What are the main features I should look for when purchasing a walker or rollator?

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The Frame – Most of the frames you’ll see on a walker or rollator are made from aluminum. The only consideration here is if the individual needs extra support because of their weight. There are heavy duty frames available.

Wheels (for rollators) – The wheels of your rollator can be large or small. The larger they are the easier it is to get over tougher obstacles. Smaller wheels are more suited for indoor use. Wheels can also be fixed or have ...

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What is the maximum weight capacity for a medical walker?

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Although most standard walkers and rollators have durable aluminum frames, there is a maximum weight capacity. Most have the ability to hold individuals up to 300lbs. There are some heavy duty models that can withstand much more. Bariatric walkers and rollators are specifically designed to withstand additional weight and are often manufactured using welded steel. These heavy duty models are made to hold 400 lb, 500 lb, and up to 1000 lb. See the page from ...

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What advantages does a 3 wheeled rollator have over a 4 wheeled rollator?

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Three (3) wheeled rollators/walkers have the advantage of maneuverability. They can easily get around corners and tight spaces because of its smaller frame and tight turning radius. Four wheeled rollators/walkers have the advantage of being more stable for the user. In most cases it comes down to user preference and cost when making a decision between the two. 4 wheeled rollators are typically a bit more expensive than the comparable 3 wheeled variety. Some rollators also allow for an optional ...

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Do I need a walker or rollator?

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Walkers – Walkers are built with telescoping aluminum supports, the standard walker is a great way for individuals with injuries or disabilities to get around. Better support than a rollator.

Rollators (walkers with wheels) – A rollator is basically a standard walker with tires attached or a rolling walker. Unlike a regular walker, a rollator doesn’t involve the lift that a normal walker requires. Makes walking a smoother process. A rollator however requires that the user be stable enough to not let ...

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What is a rollator?

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Rollators are basically standard walkers with tires attached or rolling walkers. Unlike a regular walker, a rollator doesn’t involve the lift that a normal walker requires. It makes walking a smoother process. A rollator however requires that the user be stable enough to not let it get away from them since it has wheels.

Picture of a Rollator

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What are the types of wheelchair and scooter lifts?

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Vertical Platform Wheelchair/Scooter Lifts – are made for physical locations and are manufactured to assist individuals with physical disabilities from the ground to the main floor of their residence or business.

Platform Wheelchair Lifts (Auto) – There are both solid and folding platform lifts that can be sub-categorized into automatic and semi-automatic types. An automatic lift will fold, unfold, lower and raise ...

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What type of battery is required for a scooter?

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Most of today’s modern mobility scooters require two, 12-volt, deep-cycle gel cell batteries that are sealed and free from maintenance. Gel cell batteries were developed to stop the battery from leaking acid (like when they used wet cell batteries). Gel cell batteries are sealed and dry with no potential for spills. The silica gel suspends the acids (electrolyte) in the battery so if it is broken or punctured it will not leak. Gel-cell lead-acid batteries were developed to be maintenance ...

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How kind of maintenance is required for a mobility scooter?

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Mobility scooters require specific daily, weekly, monthly, and even annual inspections for certain components. Each type of inspection is designed to increase the life span of your mobility device and make unexpected repairs less likely. In most cases the highest areas of concern will be the battery, tires, wheels, brakes, and some electrical components. Always make sure to consult the owners manual of your scooter before starting inspections.

The battery & battery terminals of your mobility device should be examined  and ...

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What is the normal range of a mobility scooter?

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The range of a mobility scooter depends on a number of factors. Each could have an effect on the battery life of your mobility device.

  • The users weight
  • Ground level
  • Distances traveled
  • Frequency of use
  • Age of the battery
  • Temperature during travel
  • Depth of charge
  • Frequency of charge
  • Storage temp of the battery
  • Carrying any extra baggage
  • The amount of air in your tires

In normal situations your scooter should be able to travel anywhere from 15-25 miles on one charge (see your user manual). You can however purchase batteries that will ...

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Mobility Scooter Vs Power Wheelchair – How to Choose?

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The needs of the user should be the most important factors considered when choosing between a mobility scooter and a power wheelchair. Here are a few questions to ask. Be sure to also consult with a physical or occupational therapist.

  1. What type of mobility device would be the easiest for the user to maneuver?
  2. Is the device primarily for indoor or outdoor use?
  3. Does the user reside in a spacious home, apartment, or assisted living facility?
  4. Will the user be operating the vehicle for ...
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What is a wheelchair ramp made of?

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The material used to manufacture a wheelchair ramp will often depend on the type of ramp and its intended use. Is it a permanent structure or is it temporary?

If the ramp is a permanent structure then wood, steel, or concrete can be use. Combined with the appropriate non-slip materials, construction plans, and maintenance, these materials are perfect solution for permanent ramp structures.

Temporary & semi-permanent wheelchair ramps (modular ramps) are typically manufactured using aluminum. They are lightweight and virtually maintenance free ...

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How many motors are needed in a lift chair?

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The number of motors needed for a lift chair will depend on a variety of factors including weight capacity, the needs of the user, and the number of chair positions.

A basic lift chair will have one motor that will lift and recline the user. An infinite position lift chair, on the other hand, offers 2 motors that allow the user to adjust the head and foot rests independently. There are even bariatric lift chairs, with 3 motors, that are designed ...

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Does Medicare cover my electric lift chair?

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Medicare stopped reimbursement for electric lift chairs in the early 90’s and now will only reimburse for the chair’s lift mechanism and motor. This will usually come out to be close to $300.

Below is the criteria that Medicare uses to determine if an individual is eligible for lift chair reimbursement:

  • Does the individual have severe arthritis of the hip or knees?
  • Does the individual have a severe neuromuscular disease?
  • Is the lift chair prescribed by your doctor? If so, is it part of ...
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What are sports wheelchairs? Racing wheelchairs?

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Sports wheelchairs offer increased mobility (even compared to a lightweight wheelchair) combined with a much smaller turning radius. Most are made from lightweight materials like titanium and aluminum. The only drawback is that most have a rigid, non-folding frame. In most cases, a sports wheelchair will be custom built for the user and cost anywhere from 2k – 8k.

Example of Sports Wheelchair (For Racing):

Sports Wheelchair - Racing Wheelchair

 

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