chart will also assist you to make an informed decision. If you would like to speak to a trained professional, call Advanced Scooters Brisbane or Advanced Scooters Sydney on 1300 738 339