Bariatric Wheelchairs – What You Should Know

Bariatric is a term that represents the population of people who are exceedingly obese and who need medical intervention due to their excessive weight. They are generally classified as patients over and above 250 pounds. In the health care setting, bariatric clients are usually addressed separately from the general populace due to their distinct need for a different set of interventions and specialized medical management.

What are Bariatric Wheelchairs?
Bariatiric wheelchairs are designed for bariatric patients who need assistance in moving around. These pieces of equipment provide clients with the ability to take up an independent way of life despite their restrictive condition.

Obese patients basically have special needs that are different from normal-sized people. They also require specialized design considerations when it comes to wheelchairs. Aside from the excessive weight, these mobility aids need to have appropriate capacity for depth, width and length prerequisites.
Wheelchair manufacturers have taken these variables into account. There are in fact numerous types of bariatric wheelchairs in the market today. Each of the styles are modified to meet the unique needs of this population group. Modern bariatric wheelchairs also carry a variety of features, which include durable frames built with advanced welding technology, hardwearing wheels with pneumatic tires, padded upholstery for added comfort, and other extra features.
Manual Bariatric Wheelchairs
Like the regular variety, bariatric wheelchairs also come in manual versions. These wheelchairs are ideal for people who still have the capacity to push the wheels and set the chair in motion with minimal or no assistance.
Manually propelled bariatric wheelchairs also provide a certain degree of exercise to their users. However, other medical conditions – aside from obesity – may get worse because of the added strain created by pushing the wheels. For people with other infirmities, electric bariatric wheelchairs may be more appropriate.
Electric Bariatric Wheelchairs
These wheelchairs are ideal for patients who have cardiovascular disorders or those who lack the upper body strength required to propel a manual bariatric wheelchair. The ability to move around easily by means of a joystick mechanism provides wheelchair-bound obese clients with the chance to perform a number of routine activities.

Wheelchair Selection: How to choose a new wheelchair

Wheelchair Selection: How to choose a new wheelchair

What's the big deal? Wheelchairs look pretty much alike. Right?
Wrong! It's just not that simple. A wheelchair is much more than "looks." There are as many differences in wheelchairs just as there are differences in cars or microwave ovens or... any consumer product.
With wheelchairs it can be even more important. Wheelchairs have strong differences in how they feel, how they fit, how they respond and what they enable us to do.
There are lots of differences in the people who use wheelchairs too. People who use wheelchairs vary in:

• Age: children, young adults and older adults,
• Gender: boys and girls, men and women
• Body type: every body type from muscular to just average to very thin or very overweight.
• Diagnosis or reason for using a wheelchair: some people are too weak or have too little endurance and can actually still still get up and walk in some situations. Others have paralyzed legs and torsos, missing limbs or poor balance and use a wheelchair all the time.
• Activities they want to do in their wheelchair: some people just what to sit, others want all of life's activities without exceptions.
• Places they will use their wheelchair: some people only use a wheelchair at home which is their primary environment. Other people go travel all around the community. Still others push their wheelchairs to the max using them in rugged environments like dodging potholes on city streets, working on a farm or camping in the woods.
• Preference or just "what they like": the same thing that makes some people like a Ford and others a Chevy.

Because people, their abilities and their needs are so different there are many possible combinations between people and mobility equipment. That's part of the challenge... figuring out which kind of wheelchair or seating system is best for each person. For many consumers, there is even another person who figures into these decisions. If a spouse or child or family member will be assisting the person using the wheelchair their needs may need to be considered in the wheelchair selection decision too.
People who buy or get a wheelchair for the first time are usually overwhelmed by their choices. In fact, they are overwhelmed just by the idea of having to use a wheelchair. Some of their concerns are addressed on the New User page. Usually, a wheelchair is not what people have in mind as a way for moving around in life.
The information you will find on the next few pages is about the process of getting a wheelchair. This page will link to other pages and resources on the Internet. Our goal is to give you as much information about the process of getting a wheelchair as possible so you can be an informed consumer. We think that informed consumers make better choices and better decisions. We also think that when consumers know more that it is easier for them to see themselves as "clients who are purchasing products and services."
Clients are people who hire professionals and then ask them to help solve or correct complicated problems. This way of thinking can be a very helpful model to keep in mind when you are preparing to get a new wheelchair. Wheelchair selection is a complicated process and, especially if you are new at it, you will want expert help. It will be a learning process for you but you will learn something every time you get a new wheelchair. It is also important to realize that regardless of expertise, you have the biggest stake in the end result. You will be using the wheelchair on a daily basis for the next 5 years or so. Because you have strongest interest in a good outcome we would like to help you know what to expect when you get advice from the seating and mobility professionals who will work with you.
The professionals in the wheelchair business are:

• people who evaluate you, your body and your daily living needs,
• people who recommend equipment that matches with your needs,
• people who complete the selling, funding and reimbursement transactions (like your insurance company),
• people who make sure that the delivered equipment is fitted exactly to you, and
• people who design, test and manufacture the wheelchairs that people want and need in their everyday lives.

So if you want to know more about this process keep on reading....

Getting a Wheelchair for the first time!

If you are like most people, you will be depending on the most knowledgeable person you know when you go to get that first wheelchair. This might be your sister who is a nurse, or an occupational or physical therapist, or a friend or spouse, or a salesperson at a durable medical equipment store. New users of wheelchairs usually get their first wheelchair in one of these ways. They get a:

• A loaner or hand-me-down chair from someone they know,
• A rental wheelchair from company that contracts with Medicare or their insurance company,
• A prescription from their doctor which they take to a sales person at a medical supply store, or, if they are fortunate, they go to
• A wheelchair clinic with experienced wheelchair people like OTs, PTs and Rehabilitation Technology Suppliers.

The outcome or the end-result in getting a first wheelchair can have a lot of variation:

• Sometimes people have a good experience.
• Sometimes they don't.
• Sometimes first-timers don't even know what to expect from the experience. (It's hard to have expectations when everything is so new!)
• Sometimes professionals know a lot and are really experts.
• Sometimes professionals know a lot, are really experts and they include YOU in the process.

When you are included in the process, then there is a larger chance that the outcome will be a good one. You are included in the process when you are seen as a "client" (someone who is purchasing a service) and the professionals ask you questions about:

• your goals,
• your needs both today and in the short term future,
• your lifestyle,
• your living environments,
• how you plan to use your wheelchair, and
• how you plan to travel as a driver or a passenger in motor vehicles.

When you as a client experience this kind of evaluation you have had the best situation of all.
So... If this is the kind of experience you had the first time you got a wheelchair, count yourself lucky! (Don't loose their phone number!) When it is time to replace your equipment you will have an excellent resource at your disposal. Spending money for this kind of service might seem like an expense to avoid the next time you get a wheelchair but it can actually be money very well spent. Mobility products and services are more expensive and more complicated today. Insurance companies allow replacement chairs less often so you can be stuck with a poor purchase for a long time. Many insurance companies are starting to recognize the value of a good evaluation and are starting to require it a a condition for purchase. A good evaluation can be a huge saving in time and aggravation. You can often prevent a secondary disability like a shoulder problem, a pelvic position problems or a pressure sore when you have a knowledgeable professional working for you.

The Wheelchair Evaluation Process

Since there is so much to learn about getting a wheelchair for the first time, this is a good place to talk more in depth about that process. There is a whole vocabulary of new words that you will start to hear. And it might be helpful to understand a head of time about some parts of the "service delivery" process. "Service delivery" is health care jargon that refers to the way an organization sets up the processes and procedures they will use to get their services delivered to you. Any time you get involved with an organization it is helpful to know a little something about how service delivery works and how to move around in that system.

We have created a page, Wheelchair and Seating Evaluations, that discusses the evaluation process and in particular:

• The Wheelchair Prescription
• The Wheelchair Evaluation Process
• The Evaluation Team
• The Consumer as the Focus
• The Evaluation Summary
• Letter of Medical Necessity or Justification

But, first do this!

Before you take your wheelchair prescription to an evaluation team it will be important for you to think about o the following important questions. As you come up with answers it may also be important to discuss with them with your family. Here they are:

1. Where will I use my wheelchair most?
2. What will I use my wheelchair occasionally?
3. What kinds of activities that I do (or did) everyday are most important to me to get back to doing?
4. How will I get my wheelchair (and myself) from place to place?
5. How much of the day will I be spending in this wheelchair?
6. How will I transfer from the wheelchair to other surfaces?
7. If I will need help with my wheelchair who will that come from and what features about my wheelchair are important to them?
8. How will I get my wheelchair around my neighborhood or yard? What kind of surfaces or slopes are involved?

If you have thought about these questions ahead of time, then you will approach the evaluation process a little differently than most new consumers. On the other hand, it is important that you have a team that takes the time to listen to you. Good Luck!
Here are some additional resources related to choosing a wheelchair that have been found through searching the WWW.

• Choosing a Wheelchair: A guide for optimal independence - a book by Gary Karp
  • Life on Wheels website
  • Purchase this book online
• Independent Reviews - reviews of different wheelchairs by knowledgeable and "real" end users.
• Informed Consumer's Guide to Wheelchair Selection - from ABLEDATA but written in 1994.
• Slide show "Development of consumer-based criteria for evaluation of assistive devices" - by Batavia and Hammer (a 18 K pdf download file).
• The Wheelchair Selection Guide: How to Use the ANSI/RESNA Wheelchair Standards to Buy a Wheelchair - a book by Axelson, Minkel, & Chesney - read the exerpts posted on WheelchairNet or purchase the entire book.
• Wheelchair Selection - from the Spinal Cord Injury Network at UAB.
• Wheelchair Selection: An ALS patient guide - by Marilyn Trail, OTR, BCN and Peggy Ingels, PT
• Wheelchair Selection and Training: Teaching and Guiding Practitioners and Consumers - a book review of 5 books on wheelchair selection by Brian Dudgeon, PhD.
• Wheelchair evaluation check list and Comparison Matrix - a resource located on WheelchairNet.
• What does it mean if your rehabilitation professional has Certification in Assistive Technology?

Get Expert Advice Before Buying a Wheelchair

by Barbara Twardowski on July 1, 2011 - 7:14pm

QUEST Vol. 18, No. 3

• 
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I have buyer’s remorse.
Like most people, my closet contains a few items I never should have bought.
A paper-thin broom skirt that was shredded by my wheelchair tires the first time I wore it. A bright red handbag that lacks a shoulder strap, forcing me to choose between clutching the accessory or holding onto my wheelchair every time I exit the ramp of my van.
Until now, the majority of my retail mistakes were minor infractions — a lipstick in the wrong shade or an uneaten frozen dinner entree.
My newest purchase can’t be hidden in the back of a closet or in the freezer. It’s with me every waking moment.
I regret rushing to buy my new power wheelchair.
No, it definitely was not an impulse purchase. After five years of daily use, my old chair was worn down and falling apart. Coils in the seat were poking me, one wheel didn’t turn properly, and the chair was no longer dependable. My doctor said there were better choices, and I should get a new power wheelchair.
Naturally, I contacted the vendor who sold and serviced my older chair. He spent time assessing my needs. We talked about a chair that would work with the EZ Lock wheelchair restraint system in my car, which allows me to be the driver or a passenger in the vehicle. He focused on the swelling in my legs and how I reposition my body throughout the day. I was concerned about the size of the chair, as my master bathroom doesn’t have much turning space.
What I regret is not being more informed before I bought the chair. I wish I had taken the time to research the choices, looked at the features available on the company’s website and talked to other wheelchair owners.
I wish I had test driven several models — especially a standing chair. There might be better ways to lift my legs and elevate them, instead of tilting back, which I don’t like. (It’s like sitting in a dentist chair; you can’t do anything in that position.) Perhaps I should have consulted more experts and gotten a second opinion.
Buying a power chair is similar to buying a new car. The manufacturers have fancy brochures and offer a variety of optional accessories. Some of the power chairs cost as much as, or even more than, a car. If you wait to buy a new car until yours isn’t running, there’s an urgency to the process. If your wheelchair is no longer functioning, you’ll also have to hurry and get another one.
As your physical needs change and the age of your wheelchair increases, it’s a wise idea to discuss your situation with your health care team so you are an informed consumer. For those registered with MDA, an MDA clinic is a good place to go for consultations and referrals.
The bottom line is: When the time comes to replace an old wheelchair, look for experts who have been trained to guide you through the options.

Some occupational and physical therapists specialize in wheelchair fitting and seating; your MDA clinic physician can help you locate one in your area.

ATP (assistive technology professional)

The Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America, or RESNA, is a nonprofit professional society that certifies assistive technology professionals (ATPs). RESNA members serve people with disabilities who are seeking technology to maximize functionality in the home, school, workplace and community.
“Assistive technology” encompasses such things as manual and power wheelchairs, communication devices, orthotics, hearing aids, reading machines, portable ramps, prosthetics and more. An assistive technology professional is trained to analyze the needs of individuals with disabilities, assist in selecting appropriate equipment and educate the consumer on properly using the specific equipment.
ATPs come from a variety of fields. They include: physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, engineers, educators, rehab counselors, suppliers, computer access specialists, technicians and more.
A certified ATP meets an internationally accepted standard of knowledge in assistive technology. The certification process includes work/education eligibility, passing a 200-item exam and an ongoing commitment to practice at the highest ethical standard.
If you’re wondering how a speech-language pathologist can be an expert in wheelchair seating — she probably is not. ATP certification is designed to give professionals a broad base of knowledge and make them aware of services and choices for clients with complex rehab needs, including when to make a referral.
“One prescription impacts another device,” says Anjali Weber, director of ATP certification for RESNA. “The joystick that controls a wheelchair — if supplied with the right electronics — can be used to turn off the lights in your home or operate your computer.”
ATPs take a “holistic approach” to determining client needs, says Weber. “When you buy a new wheelchair, how will you transport it? How will it work in your home?” No one is an expert in everything, and ATPs understand you may need a referral to someone with a different specialization.

SMS (seating and mobility specialist)

RESNA introduced a new certification in March 2010: seating and mobility specialist or SMS. The speciality credential, which builds upon the baseline ATP certification, is meant for those elite rehabilitation professionals with advanced knowledge and experience in seating and mobility.
SMS-certified therapists work with complex rehabilitation clients, comprehend disease progression, are proficient with custom seating, and are knowledgeable about wheeled mobility technology and electronics. Before individuals can take the 165-question exam, they must have 1,000 hours of in-person consumer experience in seating and mobility, and be an ATP in good standing.

Consumer beware

Unfortunately, there are people who sell medical equipment who have limited knowledge or are simply unethical. If they unscrupulously sell you a chair that ultimately doesn’t meet your needs, you may have no recourse but to keep it. But if you use an ATP and have a problem, RESNA has a process to review violations of their standards.
Amy Morgan, a physical therapist and ATP who works for Permobil, teaches advanced classes for clinicians and suppliers. Class topics range from “Wheelchair Standers: Stand for Function!” to “Neurological Function and Dysfunction — Understanding the Implications for Seating and Mobility.”
When shopping for a wheelchair, Morgan says, it’s important for people with neuromuscular diseases to see both a supplier and a clinician (therapist). Always work with a physical or occupational therapist, and make sure he or she is a practicing clinician and not someone who works on the supply (wheelchair sales) side, Morgan advises. Look for professionals who are ATP certified.
Consider everything you want the chair to do. For example: I would like to reach into a cabinet from my chair. I’d like a joystick that works better with my tremor or has a more ergonomic design for my hand. I’d like to kick my feet up when my legs swell and hurt. What are the options for that?
Involve as many people in the evaluation as is reasonable. “The more brains the better,” says Morgan.
Be mindful of the literature that describes a wheelchair. Morgan once worked with a mother who was comparing two different brands of chairs. One said the turning radius was 40 inches and the other said 22 inches. Morgan knew that the two chairs were nearly identical in the way they could turn. Puzzled, she did a bit of investigating by calling the manufacturers and asking more questions. She discovered one manufacturer was describing the space required to turn while the other was describing the full turning radius.
“The selection of a wheelchair is a collaboration,” says Morgan, who urges consumers to take wheelchairs home for a test drive. “You have to be an advocate for yourself.” She recommends joining the Users First Alliance, an education and advocacy group for wheelchair users, clinicians and suppliers.
“People who have neuromuscular diseases need to work with professionals who understand the progression of their disease,” says RESNA’s Anjali Weber. She notes there’s a big difference between durable medical equipment like a walker and the complex technology required by people with increasing muscle weakness and paralysis.
“If you work with someone who is certified, you should receive better service from beginning to end,” says Weber.
To find an assistive technology professional in your area, see the resource list How to find an ATP in InfoQuest.The Best Online Wheelchair Store is http://www.frontlinemobility.comhttp://www.frontlinemobility.com
Barbara and Jim Twardowski (RN, CMSRN) are a husband-and-wife freelance-writing team and frequent Quest contributors. They live in Mandeville, La. Barbara has Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.

Military dog gets new home, wheelchair

By Matt Orr

Stars and Stripes

Published: February 18, 2011

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Irano is an 11-year-old former military working dog who was released from his duties as a patrol and explosives dog after he was diagnosed with Degenerative Lumbo Sacral Stenosis by veterinary staff at the Okinawa Veterinary Treatment Facility.

Matt Orr/Stars and Stripes

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KADENA AIR BASE, Okinawa — The first thing you see when you walk into the home of Army Sgt. Jeffrey Souder and his wife, Jeanne, is the large, friendly German shepherd Irano who greets you.
Then you notice the area rugs -- everywhere.
“It’s so that Irano can move around the house more easily,” said Souder, the noncommissioned officer in charge of the Okinawa Veterinary Treatment Facility who adopted Irano about a year ago.
Irano is an 11-year-old former military working dog who was released from his duties as a patrol and explosives dog after he was diagnosed with Degenerative Lumbo Sacral Stenosis by the veterinary staff.
Irano has lost nearly all the mobility in his hind legs and now uses his front legs as his only means of moving himself around, hence the rugs that cover the floors.
“It gives him more traction for his front legs so as to make his moving around easier in here,” said Souder, who is in charge of the health of the 48 military working dogs assigned on Okinawa.
Souder said the Air Force Kennel had been trying without success to find someone to adopt Irano.
“If I hadn’t taken him, he more than likely would have been put to sleep,” he said, rubbing Irano’s head affectionately. “They have put their time in, so they deserve a good retirement like everybody else.”

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In order to give Irano more mobility, Souder built him a wheelchair of sorts. Searching online, he found a design to suit Irano’s needs.
“It took about 10 to 12 hours to build it,” he said, once he found two lightweight wheels.
The chair is comprised of the wheels, a PVC frame and a harness sewn by Jeanne that hangs in the middle to support Irano’s rear section and allows his legs to be mostly off the ground.
“The hardest part is putting on the harness,” said Souder, as Irano patiently allowed him to fit the harness to the rear of his body.
“He gets so excited to get outside,” said Souder after he snapped the harness into the frame of the wheelchair. “There is still some tweaking to do to it, like add some cushioning on the frame and to also lengthen it a little so that it sits more on top of Irano’s shoulders.”
Irano races as fast as he can to socialize with the neighbors’ dogs when the back gate is opened.
“Irano’s such a lover and loves being outside,” said Jeanne Souder, who watched as her husband walked alongside Irano in the backyard. “He always looks like he has a smile on his face and is so happy. When it starts getting dark outside, he’ll go and sit by the front door and wait for Daddy to come home from work.”
For information on adopting a military working dog, visit www.frontlinemobility.comor contact the Okinawa Veterinary Treatment Facility.

13 shot dead in north Mpls.; 12-year-old best friend wounded

BOY 13, shot dead in north Mpls.; 12-year-old best friend wounded

• Article by: PAUL WALSH and MATT MCKINNEY , Star Tribune Staff Writers
• Updated: August 25, 2011 - 1:45 PM

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Kevin Funchie, the father of 13-year-old murder victim Rayjon Gomez, spoke to the media outside the family's northside residence Thursday, Aug. 25, 2011. A night earlier Gomez and a 12 year-old boy were gunned down while riding on a bike together near the 1600 block of Russell Ave. in Minneapolis, MN. Standing next to Funchie are family members Katherine Funchie, middle, an aunt, and Gwen Funchie, the boy's grandmother.

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Boyhood friends ages 13 and 12 riding their bikes were shot Wednesday night, the older one fatally, and police are investigating whether this violence is connected to other recent bloodshed involving young people in the city.
About 9 p.m., police found one of the boys in the street near 16th and Upton Avenues N., Sgt. Stephen McCarty said Thursday morning.
Before the victim was taken to North Memorial Medical Center in Robbinsdale with non-life threatening injuries, he told police there might be another victim nearby, McCarty said.
After a comprehensive search, which included a police canine unit and a State Patrol helicopter, a second boy was found in the 1600 block of Russell Avenue. This victim, in a yard next to a house, was dead at the scene, McCarty said.
No arrests have been made, and authorities have yet to release the boys' identities, ages and hometowns.
McCarty said the boy who survived is "stable. I think he's going to be OK."
"You've got to wonder" whether the shooting of the boys is related to other gunfire that has targeted juveniles of late, McCarty said. "You've got to look at the possibility, and we are looking into it."
Police Chief Timothy Dolan has scheduled a City Hall news conference for Thursday afternoon in the wake of the shootings. On Saturday, Quantell Braxton, 14, was shot to death on the North Side.
Neighborhood activists are organizing a vigil at 6 p.m. Thursday at Lyndale Avenue and West Broadway in an effort to stem the violence.
Ron Edwards, a North Side activist and a former member of the Police Community Relations Council, said Thursday that the boy who died was 13-year-old Ray'Jon Gomez of Minneapolis.
The boy was "shot in the side and bled to death" after running and trying to hide from the shooter, according to Edwards, who said he spoke afterward with the victim's family and members of law enforcement.
Edwards, who said he has known the dead boy's family for many years, said "no one has a clue" about what led to the boys being shot. He said the shots came from adults in a vehicle.
A cousin of Gomez said the boy and two of his friends were riding their bikes near 17th and Russell Avenues North, when words were exchanged with someone and shots were fired.
The relative added that Gomez rode away, then jumped off his bike and ran down an alley, before starting to retrace his path and collapsing face-down between two homes in the 1600 block of Russell.
Lisa Church, of Minneapolis, at North Memorial with her wounded son, 12-year-old Deondre Timberlake, said Deondre and Ray'Jon were best friends who spent every day together.
Church said Deondre's blood pressure shot up when she broke the news to her son that Ray'Jon was dead.
"He's not taking this good at all," Church said of her son. "He's just been having nightmares. He just keeps calling for the boys."
Church said Deondre was shot in the back, and doctors have decided not to remove the bullet because it's so near his spine.
Edwards said the neighbors who milled about afterward Wednesday night were "angry and frustrated" by the mounting violence.
"The emotion is strong and very sweeping ... when you see children gunned down, happening here, and you don't have any suspects, that's really not healthy. Then people lose confidence that anyone really cares."
Two members of the City Council's committee dealing with public safety said police have yet to brief them on the shootings.
"I'm stunned, and I haven't gotten an update yet," vice chairman Cam Gordon said. "It looks like we're making progress, and then we have serious incidents that mean this is a problem we've got to keep watching."
Council President Barbara Johnson said the tight cluster of recent shootings suggests a connection. "There's ongoing rivalries and gang activities that police monitor, and it heats up all the time.  I wouldn't be surprised to see if that's behind it," she said.
Last year, the city tried unsuccessfully to get federal money to pay former gang members and others to act as street peacemakers -- trying to deter likely perpetrators and cool emotions when there's a threat of retaliatory violence.
Johnson said she's worried that underlying social factors are contributing to the crime.
"As I get older, I am increasingly more discouraged about the future for many of our young people," she said. "Too many are unparented, too many are parents themselves.  It's too many going down that road."
Police say that anyone with information about Wednesday's case should call them at 612-692-TIPS (8477).
During a neighborhood prayer vigil Tuesday night in a Walgreens parking lot in north Minneapolis, bullets hit a 19-year-old woman standing nearby and grazed the face of a man among those praying for peace, said police and witnesses. The woman was critically hurt but expected to survive, McCarty said.
The vigil came just a few days after Braxton was found shot in the street several blocks away.
There have been no arrests in either instance on the North Side.

Power Chairs And Power Wheelchairs Are Routinely Reimbursed. Just Follow The Step By Step Procedures

Power Chairs And Power Wheelchairs Are Routinely Reimbursed. Just Follow The Step By Step Procedures
Medicare requirements are quite strict and they do change occasionally, so it is always best to work with experienced professionals, such as your medical doctor, if he is familiar with the Medicare procedures. Also, you will want to engage the representative of the medical supply store, online or offline, who specializes in working with Medicare and following their requirements.
Browsing the online and offline stores for the best candidate power chair for you
Fortunately, all your research can be done on the internet directly from home for your convenience. There are several stores that offer a large selection of mobility scooters and powerchairs that you can choose from. After you pick the type of your powerchair, call the store for an consultation about the further procedure. If you are determined to get your Medicare wheelchair reimbursement make sure that you are working with Medicare "enrolled" and possibly Medicare "participating" store. Medicare "participating" stores are approved by Medicare and have agreed to give you fixed prices on power wheelchairs. Medicare "enrolled" stores are also approved by Medicare and can charge you as much as 15% over and above the Medicare approved price.
Medical Mobility Evaluation visit with your doctor to obtain medical necessity certificate
Next step will be to get a special, medical mobility evaluation visit with your physician. He will put together the "medical necessity certificate" for a power wheel chair. This is a document signed and dated by your doctor, stating the reasons why you must receive a power wheelchair and why you qualify. The reasons are itemized and include:

• inability to walk within your house and do the basic activities such as personal hygiene, cooking, trips to the restroom, without help
• using a cane, a walker, or a rollator should be insufficient for you to accomplish these basic activities
• you must be unable to use a mobility scooter for the same purpose. This could be because of the upper arm weakness that would preclude you from steering a mobility scooter using your arms. You must be unable to drive a mobility scooter.
• you should still have sufficient strength to be able to get on and off the power wheelchair and to operate the armrest-positioned joystick
• you should have sufficient mental capacity to safely operate a power wheelchair
• finally, you must have the desire to operate your own power wheelchair

These are the main requirements but there will be other requirements. You may want to familiarize yourself with the "medical necessity certificate" before you have it be filled and signed by your doctor during the medical mobility evaluation visit.
The paperwork route
The paperwork must be signed and dated by your doctor and must then go back to the online or offline power wheelchair store where one copy is kept. Another copy must be submitted to Medicare. It may take a few months before you will hear back from Medicare about the success of your Medicare power chair application and the reimbursement details.
Now that you know all about Medicare reimbursement procedures step-by-step, check out some Medicare power wheelchair brands, and different types of Medicare electric wheelchairs that you can get reimbursed for by Medicare. Be sure to follow the reimbursement procedures to the T and you could get a real bargain on the way to your better mobility.

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http://www.flickr.com/photos/onlinewheelchairstore/         www.frontlinemobility.com

Selecting a Electric Wheelchair or Mobility Powerchair

One of the most difficult decisions for a person who is mobility impaired is if and when to pursue power mobility. Everyone I know wants to preserve his or her independence as long as possible. Some prospective users may be frightened of being made more conspicuous, while others may fear that reliance on a motorized device will hasten weakness or amount to a surrender to a disabling condition. Compared to manual mobility, power mobility is more expensive, more difficult to transport, and, by being more mechanically complex, has more systems that can break down. Before you consider a motorized device, it is critical that the factors that are limiting your walking or manual propulsion are understood. You might be able to reverse the cause of your limitation with proper medical care. For example, if last year you were able to walk a mile easily, but this year you feel pain in your legs after 100 yards, you might have a nerve injury or a vascular problem that is amenable to treatment. I am uncomfortable recommending equipment if I don't understand the cause of the problem. Secondly, once the problem is understood, it is valuable to comprehend the expected duration and course of the problem. For example, a person with a walking problem because of a hip replacement would normally be expected to improve in a short course of time (weeks) and might only need the temporary assistance of a simple manual wheelchair. Someone with a similar problem because of a rapidly progressive course of multiple sclerosis might need a fully adjustable power-base wheelchair to not only take care of current needs, but to take care of future needs as they arise. There are three major power options with some variations: (Click on your product choice to start begin shopping.) Power Scooters Power Wheelchairs - Centered on Modification of Manual Chair Designs Power Based Wheelchairs Power Scooters In general, the least expensive power devices are scooters. Scooters typically have motors in the back and are steered with a tiller (looks and acts like the handlebar on a bicycle). Because of their conformation, scooters have a relatively wide turning radius. This means that they require more room and effort to maneuver in closed or tight environments. If you choose a scooter, ask about the turning radius to make sure that it will work in its intended environment. Power scooters usually come with a padded captain's swivel chair, although bucket seats are available on some models. Three-wheeled scooters are most common. Four-wheeled scooters can traverse more rugged terrain, but are so large that they are impractical in most indoor settings. A feature available in many scooter product lines is power seat elevation. This can aid in transferring to different surface heights and in improving reach (bed, accessible toilet, low shelves). Compared to other powered options, most scooters are relatively easy to disassemble for storage in a car or trunk. Depending on the scooter, the heaviest portion weighs about 50 pounds. A perceived advantage for scooters is their appearance, which looks different than that of wheelchairs. Some people associate the look of a wheelchair with a kind weakness or helpless dependency and therefore prefer the styling of scooters. There are three significant limitations to scooters besides their relatively limited maneuverability and requirement of some level of upper limb strength, dexterity, and range of motion: 1. They are difficult to sit down in and rise from if you cannot stand and transfer independently. 2. They lack the capacity to allow modification of seating to accommodate postural deformities (i.e. contractures). 3. They have very little adjustability to change as the user's needs change. They cannot be transformed into joystick-controlled devices, cannot have advanced electronics installed, and cannot be upgraded to accept power tilt-in-space or low shear power recline. The typical scooter user can still walk but has limited endurance because of cardiac, pulmonary, rheumatologic, or neuromuscular disease (i.e. congestive heart failure, emphysema, rheumatoid arthritis, or stable multiple sclerosis). Those without the ability to walk (i.e. those with a complete spinal cord injury) or with poor trunk stability are usually better served with a power wheelchair. Power Wheelchairs Centered on Modification of Manual Designs This category of power devices encompasses power wheelchairs that have been designed around adding a motor and drive wheels to existing manual chair frame. Most of these wheelchairs employ an X-frame seen on standard folding chairs; a few borrow rigid frame designs. By their very nature, the seating systems of these chairs are integrated into the base of the chair (as with manual chairs). And, as with manual chairs, a full line of seat cushions and backs are available to add in pressure relief and posture support. Most of these chairs can be disassembled to be transported by car, but the heaviest parts weigh approximately 60 to 80 pounds, which is not practical for many people. Depending on the design of the chair and the car, the batteries may be taken off, and the frame folded and bumped into the back seat of the car without actually lifting the frame entirely off the ground. Although these chairs are not the most rugged or most powerful, they provide reliable, economical mobility with a smaller turning radius than found in scooters. They are appropriate for indoor and outdoor use in mild-to-moderate terrain. They are typically equipped with swing-away footrests, which can ease access to the chair, and detachable armrests, which can aid in side-to-side transfers. Power seating options, such as tilt-in-space, power recline and seat elevation, are not available for these chairs. Power-Base Wheelchairs Power-base wheelchairs are in the next category. A cardinal feature of these chairs is that the seating system is separate from the base. This means that, within certain limits, a variety of seating systems can be attached to a particular base. The seating system might have tilt-in-space or recline, or it might have the seat-to-back angle opened up to accommodate a specific user. (Tilt-in-space is a motorized system that allows pivoting of the whole seat backwards and forwards in a manner similar to leaning back on the rear legs of kitchen chair. Recline refers to keeping the seating surface stationary while the chair back moves. Power base chairs are more rugged and stable than comparable collapsible chairs. Power base chairs can either have rear-, mid- or front-wheel drive. This refers to where along the base of the chair the motorized wheels are located. Rear-wheel drive chairs tend to feel the most stable.They also tend to allow the greatest range of power seating options. Mid-wheel drive chairs put the drive wheels more toward the center of the chair. The main effect of this is to decrease the turning radius. The smaller the turning radius, the easier it is to maneuver in crowded environments. In mid-wheel drive power chairs, the weight of the user sits more directly over the drive wheels, which can result in increased traction. However, many mid-wheel drive chairs can feel a bit tippy during the start and stop motion, especially when driving down inclines. Front-wheel drive chairs are less common than the other two options. They allow a small turning radius on a stable base, and depending on the model, offer a full range of seating options. The world of wheelchairs changes quickly, and the discussion above is meant as an outline only. There are at least a few chairs that don't easily fit in the schema that I have described. For example, the Quickie P200 is a rigid frame power wheelchair that can be disassembled and offers a rugged frame, narrow turning radius and high performance. The Viva by Electric Mobility is a power-base chair that can be disassembled. The consumer is cautioned to evaluate each option closely. If you have questions about specific products, contact our professionals at 877-655-1181.

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American Airlines Wheelchair Information

How to Get a Wheelchair on American Airlines By Elizabeth DeHoff, eHow Contributor Advance planning is the key to smooth and successful air travel for American Airlines passengers who need a wheelchair for all or part of the journey. If you inform the airline of your needs from the beginning, you'll have a much better chance of a smooth travel experience. .Difficulty: Moderately Easy Instructions.1 Book your ticket on American Airlines' website (www.aa.com), through American's toll-free number (1-800-433-7300), via a third-party website such as Travelocity.com or with a travel agent. 2 If you book your ticket on American Airlines you may select a wheelchair assistance option during the booking process. Choose the option that applies to your situation: "Passenger can walk but requires wheelchair for distance to/from gate"; "Passenger can walk but needs assistance up/down stairs"; or "Passenger cannot walk and needs assistance to seat on plane." When you select one of these options, American Airlines will make a notation in your Passenger Name Record that should ensure that you receive the degree of assistance you require. If you book by phone, inform the reservation agent of your special-assistance needs. 3 Third-party websites such as Expedia.com and travel agents should pass along your wheelchair request to American Airlines, but you should call American Airlines to confirm that it has received your request. 4 Collapsible wheelchairs (manual and battery-operated) are routinely accommodated as carry-on baggage, space permitting. American Airlines recommends that you speak to the gate agent at least 30 minutes before boarding to arrange pre-boarding and storage of your wheelchair. Wheelchairs (including battery-operated, noncollapsible models) may also be checked at the curb for gate delivery. It is particularly important for passengers checking wheelchairs to check in at least one hour before departure to ensure that the wheelchairs will be transported in the cabin and not in the cargo hold. American Airlines does not charge checked-baggage fees for wheelchairs. 5 If you do not have a wheelchair or plan to check your wheelchair but will require wheelchair assistance at the airport, request a wheelchair from the skycap or check-in agent. If you will require an extra-wide wheelchair, it is especially important to call the airline in advance to make arrangements. 6 Don't take chances: Call the airline at 1-800-433-7300 at least 48 hours before your flight (the sooner the better) and ask to speak with a special assistance coordinator to confirm your wheelchair needs and any special requests such as bulkhead seating; this may reduce the chances of miscommunication, which is always a possibility when dealing with a major airline. If your flight is rescheduled or you are bumped for any reason, call the airline again and make certain your wheelchair request is keep in your reservation. .

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Installing a Harmar Wheelchair and Scooter Lift

Step 1: All outside platform lifts require a hitch. Click here to view our hitch guide to find out what hitch you have, what hitch you need and other hitch information. Step 2: Once your hitch is installed, you need to measure the height of your hitch from the ground. The specific distance required is listed on the product page of each hitch type. Most require the hitch to be 12" to 14” off the ground. If your hitch is higher or lower than the required distance, you can purchase an accessory known as a height adjustment bar. These bars allow you to effectively raise or lower the hitch receptacle to insure that the platform can function appropriately and does not “bottom out” when you are driving on an incline. Step 3: Make sure you order the appropriate hitch adaptor so that the vehicle lift you select will work with the hitch installed on your vehicle. Some lifts work standard with Class II hitches and others work standard with Class III hitches. However, ALL outside hitches sold at SpinLife can work with either Class II or Class III hitches as long as you purchase the appropriate hitch adaptor. Step 4: To insure full access to your trunk or vehicle lift, order the swing-away option (available on most power platform lifts). This hitch adaptor allows the lift to swing out of the way when the scooter or power wheelchair is NOT on the lift. Step 5: Now, for powered outside lifts, determine whether you want to use a rechargeable battery-pack option (available only on Silver Star Lifts) or have the lift wired directly to your car battery. This is not difficult, and can be performed by any company that rents trailers or even by your auto dealership at minimal cost. Your lift will come complete with the appropriate wiring harness Step 6: Time to install your lift! This is the really easy part…just slide your lift into the hitch, use the hitch pin to secure the lift, and attach it to the power source if necessary. You are on your way. Installing an Inside Boom Lift Step 1: Get acquainted with the three elements of Boom lifts: The base unit which is bolted to the floor of your trunk or cargo area, usually in the corner on the passenger side. This is not difficult and can be performed by your auto dealer or a trusted mechanic. The vertical pole, which slides into the base unit. This pole can be cut to size for use in a van or SUV situation. The boom arm, which contains the motor. This mounts on top of the vertical pole. Step 2: All inside lifts require a power source. Determine whether you want to use a rechargeable battery-pack option (available only on Silver Star Lifts) or have the lift wired directly to your car battery. This is not difficult, and can be performed by any company that rents trailers or even by your auto dealership at minimal cost. Your lift will come complete with the appropriate wiring harness. No wiring is required with a battery pack, and you can even upgrade to a charger that plugs into a “cigarette lighter” adapter in your car and charges your lift while you drive. No need to ever remove the battery pack for recharging Step 3: All Boom lifts can lift your scooter or power wheelchair with either the seat attached or not attached. Either way, you will receive a Docking Device that attached to the seat post of your vehicle. A standard docking device requires that you remove the seat before lifting the base with the boom arm. A “C-arm” docking device will allow you to leave the seat on the scooter or power wheelchair. Be sure to indicate which docking device you prefer during the checkout process. Step 4: Time to lift! Use the handy corded controller to push the button and lower the strap toward your power wheelchair or scooter. Attach the end of the strap to the docking device and hit the “up” button. For manual swing booms, you will need to push your item into the trunk of cargo area. Some boom lifts have two motors and both lift the item, and then swing it automatically into your vehicle. For trunks, you will now need to remove the boom arm and vertical pole and store them in your trunk alongside the item so that the trunk lid can close. Installing an Inside Platform Lift Step 1: All inside platform lifts require a power source. Determine whether you want to use a rechargeable battery-pack option (available only on Silver Star Backpacker Lifts) or have the lift wired directly to your car battery. This is not difficult, and can be performed by any company that rents trailers or even by your auto dealership at minimal cost. Your lift will come complete with the appropriate wiring harness. No wiring is required with a battery pack, and you can even upgrade to a charger that plugs into a “cigarette lighter” adapter in your car and charges your lift while you drive. No need to ever remove the battery pack for recharging. Step 2: Inside Platform lifts can be installed to the mounting hardware for the third row of seating in most SUVs or mini-vans, and require no drilling. We can provide modification kits for SUVs where the third row of seats stores in the floor of the vehicle. We’ll require your vehicle make, model, and year at the time of purchase and will automatically include any modification kits necessary for your specific installation. Step 2: That’s it! You are ready to use the corded controller for easy one button operation. Push the button and the lift will move outward, and then lower to the ground. Ride your scooter or power wheelchair onto the platform, secure with the straps, and push the button to store your unit in your cargo area.
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Information on Vehicle and Suv Wheelchair and Scooter Lifts and carriers

Vehicle lifts are a handy technology - affordable, adaptable, and practical - with styles, features and options that can create the perfect match between you, your mobility product and your vehicle.
Below you will the find the important questions that need to be taken into consideration when selecting your lift.

1. Should I carry my mobility device inside or outside of my vehicle?

This depends on your vehicle type, your mobility device type and your personal preference.

 

2. I want an inside lift. Should I pick a boom or platform version?

Boom interior lifts resemble a small crane that lifts the scooter or power wheelchair via a reinforced strap, and mount in the rear cargo areas of station wagons, minivans, and SUVs, as well as in a side-entry location on minivans. Further, boom lifts can be used in trunks on sedans via a quick-release base where a compact power wheelchair or scooter lifts into the trunk, then the boom is removed and stowed, allowing the trunk lid to close.

Interior platform lifts allow you to place and secure the scooter or power wheelchair onto a platform that, at the touch of a button, lifts upward, then slides inward on tracks, stowing the power wheelchair or scooter inside the vehicle. Beyond keeping the mobility product secure within the vehicle interior platform lifts also have no equipment outside the vehicle, retaining the vehicle's standard length and appearance. Most interior platform lifts mount using existing securement points within the vehicle so no holes in the vehicle are required.

 

3. How do I know what type of hitch I have on my vehicle?

 

4. Is my vehicle compatible with the lift I want?

Please call our experts at 1-877-655-1181 with your exact vehicle information. We’ll research the options and present you with a list of possible vehicle lifts that can work to meet your needs.  

5. Can I install the lift myself or do I need professional installation?

Your Wheelchair Lift can Be installed by a person with Basic Mechanial Knowledge!www.frontlinemobility.com

How To select a Rollator / Roliing Walker

A rollator is a type of wheeled walker with brakes that is designed to support upper-body weight and help people with walking challenges enjoy greater mobility and avoid fatigue. Unlike traditional medical walkers that need to be lifted with each step, rollators glide easily across smooth indoor and outdoor surfaces, and can be customized with a host of options that allow for comfort and convenience. If you are considering a purchase, first talk with your healthcare provider and seek counsel on models and components that best accommodate your size, needs and lifestyle. Here are purchase considerations to discuss and evaluate: •Frame Type. You will find frames built with either steel or aluminum. Steel is a stronger, heavier material than aluminum and is designed to support greater body weight. Though, aluminum frames are lighter and more easily pushed for those weighing under 200 pounds. •Number and Size of Wheels. Rollators come in three- and four-wheeled designs. Three-wheeled models are more maneuverable around corners and in tight spaces. Models with four wheels are more stable and easier to push. Wheel size is another consideration. If you are planning to spend a lot of time outdoors and on uneven surfaces, choose a model with larger wheels. Small wheels are designed for indoor purposes on flat surfaces. •Handle Adjustment. Choose a model that allows you to adjust the handles to an appropriate height for your size. Some designs allow a greater range of adjustment than others so be sure to take a “test drive” before purchasing to ensure comfort and proper fit. •Brake System. Your brakes need to be easy to reach and appropriately responsive for safety. Pressure brakes are easy to use for many individuals because when someone exerts weight or leans on the frame, the brakes engage and stop forward movement. For pressure brakes, the weight of the user is a consideration because a petite individual may not be able to apply enough pressure on the frame for the brakes to respond and a heavier person may cause the brakes to engage too often. Cable brakes, similar to those found on bicycles, are another option. The user squeezes the breaks with both hands and the wheels instantly stop. There are also one-handed cable brake systems. Reverse braking is another option where the rollator's brakes are locked at all times unless they are manually released by squeezing the brake handles. In addition to a range of stylish designs and colors, you can outfit your wheeled walker with a host of accessories including a built-in seat, seat back, cup holder, baskets, hanging tote bags, cane holder, oxygen tank holder and other features.www.frontlinemobility.com The Best online Wheelchair,Scooter,and Liftchair Storewww.frontlinemobility.com

Wheelchairs | Electric Mobility Scooters | Electric Wheelchairs | Lifts

There are many different vehicle lifts to choose from depending on your vehicle, your mobility device and your personal preference. Named for where the mobility device is stored (not for the location of the lift on the vehicle), all vehicle lifts are categorized as either an Outside or Inside variety. See more information about the types below. 1. Outside Lifts Outside platform lifts all mount on a hitch on the outside of the vehicle. Depending on the model, lifts attach to a Class I, Class II or Class III hitch receiver. Exterior lifts are a great choice because they don't consume any space within the vehicle, preserving maximum cargo room and passenger seating. Manual Platform Lifts Provide the most economical solution. Are available in steel or aluminum Most fold up against the car when not in use. Use “tie-down” straps to secure the scooter or power chair. Require some manual effort to release ramp, so they may not be the best choice for those with limited strength or dexterity. Manual platform lifts do not swing out of the way for trunk access. Require a Class II or III hitch. Read the Hitch Guide now. Power Platform Lifts Power platform lifts require no physical labor to operate and automatically secure the device with a hold-down bar or retractable straps. These lifts are automatically folded against the vehicle when not in use and most offer a "swing-away" option for trunk access. Can be wired to the car battery or choose the free battery pack. Most require a Class II or Class III hitch. Click here for more Hitch Information. 2. Inside Lifts Interior vehicle lifts are increasingly popular, allowing a power wheelchair or scooter to be transported inside a car, truck, minivan, or SUV. The foremost benefit of an interior lift is that it protects your mobility product from weather and potential road hazards, a definite plus for those living in severe weather climates. Further, interior lifts can be mounted in the rear cargo section of vehicles, or in the side door of a minivan for easy user transfers and operation. Inside Boom Lifts Act as a small crane to lift the device via a reinforced strap, and place it into the rear cargo area of vehicles, the side-entry location on mini-vans, or the bed of a pick-up truck. Can be used to load a compact power wheelchair or scooter into the trunk of some sedans. Use with vehicle trunks is limited by the size of the mobility product and the trunk size, and the seat typically needs to beremoved during stowing. Require the use of the C-arm docking device to leave the seat on. Can be wired to the car battery or choose the free battery pack. (Battery Packs are available on Pride Silver Star Lifts.) Generally require at least 30” of headroom. Inside Platform Lifts Offer a platform for the power chair or scooter that, at the touch of a button, lifts upward, slides inward on tracks and stows the power wheelchair or scooter inside the vehicle. Keep the mobility device secure within the vehicle and out of the weather and has no equipment outside the vehicle. Mount using existing securement points within the vehicle - rear seat mounts or seatbelt bolt mounts - so no holes in the vehicle are required. Are available for SUVs and vans, including mini-vans. Must either be wired to the car battery or use a battery pack.Online Wheelchair Store www.frontlinemobility.com

People who benefit from having a scooter for mobility

People who benefit from having a scooter for mobility include people with multiple sclerosis, mild cerebral palsy, severe forms of arthritis. The elderly and stroke survivors also find that scooters help get from here to there without using a product that looks like medical equipment!
With more than 40 scooter models to choose from, how do you choose the right scooter for your needs? It's kind of like shopping for a car. You know what you need to use the car for, so that helps you to choose which car to buy. The same is true for a scooter.
Here is an easy checklist to help you decide which is the right scooter for you!
Your weight. How much you weigh is the first consideration. When making a purchase, you'll be asked whether you weight 250 pounds or less, or if you weight more than 250 pounds. The second choice is a more durable scooter to be able to carry that difference in weight. Consider whether you are close to that weight limit, and if you will be carrying heavy objects on your scooter or in your scooter basket! It all adds up!
Scooter dimensions. The size of the scooter is going to be important based on your environment. If you use your scooter indoors where the hallways are narrow and the corners are tight, then a smaller scooter with a small turning radius will be your better choice. You can find those measurements in the specifications section when review the details of any scooter.
Transportation. You will need to consider the size of those individual pieces and the weight of the largest piece. Many scooters do disassemble into three pieces, not including the batteries. The heaviest piece can be as much as 30 pounds. So, you might need to consider how much weight your spouse, friends or caregivers can lift in order to get that into the trunk of your car. Also check the sizes of the pieces to be sure you or a friend can get them into the trunk of the car being used!
The seat. If you are in and out of your scooter seat all day, then you would probably be fine with the seat that comes standard with your scooter. If you remain in the seat most of the day, you'll want to consider upgrading to a more comfortable seat that has extra foam padding. Also consider leg room; if you are tall, you will want a seat that can be moved higher. Some seats also swivel for easy access, then lock in place when you are facing forward. More expensive, and thus more comfortable seats, are oftentimes called Captain chairs because they look like the chair/seat used by a captain on a boat.
The arms. If you are in and out of your seat, you'll probably want arms that rotate back out of the way for easy transfer. Some scooters come with arms that can be adjusted wider to allow more room for you and a heavy coat on chilly days, or to help adjust the chair to the most comfortable position for your needs.
Accessories. There are many options from pouches to baskets to headlines, and many of these options have an additional charge to them, just like when you bought your car. Take your time when scrolling through the Accessories list when comparing scooters and their value to your needs.

• Headlights. If you drive your scooter at night outdoors, you probably will want headlights. That won't be just for the benefit of others to see you, but also for you to see cracks in you path. We do not recommend that you drive your scooter in the street. Some scooters come with directionals so you can alert others to the fact that you are turning.
• Crutch, oxygen tank holders. If you walk with a crutch, you can order a crutch holder for your scooter. The same for your oxygen tank. If you don't need a particular accessory right now, consider what our needs might be next year and plan ahead.
• Throttle. The throttle is near your feet, similar to the gas pedal for a car, and can be moved with your hands. But if you don't have good gripping with your hands, you might consider throttle extensions.
• Left- or right-handed. If you are left-handed, or have had a stroke that left you weaker on your right side, you might want to ask for a left-hand drive scooter.

Colors. One of the most popular colors is red, followed by green, then blue. What was the favorite color of your favorite car?!
Tires. Most scooters now come with foam-filled tires. These eliminate the problem of flat tires.
The Tiller. If you have limited ability to grip, be sure you don't get a scooter that has knobs for release mechanisms. The tiller is like the handlebars of a bicycle, and it can be moved forward for easy access to sit down, the moved back in place for when you are ready to drive on. Some scooters are made with a lever that allows you to just move it with the push of your hand to release the Tiller.
Here is another important checklist of you are not sure if you are ready to buy a scooter. If you agree with the following questions, a scooter may be right for you:
1. My needs cannot be met with lesser equipment (e.g., manual wheelchair).
2. I have sufficient vision and judgment to guide a scooter safely.
3. Availability of power mobility will increase my access to different environments.
4. I can transport a scooter to and from intended environments.
5. I have sufficient strength, range of motion, and endurance in my hands and arms to guide a device with a tiller. (Scooters are guided by tillers, which are mechanically similar to the handlebars of a bicycle).
6. I have adequate trunk stability. (Seating options are limited on scooters so the user must be able to hold him or herself erect.) 

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Selecting a Wheelchair from a Online Wheelchair Store

Selecting a Wheelchair

Issues to consider, information to have at the ready when you are choosing a wheelchair.

It is very important to get as close as you can to the optimal chair for you when you make your selection.
Chances are you know other wheelchair users, possibly from your rehab experience, support groups, participation in athletics, or your local independent living center. Wheelchair users tend to be very opinionated about their choices. Remember that every person is different. You can learn much from what others say, but what works best for them might not work for you. What counts is to get your own education.

My experience with purchasing the best chair for me came primarily from my own research which included talking with other wheelchair users. I got a couple of names from the retailer, but the best information I got was from the Internet.

Learn as much as possible about chairs and what is available on the market. You can request product information from all companies that appear to have something you think might work for you.
Consider The Issue! Selection depends on many things about where you live and work. Investigate your home and workplace. You need to be equipped with answers to questions such as these:

• How wide are your doors—main entry, kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms, etc.?
• Are there tight angles to negotiate, such as a hallway that turns sharply at the bedroom door?
• How large is the bathroom? Will it be possible to wheel your chair alongside the bathtub, or must you face it directly? Is the door smaller than the others in your house? Will you be able to close the door once inside with your wheelchair?
• What is the knee clearance of tables and desks?
• How high are cabinets and shelves that you might need to reach?
• Is the terrain around your home paved? If not, what kind of surface is it? Is it level?
• What are the surfaces where you will do most of your wheeling? Carpet, tile, concrete, packed soil?

You must also consider the vehicles which will carry you:

• If you drive, do you have a car, or a van? Two or four doors?
• What is the size of the trunk in the family car?
• What kind of public transportation might you use?

Failure to consider any one of these points can mean having to live with a constant irritant or insurmountable obstacle, facing the stress of unnecessary restriction of your mobility every day—just because you got the wrong chair. You might even be risking your safety if, for instance, you are forced to make a long transfer to the bath or shower because you chose those fixed footrests which prevent you from getting close enough.
It’s A Lifestyle Choice
You will also want to consider your lifestyle and the kinds of activities you plan to participate in. If you like to be on the go—visiting friends, attending entertainment and sporting events, taking classes—or travel a lot either for pleasure or business, you might need a different chair than if you prefer a more quiet life and enjoy being home most of the time. Along with the previous lists, make one that includes:

• Hobbies and activities for which your chair will be a consideration.
• Relevant information about any "homes away from home." If you like to hang out at your best friend’s place, you want to make sure you can fit through those doors, too.
• The importance of the appearance of your chair to you. Do you see yourself in something sporty? Eye-catching? Or do looks not matter much to you?
• Your preferred level of physical activity. Do you like to get lots of exercise, or as little as you can get away with?