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Wheelchair versus Scooter?
When deciding whether to buy a scooter or power wheelchair, some factors to consider are:
Control and manoeuvrability -
- Scooters are steered with a tiller, functioning like a bicycle's handlebar and have rear or front wheel drive
- Power Wheelchairs are usually controlled with a programmable joystick and have good manoeuvrability in small and tight spaces
Weight capacity -
- The weight capacity of a rear wheel scooter is normally between 250 and 350 pounds though some models can carry up to 500 pounds
- Weight capacity varies for power wheelchairs and they also provide a larger variety of seating options and postural support.
Speed -
- Scooters usually have speed settings varying between 1 to 5 miles per hour though some will go a little faster. The speed settings are controlled by a control knob.
- Power Wheelchairs settings are 1 to 5+ miles per hour and again speeds are controlled by a control knob.
Power -
- Front-
wheel drive scooters usually have a single 12 volt battery capable of travelling 5 – 10 miles before recharging. Rear- wheel drives have 2- 12 volt battery capable of 15 – 20 miles before recharging. These distances are increasing due to better modern battery technology. - Power wheelchairs are equipped with 12 volt batteries capable of going 15 to 20 miles on a full charge over level terrain, sometimes more.
User safety -
- Scooters are less safe for use as a seat in a motor vehicle and are more difficult to secure.
- Power wheelchairs are safer for use as a seat in a motor vehicle as they are normally easier to secure.
Durability -
- Scooters can usually be broken down into parts and stored in the back of a car or small van.
- Power wheelchairs can't be broken down and are too heavy to be lifted easily.
Price -
- Scooters, though less expensive than power wheelchairs, may be available with additional features, the choice of which may increase the price significantly.
- Power Wheelchairs usually come with all necessary parts fitted as standard.
As a last resort, if extra speed is needed, you could always try fitting
a rocket motor to the back as shown to the right (just kidding!)
Scooter versus Wheelchair Power
A scooter is a wheeled cart or personal mobility vehicle (PMV) with an electric motor
designed to make mobility easier for a sick or disabled person. They are also often
used by people whose mobility is restricted but are otherwise in good health just
to get around on!
What is a Wheelchair?
A wheelchair is a chair that is mounted on wheels that are normally quite large. It is designed to make mobility easier for a sick or disabled person. Wheelchairs are often heavier than scooters and are used more by people with more severe problems of mobility.
