The biggest concern with individuals having mobility restrictions often involves what type of mobility device will best suit their needs. Freedom and flexibility can be hampered if the right wheelchair or power scooter is not selected.  During the actual process of selection, you will need to consult with your physical therapist, friends and/or family to ensure you avail the correct device for mobility. Make sure you choose a company that has a proven track record for service and support as well.

Physical conditions, medical issues, and limitations are not included in this comparison, because those evaluations are dependent upon your physician.

Since power chairs and mobility scooters serve the same level of expediency or the same basic function, choosing one over the other can seem a difficult task. But it doesn’t have to be! Consider various factors like budget, features you need, personal disability level, and the amount of daily use you expect. Once you answer those questions the task becomes easier. Always seek out a professional that has the knowledge and time to answer all your questions.

Advantages of the Mobility Scooter

The mobility scooter is available in various designs without looking like a wheelchair. Many of these high-tech, advanced mobility scooters can be disassembled into lightweight pieces for easy transport. Some even fold up into the size of a suitcase (though heavier). Some mobility scooters come equipped with more than one battery and have off-board chargers making it more compact and lightweight than power chairs. In terms of budget, mobility scooters are usually more reasonable than power chairs but not always. They can have a higher ground clearance and can sometimes outmaneuver their power chair cousins.

Lightweight mobility scooters generally steer similar to a bicycle. They can efficiently drive into rear entry wheelchair vans or disassemble to be placed in a trunk. Almost all have a swivel seat that locks at a 90-degree angle; thus, it allows the user to easily sit without obstructions to maneuver around.

Disadvantages of the Mobility Scooter

Mobility scooters require a specific level of physicality to operate so they aren’t for everyone. The design of the steering mechanism is similar to that of a bike. Because of this, the individual using the mobility scooter must have the upper body strength and control to sit independently, with the control of both hands on the tiller to operate the direction and speed controls. It is good for individuals that can stand and walk short distances with the support of a cane or walker.

Those with major physical restrictions are not the best candidates for this mobility device. Due to a wider turning radius, mobility scooters can be difficult to navigate inside a home and perform better in open spaces like outdoors, malls and parks.

Advantages of Power Chair

Power chairs add convenience since these are fully customizable including seats that can be raised and lowered. They have an open front-load design that makes it easy to transfer the individual. Power chairs have a tight turning radius so it works well outdoors and in the home. Most power chairs come with on-board battery chargers making it simple to plug into any wall outlet to recharge.

Power chairs have been designed for the individuals that are in need of constant mobility assistance, so they avail the owner with adjustable footrests, joystick control, comfort, seat size and position, full control modules and more. Power chairs are going to fit the user’s body much better for comfortable rest all day long. Since the design is based on that of a wheelchair, power chairs can easily fit ramps, lifts, and other assistance.

Disadvantages of Power Chair

Power chairs can be pricey.  Power chairs are left assembled. They are heavy and require an accessible van or a car lift for transport. Power chairs often have a very low ground clearance and maneuvering over rough terrain is challenging. Most power chairs are meant to carry the user only and they don’t often have storage to carry personal belongings.

While they seem very similar, mobility scooters and power chairs serve two very different groups of people requiring mobility assistance. The former tends to be more for those who have their physical abilities and are outdoors more; the latter for those more physically challenged and are indoors more.

Choosing the Right Vendor

When it comes to choosing a power chair or mobility scooter, talk with your physician, friends, and family to get a clear picture of your mobility assistance needs and make an informed decision. If you’re stuck and unsure which of these will suit your need, then get in touch with our team at Affordable Medical Equipment to discuss a free no-obligation assessment! We take the time to help you find what is best for you. With a fully trained technical team and competitive pricing, you’re sure to get the product for you. Caroline H. said, “the staff is very professional and knowledgeable. They make sure you get what you need.” That was echoed by Mark B. who said; “They offer insight into what you are buying, they give you information you would probably never know, and the list goes on. There are almost ZERO companies which offer consideration and compassion along with the sales. Almost every company looks at a Buyer as a profit target. Not these guys. These guys should be the number one guys on your list to buy or rent any medical items.” Thank you, Carolina and Mark!