Powerchair users, a silly question...

SarahT41
SarahT41 Scope Member Posts: 29 Contributor
in Everyday life

I'm weighing up whether a powerchair would be more suitable for me as I have fatigue and shoulder issues. BUT I just had a thought that Google can't give me a straight answer to - how much are you limited by the weather? OK apart from a terrible downpour no one would be out in anyway? Or do you have to be very careful? I'm scared about getting stranded with no way of self propelling. Thanks in advance!

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  • Littlefatfriend
    Littlefatfriend Online Community Member Posts: 64 Empowering

    Hi Sarah

    I encourage you to think of the practicalities of an electric chair (transport in taxis or cars etc) and the cardiovascular benefits of pushing a wheelchair.

    Just sharing my own motivation

  • orangeapple57
    orangeapple57 Scope Member Posts: 41 Contributor

    Had my karma ergo traveller for 8 years and I home educate as well as use my chair for days out holidays and shopping trips. Weather is annoying but it's not too bad as you say only in light rain and then take shelter if it's heavy. I'll park in sheltered car parks or fo indoor stuff if it's cold and wet.

  • SarahT41
    SarahT41 Scope Member Posts: 29 Contributor
    https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/950695#Comment_950695

    Thanks for sharing and I appreciate it. For me, since I have several chronic illnesses and am working on an exercise program with a physio that is currently very limiting while I'm building up my tolerance to exercise. I've also been looking at lightweight folding chairs that would fit in a car boot. You bring up some excellent points though

  • SarahT41
    SarahT41 Scope Member Posts: 29 Contributor
    https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/950696#Comment_950696

    Thank you that's very helpful :)

  • JW77
    JW77 Online Community Member Posts: 127 Empowering

    We have 2 chairs that my girl uses the Quickie Q50 folding electric, and the chunky Trekenetic offroader.

    The first is only 14 kg, and folds easily into the boot of a car, fits on a bus etc. Has the option of 1 or 2 batteries.
    Some of the minicab drivers show off & lift it single handed!

    The second is chunky, but will deal with most terrains. That's gonna cost you!

    I'd try and do some test drives at one of the mobility shows, such as Naidex, or Motability Big Event (2025 dates are not up yet) https://motabilitythebigevent.co.uk.

    These are great as you also get the chance to stop and chat to folks using them day to day who are there for the event.

    Consider also bags, a front bag is good for phones/keys etc, and back bags to go onto the back to carry stuff. Also driving. Your arm is gonna ache from holding handles/joystick regardless of range.

    Previously we've had a Benoit power pack on a Karma wheelchair, and an Eeezeego folding.

    Also do ask on the Facebook group awesome wheelies.

    Hope that's useful

  • SarahT41
    SarahT41 Scope Member Posts: 29 Contributor

    @JW77 Thank you that is so helpful! Lots to think about

  • Wibbles
    Wibbles Online Community Member Posts: 2,244 Championing
    https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/126503/powerchair-users-a-silly-question

    You need an assessment from your local council / NHS OT section - a care needs mobility assessment - they then pay for and supply you with a suitable electric wheelchair !

  • Jonnyc
    Jonnyc Online Community Member Posts: 52 Contributor

    Powerchairs and heavy downpours don't mix. Light showers and drizzle are fine - but you'll need a waterproof cover that slips over your hand and joy stick to protect the electrics. There are plenty available online - Amazon, Ebay etc. Wearing a poncho - again there are plenty to choose from online - will also help protect the chair in a shower.

    Avoiding going out in wet weather is the better option or - if you have the upper limb strength - using a manual chair instead.

    Best wishes

  • Wibbles
    Wibbles Online Community Member Posts: 2,244 Championing
    https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/954494#Comment_954494

    Around the house - fine but not going to the shops …etc - that would be totally exhausting !

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