Wheelchair

Types of Mobility Devices: Finding the Best Fit for Disabled Users

By kelingmedical

The mobility device selection matters the most to people with disabilities. They have to suit the device, whether it’s a simple walker or something more complicated such as a powered wheelchair or scooter. In this blog, we cover the different kinds of mobility devices available and help distributors and dealers know what device might work for their customers.

Understanding Mobility Devices

For those of us who have limited physical capabilities, mobility aids are necessary equipment. They enable users to travel comfortably and independently, regardless of whether they are recovering from an injury, living with a chronic disability or living with an ageing condition. Mobility devices consists of multiple products for all mobility levels.

Popular Types of Mobility Devices

Manual Wheelchairs: These are generally manual wheelchairs that are most commonly used in people with arm strength and who can walk independently. These wheelchairs are compact and easy to use for short trips and indoor applications.

Power Wheelchairs: Powered wheelchairs have motors to drive the machine, which is necessary for people who don’t have great strength in their upper bodies. They are a bit more independent and recommended for users who need a wheelchair daily or on a regular basis.

Mobility Scooters: Mobility scooters are best for people who struggle to walk for long distances. These electrical cars are perfect for camping, shopping, or a trip across the city. They’re more comfortable and can take you further than your traditional manual wheelchair.

Stability: Canes, crutches, walkers and rollators aid the partial-mobility person to keep him upright. They’re lightweight and easy to transport, which is great for people who still can get about.

Ramps and Lifts: There are ramps and lifts for the wheelchair or scooter user. These machines help you to move along stairs and elevation gradients without any extra help.

Choosing the Right Mobility Device

It’s very much a question of personal choice as to which device will be used, depending on how mobile the user is, the area where he/she lives, and what kind of life he/she leads. Here are some considerations:

Mobility: If the user can walk short distances a cane or walker may be enough. If they want to be assisted full-time, then a powered wheelchair or mobility scooter may be needed.

Comfort and Long-Term: Some mobility aids are made for long-term usage, so you can be comfortable and supported for a long time. Powerful wheelchairs, for instance, often come with cushioned seats and tilting parts to allow you to get exactly what you want.

Outdoor vs Indoor: The indoor wheelchairs and walkers are for indoor mobility, but mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs are ideal for outdoor navigation. : You need to select devices that are able to handle the user’s normal life situation.

ADA Compliance and Mobility Devices

When shopping for mobility aids, check to see that they will meet ADA wheelchair guidelines. That includes having large ramps, doors, and other access openings for wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

Conclusion

Mobile mobility gadgets have their distinct pros and cons and getting the right one requires you to get to know the needs of the user. Dealers need to know what each type of device is — whether manual or powered — from a power wheelchair, to a scooter or walking device, so they know which one to provide their customers.