Can you get in and out of your wheelchair or scooter? - Muscular Dystrophy Message Board

michigani · 07-29-2008, 05:32 PM

I'm finally ordering a scooter. I still walk around in my house okay. I cook, wash dishes, vacuum and stuff like that (although it gets me tired). I told MDA I REALLY need something outdoors to take to the park or ball games with my family, etc. My big fear is that when I test drive them in a few days that I won't be able to get out of the thing. I'm afraid they'll tell me a scooter is not for me. How does everyone else deal with this that has a chair or scooter? I'd love to hear from someone with personal experience.

Mark

Madalot · 07-30-2008, 06:48 AM

Hey Mark!!

When I made the decision that I needed a chair or scooter, I went to a local place that specializes in helping people pick the right chair or scooter for their present and future needs. Based on a diagnosis of MD, the specialist (also named Mark) said that he did not recommend a scooter as the possibility did exist that in the future, I wouldn't have the strength to run it properly since I would need to have my arms up. He recommended a powerchair, which is what I ended up doing.

I do not have trouble getting out of the chair. It's high enough, with arms, and I am able to get out of it fairly easily. I always make sure that it's powered OFF before I get in or out of it in case I accidentally hit the joystick!!

This chair was designed and manufactured specifically for me and I'm guessing that the height of the seat was also made specifically for me to enable me to get out of it by myself.

If you have any other specific questions, just post and I'll answer as soon as I can!!

Good luck! I hope you get your scooter or chair soon.

michigani · 07-30-2008, 11:25 AM

Thanks Kathy, your reply did boost my confidence a bit. My arms are in much better shape than my legs. I'm still lifting light dumbbells over my head and trying to keep them in good condition. I can get out of my computer chair. I keep it in the highest position (about 18-20 inches) and I can get out of it if I back it against the wall. I'm hoping the scooter will be similar. It can be set up to 24" high. I'm really looking forward to getting something with wheels. I can't walk safely with my cane anymore. I get too scared. I've been using my walker for the last 2 months and feel much safer. Thanks again.

dkbladez · 08-02-2008, 03:32 PM

Hello Mark,
I can get out of my power chair fairly easy on a good day

. But sometimes I am so weak I can't get out of it. I don't need a lot of help to get out of it like in my manual chair, because there is no way I can get out my manual chair without help. My chair does have an adjustable seat and I believe mine is on the middle level, so I can lift it up another notch if need be. I did see in a book that they do have some that lift you up, so please check around. Good Luck!!!