Several years ago, my daughter, a 17 years old college Freshman, was paralyzed from the waist down as the result of a fall. She was determined to continue on with college and needed a way to get around the campus. Fortunately an electric mobility scooter provided her with the freedom and mobility she needed during that difficult period in her life.

Without the aid of the electric mobility scooter, my daughter would have had to drop out of college and return home until she could recover, and at that time, no one knew if she would ever recover her ability to walk again. Thank God, she did regain her ability to walk only a short time later, but nevertheless, the electric mobility scooter provided not only the physical freedom and mobility but also the psychological boost she needed during the crisis period.

Electric wheelchairs and power mobility scooters deliver power mobility to elderly, seriously ill, and disabled individuals. Today, more than ever before, electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters help people, like my daughter, with limited mobility regain their freedom and independence.

"For 38% of the 54 million Americans with disabilities, mobility limitations and impairments are permanent. For these individuals, a variety of mobility aids and devices are necessary in order to provide support, motion and access, as well as to enable them to lead active and fulfilling lives."
- United Cerebral Palsy of New York City, http://www.ucpnyc.org

* Electric Wheelchairs vs. Electric Mobility Scooters

An electric wheelchair is a personal mobility device that usually has six wheels and is steered using a "joystick". Sometimes referred to as a motorized wheelchair, power wheelchair, or just power chairs, they generally offer superior in-home maneuverability, fit almost anywhere and turn on a dime. An electric wheelchair is primarily designed for people who need help getting around indoors.

The power mobility provided by electric wheelchairs has made a dramatic difference in many people's lives. The development of new technology in the industry has made it possible for citizens to obtain smaller, more lightweight and maneuverable motorized wheelchairs for use inside the home allowing people to move about in small places and complete their activities of daily living without being bed-bound or sent to nursing homes.

Medical electric mobility scooters, on the other hand, are personal electric scooters that have either three or four wheels and steer much like a bicycle, using a set of handlebars. Electric scooters are ideal for out-of-home activities, as they glide smoothly and easily over a variety of surfaces. There are even portable motorized scooters that can be stowed in the trunk of your car to take along with you.

Today's electric wheelchairs and electric mobility scooters are easy-to-use, comfortable, safe and reliable.

Mobility is a critical aspect of everyday life. Being mobile enhances a person's ability to learn, interact with others, earn a living and participate in community life.

"Growth of the mobility-impaired community is increasing as the population ages, as the effects of obesity, and other neurological, rheumatoid, and physical ailments impair mobility. In addition, demand for power wheelchairs has grown due to demographics, technology development and consumer awareness."
- National Spinal Cord Injury Association, http://www.spinalcord.org

* Electric Wheelchairs and Electric Mobility Scooters Cost Considerations

Electric wheelchairs and electric mobility scooters are usually available at little or NO cost to you, depending upon your insurance qualifications.

For Medicare coverage consideration, a written prescription for a scooter or power wheelchair must be received by a supplier from a primary care physician or treating practitioner within 30 days of a face-to-face examination.

To see if you qualify for a low cost or no cost electric wheelchair or mobility scooter, contact a professional mobility consultant who will work with your doctor to identify your mobility needs, coordinate your Medicare or insurance benefits and determine the best mobility solution for you.

Don't let physical impairments keep you down. Regain your freedom of mobility and independence with the electric wheelchair or mobility scooter that's right for you.
About The Author

George Dodge of The Scooter Center and The Wheelchair Store can connect you to a Professional Mobility Consultant for a no-pressure, no-obligation mobility consultation to help explore your mobility needs.