For some, a power wheelchair is the only option. Their lack of arm strength or limited motor skills eliminates the possibility of using a manual.

There are many people who could benefit from using a power chair, but refrain feeling that it will make them feel too “disabled”. Also, they are concerned that the use of a power chair will forgo the opportunity for proper exercise of the upper body.

The ideal solution for most is actually a combination approach. For indoor mobility as well as traveling shorter distances, a manual chair is preferable when possible. Besides for keeping body muscles in shape, manual chairs are more maneuverable and are easier to transport. This is especially true when being lifted up stairs or when transporting the chair in a vehicle.

When traveling long distances, it is advisable to use a power chair. There is simply no sense in exhausting oneself trying to get from point A to point B, leaving no strength for actually performing the activity that was meant to be accomplished at the destination!

Another consideration is long term health ramifications. People who have used manual wheelchairs for many years often find that their shoulders begin to give out from overuse. A distinction has to be drawn between healthy exercise and detrimental abuse. As always, a doctor should be consulted regarding the best practices to be implemented.

Regarding the “disabled” look, for those that have adequate upper body balance, a scooter may be a better option. Not only is a scooter more aesthetically pleasing, they are also a lot cheaper. Again, a doctor must always be consulted to help determine if a scooter is appropriate.