Power Chairs vs. Scooters: Which is Right For Your Needs?

When it comes to mobility-restoring technology, most people think of wheelchairs for the home and scooters at Disney Land. However, there is more to know about the capabilities and tradeoffs between these two forms of transportation that you should consider when purchasing from Mobility Toys.

Most Common Use Cases

There are two categories of general usage for these vehicles: indoor and outside. The benefits of each type of vehicle are obvious, Scooters have cushy wheels, steering columns, and tend to be faster in a straight line, while Power Chairs have a higher degree of turning and speed control, are more compact, and make it easy to do other activities while using them. While this straightforward wisdom is evident and useful, there are options that can blur the line. For example, the Go Chair is an easily disassembled power chair that is lightweight and compact, making it a good hybrid option for the home and for taking out into the world. If your loved one likes to go out with the family and you are able to drive them around, this chair might be a great option for its adaptability. 

The Scale of Commonly-Traveled Space

When deciding between these options, have a conversation about the common traversal habits of your loved one. If they live in a smaller, compact house and prefer not to travel significant distances locally, a high comfort, six-wheel Power Chair will be the pinnacle of comfort and utility. If they prefer to be active and mobile around their town or community (or simply have a luxurious and giant living space), a scooter might be much more conducive to keeping them socially engaged and happy. 

Consider Options With Good Wheel Clearance

One last crucial but often overlooked factor in both Power Chairs and Scooters is the wheel clearance. This is the height of a bump or step the wheels can handle climbing. This may be a crucial factor if commonly traversed areas include small steps or lips like are often found at the bottom of door frames. Take care to look out for these and if you notice any significantly tall bumps, some mobility solutions may not be an option. Mobility Toys marks this data on the store page for all chairs and scooters. Make sure to consider this to avoid accidentally causing yourself a hassle in the future.

We have a large variety of wheelchair options that will fit everyone and every lifestyle. Be sure to browse our entire selection to find the one that best fits you! For more information about accessibility solutions as well as other medical supplies including wheelchairs, hospital beds, lifts, and scooters, call Mobility Toys at 909-944-9300 or contact us online today!

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