[misc.handicap] 3 wheelers: how to choose

Tzipporah.Benavraham@f607.n278.z1.fidonet.org (Tzipporah Benavraham) (06/21/91)

Index Number: 16314

First Bob what kind of coverage do you have? If you have medicare or
medicaid there is a difference form what a private compnay can give. As an
example for a three wheeled scooter only one time in your life they will
give you $1700 towards the price of one and the rest is in your hands. Now
the Amigo is low end cost and VERY SLOW and very unstable. UNLESS you are
also the Amigo is for an older person with very little problems walking
around in an accessible are.

These scooters do NOT go down stairs so a ramp is important. There is a
little drive gear at the bottom which is as thin as a bycycle chain. In
fact it IS a bicycle chain. But it is remarkably resiliant and strong for
upwards of 8 months. THEN you have to service and repair it with lithium
grease and a tightening or replacing. If you are handy fine. There are no
AAA clubs for broken wheelcahirs even though I have gotten some supplies
at a local bicycle shop here for mine..

I use an electric mobility myself. It is expensie ($3500) but it holds my
weight and height well. It also has foam filled tires (solid and puncture
resistant) and a couple nice baskets. 1 800 mobility is the number to
call. They can help you fill out the papers to get one if you are truly
interested in calling them.

I also suggest you call NARIC (get the 800 number form directory
assistance) and ask them for a printout of "wheelchair alternatives". Then
call all of them for demos. You may also look at the local surgical suply
store in your area that may have them around for you to try.

Batteries will drive you crazy. The gel cell are the ONLY ones permitted
on an airplane. bus or train. so make sure you get them. NOT the wet cell.
THOSE are not permitted in many places.

Hope this is a good beginning.

Good luck. Hope this is a good start for your quest.,

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