Typical users
Typical users of wheelchairs with power bases
are children and adults who want independent mobility. Advances
in technology mean that a suitable controller or switches can
be used even when a person has severe physical limitations. However,
these chairs are powerful vehicles. It is important that their
users have good judgment and maturity, to ensure the safety of
themselves and others.
Power chairs are now available in:
- Rear wheel drive. The power is behind the person,
so that it feels as if the chair is being pushed from behind.
- Front wheel drive. The power is in front of the person
so that if feels as if the chair is being pulled.
- Mid wheel drive. The power is under the person. This
offers the smallest turning radius, a plus in small homes, offices,
and other places where space is tight.
Power chairs offer many options for type of
armrests, leg rests, foot plates, rear wheels, front casters,
tires, and so forth. They can also be found with:
- Manual or power tilt, recline, or both
- Manual or power elevating leg rests
- Retracting armrests
Typical users
Typical users of scooters are children and
adults who:
- Have good head and upper body control
- Have sufficient range of motion and coordination to reach
and operate the controllers; usually a push or pull action of
thumb or fingers is needed.
- Can usually transfer independently
- Require less external support.
Considerations
for power chairs and scooters:
Power wheelchair technology is changing very
rapidly. It is important to test drive a wheelchair and try out
its controls before buying the chair. An experienced therapist
can be very helpful in this process. It is also a good idea to
ask other consumers if they are satisfied with their wheelchairs
and vendors.
If the chair will be used by a child, or by
a person with a progressive condition, it is important to ask
if it is "growable." That is, can it be adapted to meet
the person's changing physical requirements? For example, can
tilt or recline features or different controls be added in the
future -- or will you need a completely new wheelchair?
Due to the size and weight of most scooters
and power wheelchairs, transporting them usually requires a van
with a ramp or lift.
Not all insurance companies will pay for scooters;
check with your insurance carrier.
