If old age, injury, or disability prevents you from being able to walk, then a medical mobility vehicle can help you maintain a normal life and allow you to go about your daily errands and activities.  But before you make your purchase, learn about the two types of powered vehicles available to you and the different models for each.   

Wheelchairs versus Scooters

When deciding whether a powered wheelchair or mobility scooter is right for you, you should consider the advantages and disadvantages of each. Wheelchairs offer greater comfort, so they are best for people with severe or permanent physical disabilities. They also provide more support to persons who have difficulty maintaining good posture.  But these extra features come at a higher cost. In addition, wheelchairs are heavier and more cumbersome than scooters. 

Mobility scooters are light and can be folded up easily for convenient transportation. They come at a fraction of the cost of wheelchairs, ranging from about $1,000 to $5,000 as compared to $15,000.  Many people also find them to be more stylish than wheelchairs. However, people with mobility issues in the upper body may be unable to control electric scooters, which are steered with bicycle handles instead of a joystick. 

Types of Wheelchairs

If you have decided that a wheelchair is right for you, then you should consider the different options available to you.

• Basic wheelchairs come with foot, leg, and arm rests and a few seat width options. Extra features, such as more seat width sizes and removable arm rests, can be added on for an additional cost. 
• Lightweight wheelchairs are a great choice for people who travel frequently.
• Bariatric wheelchairs can support more weight and come with greater seat widths for larger individuals.
• Recliners are generally used by heavier individuals as well, and offer more comfortable support for the back.
• Transport chairs are for individuals who rely on another person to move the wheelchair for them. They come in standard and heavy-duty styles.
• Pediatric chairs are smaller and designed for children.

Scooters

If a scooter is your mobility vehicle of choice, then read on for a description of the various models to choose from.

• 3-wheel scooters are more suited to indoor use as they can navigate hallways and corners more easily.
• 4-wheel scooters are good for indoor and outdoor use.
• Travel scooters are easier to fold up and store, making them ideal for people who travel a lot.
• Heavy-Duty scooters have an extra carrying weight capacity compared to standard scooters and are designed for heavier individuals.