Keeping mobile during the winter in your power chair or electric scooter

Cynthia Lopinto Feature Article Leave a comment 2,751 Views

It seems like the 2014/2015 winter season has begun with a vengeance. The devastation from the recent snowstorm in upstate New York is affecting many of our fellow citizens and emphasizes just how important mobility and advance preparation can be. For those in storm ravaged areas who rely on power wheelchairs and scooters to get around, extra precautions are needed. The threat of power outages become a reality for so many people and since power wheelchairs and scooters run off of an electric charge, loss of mobility is a constant threat. Having extra batteries on hand is a great idea in case an emergency situation arises. Remember to charge these once a week to make sure they are ready to go. There are also in-vehicle chargers available which will charge your electric scooter or motorized wheelchair while you are transporting your unit inside your vehicle.

Another necessity is to make sure your unit stays dry. The electronics are obviously the most vulnerable to wet conditions. If you are someone who uses a power wheelchair or mobility scooter outside, you should always carry a plastic bag or cover to fit over your tiller or joystick in case you get caught in a sudden storm. This simple precaution could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars should you have to replace your unit due to water damage.

Another improvement in the durable medical equipment industry relates to reclining lift chairs. It used to be that if there was a power outage while someone was in a lift chair, they were stuck in whatever position they were in at the time the power went out. This was especially dangerous for those who live alone. With the new power lift chairs there is a battery backup feature, which takes away the worry of being stranded in the reclined position. Also, the new light up hand controls on some of the reclining lift chairs stay lit even if the power goes out.

If you know that a storm is coming your way and the loss of power is a worry, the first thing you want to do is to charge up your power wheelchair or electric scooter fully. It is like putting a full tank of gas in your car. If you also have a mini generator kit, you will have the added security of making it through until your power is restored.

The recent winter storms should act as a real wake-up call and force everyone to take a better look at what they need to be safe and stay moving. For those who rely on mobility products to get around, planning ahead takes on even more significance.

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Cynthia Lopinto

Cyn LoPinto, M.A. is a gerontologist focusing on significant issues affecting older adults and their families. Her areas of interest include lifestyle enrichment, family dynamics, and caregiver support. Cyn has worked in both the recreational and healthcare industries.