What is the difference between a Scooter and Electric Wheelchair

What is the difference between a Scooter and Electric Wheelchair?

This is a common question we get all the time. In a simple definition the difference is that a scooter has a handle bar and a wheelchair has a joy stick. Scooters are most commonly used for longer distance travel and for more diverse terrain. They are also common for individuals who need assistance with mobility over long distances but not necessarily with “around the house” mobility.
There are basically two types of scooters, three wheel and four wheel. The fur wheel has a larger turning radius and also is suited for more varied terrain as in through the yard. We do not recommend a three wheel scooter for individuals who will be using their scooter to get around their yard on uneven ground. While it is rare, they are more prone to tip on uneven surfaces than does a four wheel version.
However if you will be driving on paved sidewalks, roads, etc, the three wheel is fine and significantly smaller and lighter than their four wheel cousins.

An electric wheelchair on the other hand is suited more for “around the house” with a tighter turning radius it maneuvers through door ways, and around furniture easier. The wheelchair is also more for individuals who have very limited mobility and rely on their power chair for most of or all of their mobility.
There are basically three types of these chairs with the drive wheels dictating the configuration. There are rear wheel drive, front wheel drive and mid-wheel drive. The rear wheel drive is the most popular, and offers many advantages over the other configurations.
The mid wheel drive gives the tightest turning radius and is a favorite for those who will be moving over curbs, and bumpy terrain.
If your mobility is limited to the home use the front wheel drive has a slightly tighter turning radius and is a good choice.

It is always best to speak with your doctor and get a recommendation. Usually, your doctor will advise as to the amount of use you will need and this is valuable information in making an intelligent decision.

If you have any questions concerning which is best for you, give us a call and we will be glad to assist.