As the aging process marches forward, many are faced with the need for a mobility chair to maintain their independence. If you or a loved one are in need of a mobility chair due to illness, injury, or simply because stability and stamina aren’t as good as they once were – let’s explore all the ways these helpful aids assist in keeping life normal and independent.

The Advantages of a Mobility Chair

A mobility chair not only helps you or your loved one remain independent, but it also means mobility. When an injury, chronic issue, or medication means lessened activity, then mobility chair can restore, well, your mobility. There are two types of chairs, manual and power. Manual chairs are most often called wheelchairs and are moved by you or a companion. Power chairs are generally referred to as mobility chairs and are powered by a motor and batteries and controlled by a joystick.

Because you are retaining your independence and mobility, you can get wherever you need to go, whether to meet friends, go to appointment, or just have fun and doing so has health benefits of their own. When you can get out and engage with others, it helps you avoid feelings of loneliness, isolation, and even depression. These negative feelings are linked to a decline in cognitive abilities, dementia, and even elevated blood pressure. By getting out and about with your mobility chair, you gain a better outlook on life as well as health and wellness benefits.

Choosing the Right Mobility Chair

When choosing your mobility chair, whether you opt for manual or power, there are several areas to consider.

Cost

Chairs range greatly in cost – from economical to expensive. Assessing your personal needs and wants, as well as your budget can help you decide. If your chair will only be used occasionally, then you might want to go with a manual option. On the other hand, if your chair will be put to extensive use, a power chair may be more to your liking. The price for manual wheelchairs ranges from $100 into the thousands depending on the features you choose. Power chairs are more costly with prices starting at $2,000 and going up from there. From attached bags to ramps, the more accessories you select, the higher the overall cost of your mobility chair. While Medicare Part B often covers some of the costs, it means you will need to meet their guidelines and submit a written order for the chair from your physician.

Modifications to Your Home

If you only use your chair when you leave home, modifications will be minimal. But if you will be using your chair inside and going from room to room, more modifications will be needed to accommodate your chair easily. You will want ramps at doors and will need to ensure the chair of your choice will fit through the doorways. In many cases, you will also need grab bars in the bathrooms to ensure you can easily access both the shower and toilet as well as in other rooms in which you transfer from chair to furniture. You may also consider the addition of raised toilets for easier access.

Safety

Safety is the final factor and a crucial one. You will want to choose a chair you can operate safely and meets your needs. Then, take the time to adjust to your chair, its brakes, and other controls. Avoid steep slopes when using your chair. Regardless of what chair you choose, children shouldn’t be allowed to ride on footrests or battery cases. Heavy loads of any kinds shouldn’t be carried. If you chose a power chair, it should be programmed to operate a speed that is safe for you. Take time to adjust to your chair to ensure you can operate the chair of your choice safely.

Your Mobility Chair and Transportation

Around the Space Coast, when you need transportation, Stellar Transport can help get you and your mobility chair where you want to go safely and on time.