The mobility aids market teems with products designed for different users. From simplistic devices like crutches and walking frames to more sophisticated ones like mobility scooters, you can choose from a plethora of options based on your needs.
Mobility scooters and power wheelchairs are arguably the most advanced mobility aids. Both automobiles can improve your independence by letting you explore areas that would otherwise be inaccessible.
However, mobility scooters and power wheelchairs differ across several aspects. Read on for a guide to the top features to consider when choosing between these mobility aids.
Unpacking Mobility Scooters
Mobility scooters are precisely what the name implies – scooters designed for persons with mobility impairments.
Mobility scooters are battery-powered and come in three-wheel or four-wheel varieties. The vehicles are single-seat, although larger models may have chairs spacious enough to accommodate travel luggage.
Besides, there are several mobility scooter brands to explore. That includes Pride, whose scooters are available in different sizes, capacities, and speed limits. All you need to do is define your requirements before selecting the best mobility scooter.
What Are Power Wheelchairs?
Power wheelchairs are essentially the motorized versions of manual wheelchairs. These mobility aids are engineered for users with diminished upper body strength who are unable to navigate their environment using traditional wheelchairs.
Power wheelchairs are also known as electric wheelchairs, a clear distinction from their manual counterparts.
Like mobility scooters, these vehicles rely on battery-powered motors.
Similarities Between Mobility Scooters and Power Wheelchairs
Both mobility scooters and power wheelchairs are motorized devices. As mentioned, both vehicles rely on batteries. They may be powered by lithium-ion or lead-acid batteries.
Since mobility scooters and power wheelchairs are motorized, riders don’t need to strain when maneuvering these mobility aids. However, depending on your preferred option, considerable physical effort may be required for efficient steering.
Another notable similarity between mobility scooters and power wheelchairs is that there are several brands and models to choose from.
However, it’s important to research a manufacturer widely before investing in either mobility aid. Insist on highly-reputed brands with attractive warranties and exceptional customer service.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Mobility Scooters and Power Wheelchairs
1. Steering and Control
Most mobility scooters utilize handlebars for navigation. That’s the same feature in traditional bikes.
Meanwhile, power wheelchairs typically use joysticks for control.
Joysticks provide more precise navigation than handlebars, making electric wheelchairs easier to steer. The feature is particularly useful for riders with reduced upper body mobility.
Besides joysticks, power wheelchairs may also include switches and other specialized controls. The wheelchairs provide a more hands-off approach to getting around, making them more suitable for riders looking for maximum flexibility.
2. Size and Weight
Size and weight directly impact maneuverability, storage, and transportation.
Now, mobility scooters and power wheelchairs come in varying sizes and weight capacities. Some models can even be disassembled for easy storage and transportation.
However, power wheelchairs are typically larger and bulkier than mobility scooters. While electric wheelchairs provide greater stability, their larger size can impede access through confined spaces.
Mobility scooters tend to be smaller and more portable. Some models, such as Pride’s GoGo MG2, can weigh a paltry 32 pounds, making them remarkably easy to handle.
That said, some mobility scooters can weigh up to 500 pounds. Such models can be just as challenging to maneuver as electric wheelchairs.
3. Maximum Speed Limit
Mobility scooters are generally faster than power wheelchairs, capable of reaching top speeds of 10 miles per hour (mph). Most electric wheelchairs are slightly slower, maxing out at 8 mph.
Choosing between the two mobility aids depends on your requirements.
A scooter would suit you better if you must cover longer distances daily, such as when commuting to work. But if you only need a vehicle to explore your home’s immediate surroundings, then an electric wheelchair would do.
Remember to avoid speeding in whichever option you prefer. Especially when riding slowly while on busy streets or crowded spaces.
4. Ideal Riding Environment
It’s imperative to define your ideal riding environment before choosing a mobility scooter or an electric wheelchair.
Mobility scooters are remarkably versatile, with multiple options for indoor use and outdoor adventures.
Outdoor scooters are typically characterized by their large, pneumatic wheels and higher ground clearance. In contrast, indoor models tend to have smaller wheels and tighter turning radii. Turning radius refers to the sharpest angle that a vehicle can turn without skidding.
But if you’re looking for a mobility aid exclusively indoors, consider power wheelchairs.
Some electric wheelchairs have a turning radius as tight as 20 inches, allowing them to safely turn within a 40-inch space. That’s still sharper than smaller mobility scooters, whose turning radii barely fall below 30 inches.
5. Incline Angle
Incline angle denotes the maximum angle a vehicle can climb up or down a slope without tipping.
While turning radius impacts your ability to navigate tight corners in a motorized mobility device, incline angle determines the ease of riding along steep slopes.
Power wheelchairs have tighter incline angles than mobility scooters, allowing them to navigate steeper slopes. Electric wheelchairs can handle slopes up to three degrees steeper, size for size.
However, riding either mobility device on a steep slope requires extra precaution. Experts recommend bending forward while ascending sharp inclines and backward while descending.
6. Cost Considerations
Motorized mobility aids don’t come cheap. That said, mobility scooters are considerably more affordable than electric wheelchairs.
Most mobility scooters average $600 – $2,000, while power wheelchairs range from $1,300 – $3,000. The actual price will depend on your preferred brand and model.
As on this list, price should be the final consideration while deciding between mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs. Research either device based on other critical aspects like comfort and convenience.
After honing in on your desired product, compare prices across multiple brands and settle with the most affordable one. You can also manage costs by buying your mobility aid from dealerships that offer insurance and flexible warranties.
Besides, some dealerships provide amazing deals on pre-owned mobility aids. Just ensure you get the vehicle mechanically inspected before completing your purchase.
Wrap Up
Mobility scooters and power wheelchairs both come with unique features. Choosing either option depends on your personal needs and lifestyle.
Mobility scooters notably come in multiple sizes. You can pick small, compact models for easy storage and transportation. Besides, these scooters can hit higher speeds than electric wheelchairs.
But if you’re looking for a motorized mobility aid that provides better stability while navigating narrow spaces, power wheelchairs would suit you better. Electric wheelchairs also offer more precise controls due to the incorporation of joysticks.