Mobility Aids

cox1058

Hi there

I have just invested in a riser/recliner chair as the osteoarthritis I have is really hampering my mobility and when I go from sitting to standing, my back/hips/knees are so painful - hoping this will alleviate some of the pain.

My next thoughts are related to mobility scooters…does anyone use one of these, and are there any tips when looking at them. They seem to vary tremendously in cost and I don't really know what to look for. I'd like to know if the ones that take apart or fold to go in your car boot, are still ok to use, and also what the distance range is on them. My hubby just rolls his eyes when I broach the subject…I don't really want to be getting one of these of course, but my walking is so limited now I feel that all I do is exist to work from home…I never get out for any form of enjoyment.

All advice gratefully received - thank you x

noddingtonpete

Hello @cox1058 my mother had a couple - there was a fold up one for shopping which was great for putting in the car (though heavy) and also a bigger one which she hardly ever used. I'm not sure on the range of the bigger one but it was definitely faster. It gave her mobility when she couldn't walk so she found it very beneficial.

Baloo

@cox1058 yes, there are issues such as storing and assembling. Might I suggest though if you have a recliner that is making life easier enough, to deliberately get up more often, to loosen up, as we are supposed to exercise, and don't fall for the modern pressure to get everything done in one go. I like making several trips into the kitchen or out to the garage. WIthin limits that is.

cox1058

@baloo - yes, absolutely. I've used all of the buttons on the control to see what they do, but am saving the riser function for the days when my back is really painful. I'm overweight I know, so when my back is painful, it puts added strain on all my joints when trying to get up from a sitting position. I tried to have my chair raised on blocks, but it made me feel like I couldn't sit back in the chair properly. Difficult trying to find the best solution sometimes.

crinkly

Good for you! It's hard to admit that one is struggling and that exercise, although helpful is not a cure. Only you know exactly what you need and how much you have to spend but you have overcome the first (psychological) hurdle. Being able to get out and about independently and comfortably is a huge asset!

Take plenty of time to consider your exact needs then research all options and availability. Hopefully your personal positivity will encourage your husband to consider what features will best suit your shared environment, then he can help make the search more fun. It's probably hard for him to see you having to accept limitations.

Browsing the internet will provide a lot of information and give you an idea of the brands and models that might suit your particular circumstances. You can then make a list of any you think might be worth pursuing. You can usually ask questions online without committing to a purchase and there may be a chance to try scooters at home.

Alternatively most large retailers of mobility aids are willing to give on-hand advice and let you try various models at their shop/showroom. Ideally find a retailer who supplies more than one manufacturer's products.

Another very helpful source can be a business that reconditions and recycles mobility vehicles - often 'returns' or virtually unused, at a reduced price and with guarantees. You should find details online.

**In all cases remember that you don't have to buy on the first visit/trial. Think things through more carefully first. It's a big investment so you don't want to have regrets!

I have never had a scooter because my hands are also affected by OA but I've had 3 different powerchairs over the past 30+ years. My OH has been great in helping find the best chair for my needs.

For the record, owning a powerchair has never prompted me to use it unnecessarily. I never do so indoors and many of the friends I meet in a social or voluntary capacity don't know about it - so it certainly doesn't replace the amount of exercise I am still able to do. What it adds to my life is the freedom to shop/go out independently and to enjoy countryside walks - essential features of well-being that I was in danger of losing.

Hope you enjoy your search, find the perfect scooter and love using it. 🤩