The Top Accessories for your Wheelchair

Over the past few months, we have been busy adding in new Wheelchairs to our range to meet the ever growing demand. There are numerous articles (including some that we've written) on advice and information on the different types of Wheelchair, but not so many on the accessories for them. So to fill this void and help people out even more we thought we'd write a post on our top 10 accessories for your manual wheelchairs.

Somewhere to put your drink.

The ultimate accessory for when you are out and about. Simply attach a clip on cup holder to your wheelchair so you can enjoy drink on the go. One of the most popular is the 'Drink Thing' that fits a variety of different container sizes and clips neatly onto the frame of any wheelchair. A must for the summer months or being out in the shops.

Hand Protection.

Using manual wheelchairs quite often can certainly be hard work on your hands. Developed by wheelchair users to make life comfortable for wheelchair users, gloves can protect against blisters and callouses yet are light and comfortable to wear. For those who want even more comfort and robustness, there are the Globeleather gloves which have been described as "the best wheelchair gloves available".

Added Storage and Saving Space

A handy device for packing things away and also saving on space to store items is an under seat wheelchair pouch. This excellent device clips securely and easily to the wheelchair with buckles and hides away under the chair. An ingenious accessory for the wheelchair provides convenient storage and is easily accessible from the front by the user.

Additional Security and Padding

With an extra secure wheelchair belt, you can have an added feeling of being secure by having a belt that criss-crosses across the back of the wheelchair and loops around the levers. Machine washable and made from heavy duty nylon, this belt fits comfortably around the hips.

Space Saving Oxygen

Ideal for persons with emphysema or other respiratory conditions then the perfect solution is a CarryON wheelchair bag that conveniently stores oxygen tanks out of the way. A large mesh bag easily holds one or two 'E' Cylinder tanks and also comes with a deep mask/nasal cannula pouch that is machine washable.

Keep on Working on the Move


If you have visual perception problems, then a transparent tray that attaches to all different types of wheelchair is ideal for you. With an aluminuim lip that keeps the tray from falling off, this durable see-through tray will provide a clear line of sight to your lap and offering a sturdy platform to perform work or tasks. The tray can easily be attached and removed thanks to the hook and loop straps that attach onto the wheelchair armrests.

Added Comfort

What would an accessory list be without something for extra comfort? One of the best methods of getting a softer surface to sit on is a cushion made from silicone gel and foam. Ideal for relieving pressure areas this cushion will make any wheelchair feel comfortable and relaxing all the time.

Accessibility Accessory

Last but by no means least is the most popular (and some would argue most essential) is the Wheelchair Ramp. Mostly constructed from aluminium and being lightweight and very portable, they are ideal for providing access to and from buildings, stairs and cars. Ramps come in a variety of different sizes and portable options and can quite often come complete with a carry bag for transportation. Some of the ramps can also be used for mobility scooters as they are made from very tough, durable materials.

With so many different accessories to choose from, Mobility Buddy provide all the help and information on Manual Wheelchairs, Mobility Scooters and Wheelchair Accessories that you need. Visit www.MobilityBuddy.co.uk and find the right mobility aid for your needs.

Disabled Scooter Tricks, Alcohol and Driving School

Three articles in the world of disabled scooters attracted my attention this past week. What is mostly interesting about them is they are very abstract and are based around three completely different situations but all involving a mobility scooter.

I take a lot of time to research new developments on our scooters that include reviews, press releases and of course articles from users of the scooters. On our site, we have many reviews that we like to provide to help people understand the scooter. These include detailed product information, customer reviews and some demonstration videos. The latter are usually from the manufacturers who demonstrate the scooter's features and how it can be used. I was amazed however, to find this video of a demonstration of a different kind for a Rascal Scooter:

Rascal Scooter Tricks

There was an interesting psychological study published recently, that described the effects of different types of training for using a mobility scooter and a user's ability to use the scooter. The details can be found in this brief synopsis. Although it did bring up that the type of training given can directly influence the ability of driving a scooter, it made me think about the need for what is similar to a driving school for scooters. I have blogged about this before (see this post) as there have been numerous articles in the press about accidents involving scooters seen here, and here. Although there is obviously a number of accidents involving scooters, to enforce a strict 'driving licence' for users could quite possibly put more restrictions of people's mobility. Users of mobility scooters are given a lifeline and freedom that they might not have and by making an enforced driving licence might restrict this freedom even further.

It is my view that the manufacturers and suppliers of scooters should provide all the help and advice that is needed to opperate the scooters effectively and confidently. When buying a disabled scooter, shop around for a supplier that can offer advice, a demonstration or even instruction on how to use a scooter. Many scooter suppliers often have a showroom, so go and visit them.

Last but not least is was this quite amazing story of a drunken woman who stole a disabled scooter from Asda and then tried to drive it nearly 10 miles to her home. After breaking a heel of a shoe on a night out, the scooter obviously looked like an attractive option for the rest of the journey home. Police later stopped her for driving erratically after 2 and a half miles where it was recorded she was two times over the legal limit for alcohol. Quite the disreagard for people with disabilities. Read the full article here.

MobilityBuddy not only provide a comprehensive range of disabled scooters, but also a sympathetic and understanding of our customers needs. Visit www.MobilityBuddy.co.uk.

2009 is the year for Mobility Aids reviews!

A very Happy New Year to everyone from Mobility Buddy. We've had such an eventful year in 2008, starting with the ever-so-present Credit Crunch and pretty much ending with the ever-so-present credit crunch! We've pulled out all the stops to make sure that we serve our customers well and make sure people are happy with their mobility aids.

Back in November, we introduced our new range of Manual Wheelchairs and received a great deal of positive response from happy customers:

"Wheelchair delivered on Wednesday. So light and comfortable - I'm delighted with it."
Folding Wheelchair

"I just wanted to thank you for your efficient and caring service, on my recent order. The wheelchair, which is excellent, was received safely and in good time."
Ultra Lightweight Wheelchair

2008 was a big year for the Pride Go Go mobility scooters. There are numerous reviews around for this fantastic value all-rounder and we have had many happy customers give their thumbs up as well:

"This is a fab mobility gogo and I was worried it'd be too big and heavy for the car, no probs alls well and a lady or two were so kind as they talked me through the sale only worry is what days to change the colour panels. I love it, great comfort to."
Pride Go Go Elite Traveller 4

"This is a lovely safe scooter and as it says so easy to take apart and rebuild I like it as its quiet and easy to drive and the interchangeable panels are fun - I'm on red with blue and silver still to go."
Pride Go Go Elite Traveller 4 plus

Making sure that people are both happy with their scooter or wheelchair means that not only have they spent their budget but also have the right product for their needs. We are happy to talk to all our customers at length and understand what the best mobility aid is for every individual. We take our customer satisfaction very seriously and encourage people to find out about what they are buying and also what their needs are.

We also encourage people to write their own review on every product, as we know that sometimes the best advice you can get is from other people's first hand experience with mobility scooters or mobility wheelchairs. Why not take a look at our customer reviews or better still, write your own review of our products?

We wish you all the best for 2009.
Mobility Buddy

How do I know which Wheelchair to buy?

We get a lot of people contacting us about what are the differences between the many wheelchairs on offer. It can be quite confusing as there are many different types and all have their benefits for certain needs.

Wheelchairs are probably the most widely used walking aids and by far the most suitable for disabled people. Despite being larger than other walking aids such as 3 or 4 wheeled walkers, often called 'zimmer frames', they are by far the most versatile as they can be used both indoors and outdoors. As the technology has developed, there have been more and more types of wheelchair available for people to use and suitable for a variety of different needs. Not only have the frames changed in materials, from the heavier steel to the lightweight aluminium frames, but they now come with powered motors for even more mobility control.

As the developments have made the selection even greater, getting the right wheelchair for you requires considering things such as age, disability, personal lifestyle and budget. Broadly, wheelchairs fit into two distinct categories; Electric (or powered) Wheelchairs and Manual Wheelchairs.

Electric Wheelchairs

The more advanced electric wheelchair comes with its own battery and motor to drive the chair by a 'joysitck' controller. Being much more rigid and heavier than manual wheelchairs, not only do they offer excellent manouverability but also confidence to the person to get out and about with ease. Some powered wheelchairs even come with a rotating seat for aiding people to get on or off. These wheelchairs are perfect for conserving energy as they do not need to be propelled.

Manual Wheelchairs

The more traditional form of wheelchair is available for different kinds of needs, including sports, travel, indoor and outdoor use. Most of these wheelchairs are propelled using upper body strength and have features that make it easier for people to do so. Some of the wheelchairs are designed to be pushed and have a heavier and more sturdier frame for durability and practical use. Manual wheelchairs can be separated into different categories according to the requirements of the user:

Lightweight Wheelchairs

Lightweight Wheelchairs mostly made from Aluminium making them not only strong by very light and easy to propel. The rigid frame can also come with larger wheels making them easy to and manoeuvre. The lightweight frame is ideal for travel and certain products can have a folding frame, allowing the wheelchair to be packed away in the back of a car. Lightweight wheelchairs were originally designed for sports but as they are both portable and easy to use they are very adaptable for everyday use.

Folding Wheelchairs

Most manual wheelchairs fit into this category as they have the benefits of having a collapsible frame. Folding wheelchairs can also come with folding or detachable leg rests to make them ideal for folding away for starage in the home and for travel. As they do not have any removable parts, these wheelchairs are ideal for temporary use or storing in the home.

Travel Wheelchairs

Travel wheelchairs have the benefit of being the most portable wheelchairs available. Being the most lightweight of all wheelchairs, they are suited for occasional use and getting to and from places. Collapsible, lightweight and durable they are often used for both indoor and outdoor use such as transit to and from a car, using in shopping centres or retail locations and for short distance flat terrain applications.

When considering which wheelchair is the best for you, it is best to think about the needs of the user and also what is the most convenient wheelchair for you. The prices vary from different suppliers but it is always best to check the level of after sales service and customer care before you buy. Wheelchairs can make a real difference in someone's life so be sure to think about what is best for you and where the best place to purchase it from is.

www.MobilityBuddy.co.uk stock a wide variety of Manual and Electric Wheelchairs for every individual's needs and budget.

Trusting Customer Reviews for Mobility Scooters

When selling products online, you can never neglect the importance that your customers, past and future, play in the sales process. By allowing customers to leave their honest reviews about an item, you are allowing people to express their honest opinion and give a sense of trust to the potential buyers.

Shopping online for something as important as a disabled mobility scooter, you need to feel assured that the scooter you are buying is not only the right one for you but also that you are going to get the best service as well as after sales service.

Take one of our best selling and an overall popular scooter, the Pride Go Go, for example. As this is a popular scooter there are many places to buy it online. However, one thing that people might not think about when shopping for the lowest price is what level of customer service they will get. This point is emphasised by a blog post I found here. In this article, a customer reviews the Pride Go Go and their problems they had with one particular company by not providing the after sales service. It leaves the customer rather disappointed in not only the product (which is one of the best value and reliable scooters available I might add) but also the experience of buying online.

The review is concluded by advising people to buy from a local shop and not from the internet as you don't get that 'at home service'. However, we believe that providing the 'at home service' is vital to anyone who is buying a mobility scooter. It is good to shop around to suit your budget but also good to measure one internet retailer's level of customer service with another. If you need that repair service or even just a home demonstration that can be worth paying a little more for. I think the best advice would be to first of all know your needs, research the product, read the customer reviews and then find the right place to buy. You can shop to find the best price but more importantly, shop to find the best level of service.

Mobility Buddy has a large range of Mobility Scooters, including the Pride Go Go, and we pride ourselves on our level of customer care and after sales service. We know how important buying the right mobility scooter is and also taking care of your needs. Why not read our customer reviews and see what people think of the products and service.

www.MobilityBuddy.co.uk

Mobility Scooter news from around the web...

It has been a busy week around the web for news on Mobility Scooters. One of the biggest stories is that MPs are now insisting on drivers of Mobility Scooters. It seems that the number of accidents involving mobility scooters has prompted the government to take notice and consider scooter owners to take driving lessons. Under new proposals, owners of scooters would have to 'prove' that they are capable of handling the scooters and that they would not pose a threat to the public.

Despite the media concentrating on the reporting accidents and at worst fatalities, the charity Help the Aged however, have responded to MPs that is was 'largely a creation of the media'. This was also echoed by the Department of Transport who maintained that it was not a major problem. You can read more about the article here or here.

On the lighter side of things, Charnwood Borough Council has purchased an all terrain Mobility Scooter in order for more people to enjoy a popular beauty destination around Loughborough, UK. Now the Helen Jean Cope Trust has bought a second scooter to allow even more disabled people to get around the 110-acre site of Special Scientific Interest. This is great news for people to get out and about to see tourist destinations. You can read the full story here.

One of the most popular pavement scooters has made an appearance on the popular video site YouTube. Pride Scooters are a great way of getting about and this short video below really shows how versatile and easy to drive they are:




Mobility Buddy have a wide variety of Mobility Scooters in their current sale including the most popular Pride Scooter. Visit www.MobilityBuddy.co.uk and get the perfect scooter for you.

Lightweight Wheelchairs for the Winter Season

Now that we're in the new season of winter Mobility Buddy is warming things up with the introduction of a new range of Lightweight Wheelchairs.

With getting out and about being a high priority during the run up to Christmas, we have put together a great selection of Lightweight Wheelchairs all at great sale prices. Our 4 new wheelchairs are designed to cover all price ranges, from the ultra portable to the more comfortable and sturdy.

If a well balanced and attractive wheelchair sounds ideal for your needs then our Transit Folding Wheelchair is the perfect companion for you. With large 15" rear wheels and a light aluminium frame, this sturdy but manoeuvrable wheelchair is easy to push and giving a very comfortable ride. The tartan style blue cheque make it very attractive as well as functional and also comes with puncture proof tyres and a parking brake.

Lightweight Wheelchairs are best suited for those who like to get out and about and pack a wheelchair away in the back of the car. Mobility Buddy has a fantastic new Ultra Lightweight Wheelchair ideal for travel, that is both super light and also foldaway. The best feature of this wheelchair is that there are no removal parts to get lost along the way! The wheelchair also comes in a variety of different fabrics and fold away footrests.

For something a little more sturdy but also portable, then try our Lightweight Folding Wheelchair. This is exceptionally good value transit style wheelchair offers a double cross brace to provide a responsive, rigid chair performance. With a lightweight aluminium frame and an assortment of different fabrics to choose from, this is the ideal wheelchair for potability and comfort.

Something a little more stylish but still with maximum comfort is our new Folding Lightweight Wheelchair. With an attractive designed framework and a luxury padded seat and backrest, this wheelchair is great value and extremely comfortable. An added feature is the padded armrests to allow user to get close to the table or desk.

So why not get out and about this Winter to the shops or visiting family and friends with the new range of lightweight and portable wheelchairs. To make things even better we're now having a Winter Sale with huge savings on a large range of Mobility Wheelchairs and Mobility Scooters.