The Positives and Negatives of "Power Chairs"

"Power chairs" like the "Hoveround" have their positives. For example, a person who tires easily or has trouble walking short distances can benefit. A person that is arthritic, has a few extra pounds or gets short of breath can use it to get around inside their home to help them perform basic functions needed for daily living. And for functions that include bathroom trips, preparing a kitchen meal or snack and retiring for bedtime.

The chair can be driven around outside so a person can get some fresh air, water the lawn or work in the garden. Some people use "power chairs" to visit next door neighbors, drive around the block or travel to a store nearby. While all the above are desirables and a big plus to owning a "power chair" there are some UN-pleasantries as well.

"Power chairs" have to be charged up to run.

You can't just sit down in one and go. They have battery packs, which have to be plugged into an electrical outlet until they are charged up. The chair can only run so far on one charge.

"Power chairs may not fit in your vehicle.

There are some chairs that fold up but many don't. If you don't have a van or pickup or something large enough to put it in you'll probably have to leave it at home.

"Power chairs can be weighty and can be difficult to lift.

If you need the use of a chair in the first place then you'll probably need someone to assist putting it into a vehicle and taking it out.

"Power chairs" driven on the side of streets and roads can be dangerous.

It can be as dangerous as riding a bicycle or walking.

To make driving a "power chair" more accessible to places you want to go and a little safer here is some things you can do.

Have a ramp made, which will allow you to drive the chair down off your porch instead of having to carry it.

Have a lift installed on your vehicle. That way you won't need someone to assist you by putting it in or taking it out of your vehicle.