Trying to decide on the appropriate mobility device can be an overwhelming task. Here are a few things to consider when trying to decide on the right one:
Electric Scooters are:
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Easier to transport because they do not require an accessible vehicle like power wheelchairs do.
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Less cumbersome in tight spaces
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Less “medical” looking
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Significantly cheaper than a power wheelchair
Electric Scooters are not:
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Supportive of good sitting posture
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Designed to be used by small bodies
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Easy to maintain hand throttle for long periods of time
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Equipped with power seating features for tilt, recline or elevate
Things to consider when choosing an electric scooter are:
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Do you want 3 or 4 wheeled?
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Does it have a height adjustable seat in order to allow the feet to rest comfortably?
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Does the manufacturer have pediatric sized seats available?
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Is the tiller with the controls adjustable?
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Are the controls hand grip, thumb controlled or joystick?
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What is the warranty and/or repair costs?
Power Wheelchairs are:
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Structurally stronger than scooters
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Able to offer multiple power seating options such as tilt, recline, elevate and standing
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Fully adapted for a variety of control modules and switches specific to a person’s needs
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More supportive for posture and accepting of custom seating modules
Power Wheelchairs are not:
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Cheap
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Easy to transport without an accessible vehicle
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As small as scooters
Things to consider when choosing a power wheelchair are:
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Ask your therapist for their input and to be involved in the decision making.
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Which type of “drive” do you want? Front, mid or rear wheel drive? If you don’t know, try all of them out.
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What kind of seat and back cushion comes with it? Is it interchangeable with others if that one does not meet your needs? Short term and long term.
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What kind of joystick, switch or other control are you able to use to operate this device and can it be changed later if your needs change?
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How are you going to transport this power wheelchair?
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Is your home, school/work accessible to this device or will modifications need to be done?
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Submit for pre-authorization with your insurance prior to ordering the device.
For more information, access our Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Guide for Individuals Living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy HERE.