Advice needed on electric wheelchair/mobility scooter please

MissMarple

I'd like to speak to people who use an electric wheelchair or a mobility scooter. I'm considering buying one and would be grateful for any advice what to pay attention to when choosing a model.

I have severe fatigue. I'm OK walking a few metres inside my home, but need someone to push me in a wheelchair outside. I thought that an electric wheelchair and/or mobility scooter would make it possible for me to leave the house on my own. I'd like to go to the nearby park or attend medical appointments using a taxi. I would need something lightweight, that I can get through the front door/gate on my own and doesn't require specialist transport vehicles. Do lightweight electric wheelchairs exist? What works outdoors on pavements? How far can I go on one battery? I've tried to look up the details, but it feels overwhelming. So many things to consider, and it's a huge expense to get it wrong.

Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks

janer1967

Hi 

I have both and they are not lightweight 

A chair is easier to access more places as scooters are often too big to get in and move around in smaller places 

Neither will go up steps and you can only really use drop kerbs safely 

Personally I use my electric chair more than my scooter it is a folding one and fits in car boot 

MissMarple

Thanks @janer1967 I read somewhere that electric wheelchairs are usually extremely heavy due to the battery, that one person can't even lift them. So I'm confused how can yours be put in the car boot if not lightweight?

janer1967

They are heavy but can be lifted in my boyfriend or son put mine I couldn't do it but I only have 1 leg so thats why 

Scooters are OK if you can get up and walk around a bit like to toilet in pub or something but you would struggle getting in toilets in scooter unless large disabled toilet 

The chairs have lot smaller turning circle 

Best advice is to go to a mobility shop tell them what you want it to do and it's use and try some out 

MissMarple

Thank you. 

JustPete

@MissMarple
There are also Power "add-on" units.  These attach to a manual chair for when you are outdoors.  You can detach them for indoors.  I have never used them as I am a full-time electric wheelchaiir user.

Google something like "power assisted self-propelled wheelchair".  More importantly get specialist advice tailored to you.

MissMarple

Thank you @JustPete I didn't even know such thing as 'add on' exists. Much appreciated.

JustPete

@MissMarple no probs, let us know how you get on!

MissMarple

Thanks for asking @Libby_Scope I'll probably visit a mobility store to get expert advice as @JustPete suggested. 

Danielle_2022

Just wanted to also add that no accommodation should ever feel like too much. These people are there to help and it’s so important to be comfortable in whatever you choose. You know how to achieve that better than anyone & there’s always more that can be done with these things. Generally, if one place can’t meet your specific needs, they will know somewhere else that can. Don’t settle!

Spoonie_Naila

Hi @MissMarple. Did you ever manage to find the right chair/scooter?  I bought a mobility plus electric wheelchair. Best thing I ever did. Has given me so much independence. It’s lighter than most electric wheelchairs but you may still need assistance getting it in & out if the boot. Great for hospital, supermarkets etc. not really made for rough terrain but I have used it on pavements from time to time. 

If you’re still looking. There’s also an exhibition in Birmingham where there are many different companies showing their products. It’s great way of trying out the equipment before you buy anything. Here’s the link:

https://www.naidex.co.uk/naidex-2022-agenda

you can still register for free tickets 

MissMarple

Thanks @Spoonie_Naila I bought a mobility scooter. It's very lightweight (20 kg) and folding into a small suitcase size. Going out still floors me, but at least I've managed a few trips independently to the corner shop/pharmacy.

Spoonie_Naila

@MissMarple glad you found something to give you a bit of independence. I find scooters difficult as they tire my arms out. Wheelchair’s much easier to navigate but not as robust as scooters.