Power Mobility

Power mobility explained

Power mobility includes electric wheelchairs and scooters. You plug them into a standard power outlet. Charge them overnight. You get more power depending on the size of the batteries, the size of the user, and the terrain.

Scooters

Choose from 3 or 4-wheel models. They come in a variety of sizes. You have probably used scooters at shopping centers. You are familiar with how they function. Therefore, you can easily use one without practice. However, you have more to consider. Elevators can be an obstacle. With a scooter, you need to pull in forward and back out. Or you can have someone help you back out of the elevator. Three-wheel scooters are more maneuverable than 4-wheel scooters. However, 4-wheel scooters are more stable. If you worry about balance, then choose a 4-wheel style. That being said, many 3-wheel scooters also have anti-tip wheels to help with balance.

Economy scooters

A word of caution about economy scooters. The small 3-wheel scooters are lightweight and portable. Although that seems like a good idea, please keep in mind that they are lightweight because the batteries are small. And, because they are lightweight, they tip over easily.

Power wheelchairs

The power wheelchairs also come in a variety of sizes. Wheelchairs offer additional maneuverability, so you can pull into an elevator forward, turn around in place, and exit facing forward. Power wheelchairs can be pulled up to a table without the need to transfer to a dining chair.

Final thoughts

You choose a piece of power equipment by considering the size of the user, the surfaces that will be crossed, the size of the elevators, and, and the individual needs of the user. Decide if you need to transport the equipment. Only Beach Crossers can transport large scooters and power wheelchairs.