Whats the difference between a mobility scooter and a powerchair?
Mobility scooters have three or four wheels. Steering is via a handlebar (or tiller) requiring two hands. They are built for long distances, up to 35 miles and suit people with limited mobility or walking difficulties. Some models disassemble so that they can be transported in a car, or kept in the house. Powerchairs are more likely to be used indoors, although some are equally comfortable outdoors. Mobility scooters are more likely to be used outdoors, although some smaller ones are suitable for indoors. Powerchairs usually look more like traditional wheelchairs, some with batteries and a motor attached to each wheel. They have a joystick controller on the arm. Powerchair users tend to spend more time in their chairs, so they are usually more adaptable than scooters. Some may have specialist seats and controllers depending on individual users’ needs. They might need to be controlled by hand, chin or mouth. Footrests can also be specific to the user’s needs and can include swing away o
