Source One Medical Blog

Choosing Between A Scooter Or A Power Chair?

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 If you have been having difficulty getting around your home just to do simple tasks, you may be thinking about getting an electric chair to help you get around. Your doctor may even have suggested you get a mobility device like a power wheelchair or mobility scooter because you are having difficulty getting around or have problems with your balance. Cost can vary quite a bit between the two. Depending on your insurance coverage and the severity of your lack of mobility, it may be covered by your insurance (see if I qualify click here). While both have similar features, there are several differences that can determine which is best for you.

Mobility Scooters

• Scooters are usually for people who will not be spending most of their time on the device. Power chair users generally are in their chairs more and our designed for comfortable all-day use. Prolonged use of a scooter on a daily basis can result in developing problems with posture and discomfort.
• Because scooters have a “front end,” you can’t get as close to things while on them— tasks like dining, cooking, and other household tasks can be difficult.
• A scooters turning radius is much wider than a power wheelchair. This can make turning in tight places inside the home difficult.
• The seat on a scooter cannot recline like power chair can.
• Many can be broken down to fit in a trunk for easy transport.
• Scooters are generally less expensive than power wheelchairs—although cost shouldn’t be your only factor to think about, it is important. The cost for a scooter starts at around $1,500 and up. Many people with insurance coverage get a power wheelchair for inside the home and purchase an additional lightweight scooter for doing errands outside the home.

SHOP SCOOTERS CLICK HERE

Power Chairs

• Power chairs can range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more depending on the custom options you need and your weight. They are also much heavier than scooters.
• The superior seating on power chairs offer much more support for your back and head. Many can also recline for added comfort.
• Some seating options can include air seating and gel seating as an upgrade to foam for added comfort when using for prolonged periods of time.
• The controls are located at the end of your armrest which allows you an easier reach than using the handle bars on a scooter.
• Power Chairs can be operated with one hand enabling you to accomplish many tasks or holding onto something while operating the Power Chair.
• Power Chairs offer superior in-home maneuverability, fit almost anywhere, and turn on a dime.
• Power Chairs are a safe a secure option for individuals weighing over 350 pounds.
• Most Power Chairs offer 6 wheels. Two of which are anti-tip wheels for safety which are not offered on a scooter.
• Some higher end Power Chairs offer suspension for a more comfortable operation.