Monday, November 21, 2011

Mobility Scooters Are A Good Purchase, But May Not Be Flexible Enough For The User by Michiel Van Kets


Having a power scooter seems like a lot of fun, but what about if a user is unable to walk or perform other common physical tasks on their own? For some the simple act of bending into a sitting position or getting up off a chair by themselves is nearly impossible to achieve. This is where a scooter cannot really help as it is best made use of outside. It is too large and bulky to ride indoors – unless of course the user lives or works in such a large space that it allows movement without hindrance. Also from a hygiene point of view, using the same scooter both inside and out means that dirt is tracked in. This is why people remove their shoes when entering a home!

So what is the answer to this slight dilemma? One good solution would be to acquire an electric wheelchair. It can be pulled up to a table for meals and to a desk for work. It is capable of going up stairs. It provides back and leg support for the user, unlike the scooter where they must rely on their own strength and posture in order to sit comfortably or properly in it.

The motorized wheelchair is extremely customizable – right down to specially fitted hooks and holders required for the specific purposes and needs of the user. There is a different mobile apparatus for just about any physical aid necessity, both indoors and out. There are even models that are foldable, meaning less unnecessary space taken up by having the wheelchair open at all times.

Electric wheelchairs come in rear wheel driven, center wheel driven, heavy duty and travel purpose styles; inside and outside use; and according to the maximum weight of the user. Some styles have multiple style options, depending on the specific requirements of use.

For example: the center wheel driven model can accomplish sharp turns, unlike the conventional wheelchair which must be maneuvered back and forth in order to negotiate a bend. Some models can mount curbs and other obstacles; provide dependable traction on all kinds of rough or smooth terrain; some have varying degrees of suspension. Perfect for steering around furniture in the indoor model, or negotiating pavements and other terrain objects in the outdoor model.

Special battery packs designed for wheelchairs come in both lead acid and no-liquid electrolyte gel form. They are sealed for extreme safety and can be charged at any battery level – no more waiting until the batteries are completely discharged again. In the past, doing so would reduce the battery’s maximum power capacity.

There are many other reasons to get a power wheelchair. Models are now lighter than their predecessors, they are more compact, allow more user flexibility and can be used both inside and outside. If the user finds themselves in the unfortunate situation that they have no more battery power while out, they can maneuver around by manually operating their wheelchair.

There are even a variety of pouches to fit every side, handle, frame part and handle of the wheelchair, designed to hold many sorts of objects. Also available are waterproof covers that completely enclose the device, and a specially designed and assembled canopy that includes a mounting kit – fitting just about every model of wheelchairs and mobility scooters. It obscures direct sunlight and rain.

It may seem like a tough choice – should an individual who requires aid in mobility get a power scooter or electric wheelchair? This all depends on what the majority usage of the device will be. Keeping in mind that a scooter cannot really be used indoors, pushed up to a table or desk, and cannot be used to access handicap facilities such as washrooms.

The electric wheelchair could be a more versatile choice for anyone who requires the help of a mobility machine, being designed for use in and out of the home or office.

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