What to Consider When Choosing
The debate between the best electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters has raged on for years.
While some consumers prefer a scooter, others stay loyal to their wheelchairs.
Some consumers have a difficult time choosing between the two.
The details below will help guide you towards your preference and choose the one that is best suited to your needs.
What are Electric Wheelchairs?
A power wheelchair is run by a battery and an electric motor instead of using manual effort.
The user can drive the wheelchair by the touch of a button.
It is useful for those who have limited use of their hands and those who suffer from extreme fatigue due to exhaustion from using a manual wheelchair.
Electric wheelchairs are capable of going long distances, turning in tight spaces and enduring tough terrain.
Most electric wheelchairs are foldable and conveniently fit into closets, car trunks and SUVs easily.
It gives the user independence inside and outside of their home.
What are Mobility Scooters?
A mobility scooter is an aid similar to a wheelchair.
However, it is made to look more like a scooter.
It generally has two or three wheels, a swivel seat, handlebars and is run by chargeable batteries.
Those who use a mobility scooter should have good balance and use both hands for steering purposes.
Scooters are larger than wheelchairs and are not foldable.
They require specific equipment to attach to the car, or you will need a large van to bring it with you on your daily routine.
Mobility scooters are often used by those who can walk a few steps, stand and sit upright without support.
Electric Wheelchair Pros and Cons
Pros:
Independence
Ability to travel
Tight-turning radius
Lightweight wheelchair models are available
Variety of seating options
Beneficial accessories
Travel long distances
Stability
Easily fits into a car trunk or SUV
Variety of wheel styles available
Variety of battery choices
Ability to handle tough terrain
Moves with just one touch of your hand
Cons:
Battery operated
Regular charging of the battery required
Regular maintenance required
Mobility Scooter Pros and Cons
Pros:
Beneficial for those who have mobility issues that don’t require a wheelchair
Ability to be customized
Easy to assemble
Fast speed capabilities
Cons:
Charge battery regularly
Provides less stability when compared to power wheelchairs
Unable to turn corners at high speed due to stability issues
Weigh more when compared to powered wheelchairs
Not foldable
Bulky
Not compact
It can’t be used for travel
Limited use in the house and other indoor spaces due to their size
Most models cost more than a power wheelchair
Comparison of Wheelchairs and Scooters
When you take a close look at the two mobility devices, you will notice differences.
The electric wheelchair can cater to a variety of issues.
You can arrange and move the leg rests for your comfort, add helpful accessories in specific places for your convenience, operate and drive the wheelchair with a touch of just one control, never have to worry about stability issues, conquer tough terrain, choose from a variety of seat pads and cushions, fit into small areas, turn around in tight spaces, travel and customize it to fit all of your needs.
Scooters are large, wide and have restricted access to small areas, they are difficult to use indoors, especially in a house or apartment, the seating area is one size fits all with most models, you have to use both hands to drive the scooter, it is difficult to fit into a car trunk, you can’t fold it up and store it, traveling is difficult, and it often doesn’t meet travel regulations set by national and international standards, and it is barely customized to fit your specific needs.
Scooters are generally for those who have minor mobility issues and do not require a wheelchair.
This comparison between the electric wheelchair and the scooter will help you narrow down the right choice for you.
Generally, suppose your doctor has recommended that you use a wheelchair. In that case, you have various mobility issues, and you need a stable way of getting around. You want to feel comfortable in a customized chair, and you will want to consider an electric wheelchair.
It only weighs 50 pounds, folds in seconds, handles tight turns, is compact, easily fits in your car or SUV and is highly suitable for travel.
What to Consider When Choosing
You may have a clear idea by now of what you need.
Or, you still may feel like you can’t decide.
There are a variety of things you should consider that will help you make your decision.
If you need something to get around in when you leave your home, go grocery shopping, go to the mall or other public places, a scooter might be the right choice.
Since a scooter is usually too large to fit in a house successfully, you will want to feel confident that you don’t need assistance from the scooter in your home.
On the other hand, if you need a mobility device that will easily go from home use to outdoors and everywhere in between, you will want to consider an electric wheelchair.
Suppose you prefer to adjust your legs comfortably, enjoy a spacious seat, operate the chair with just one hand and easily fold and fit your chair into a car.
In that case, you will want to think about choosing an electric wheelchair seriously.
While both options have pros and cons, you will want to choose the one that has the cons you can easily deal with and accept.
If you will spend every day worrying about losing balance on a scooter, think carefully about your choice.
You don’t want to spend every day stressed out.
You want to live your life to the fullest and choose the mobility device that will keep up with you and your busy lifestyle.
Choose carefully and wisely, and soon you will find yourself solving the debate between the two options.
