Transportable mobility scooter or powered wheelchair?
Mobility scooters are ideal for people who have some degree of mobility. Powered wheelchairs or powerchairs are generally for people with little to no independent mobility and generally spend large amounts of time in them. Powered wheelchairs can be built to meet the specific requirements of the user whereas scooters tend to have more general specifications.
Operating the vehicle
Mobility scooters require a degree of strength to operate, and the user needs to control the handlebar steering. Scooters use a lever to operate their movement in a pull or push motion for forward or reverse, some users find this operation difficult particularly if they have progressive conditions or are very arthritic. If you are left-handed the majority of scooters and powerchairs can be altered to left hand operation. Scooters are designed for occasional to frequent use and the user must be able to sit upright independently.
Powerchairs can be configured for left or right-hand operation but require far less strength for controlling the direction of the product whilst driving. Powerchairs can be modified to accommodate the user’s needs fully including functions like tilt and recline, rise and stand, powered leg rests and more. With some powerchairs there is also an option for the product to be transferred to attendant control.
Transportation
There are transportable options in both categories, but it is important to ensure a transportable product meets your physical needs. Transportable scooters are versatile, lightweight and either fold up or break apart to go into the boot of a car. Folding transportable scooters can weigh more than each individual part of a break- apart boot scooter so it is important to try lifting the product and try it in your car before purchasing.
Things to consider when buying a boot scooter are:
- do you require suspension
- what support does the seat offer
- are you able to easily lift the scooter and put it back together if it breaks apart
- What sort of wheels do you need
- What are the limitations in terms of weight capacity, distance and product capability
Scooters generally have larger turning circles than powerchairs as they are longer but are usually lighter in weight than most powerchairs. Depending on what type of powerchair or powered wheelchair you require there are lightweight options that fold to fit into the boot of a car but if your needs are more complex then you may require a product that is more robust. Ultimately the needs of the product user will largely determine which mobility solution you choose.