By Daylan Kempster, Assistive Technology Specialist and Director of Mobility Co
In short: A power wheelchair, also called an electric wheelchair, uses a motor and a joystick so the person drives themselves, without needing the strength to push a manual chair or someone to push it for them. Mobility Co supplies folding travel power chairs and premium WHILL power wheelchairs across Melbourne. See and try them at our Cheltenham showroom at 2/136 Keys Road, or call 1300 225 203. We work with NDIS, Home Care Package, Support at Home and private customers.
A power wheelchair gives back independence when pushing a manual chair is too tiring or no longer possible. Instead of relying on arm strength or a carer, the person steers with a light touch on a joystick, indoors and out. For many people it is the difference between waiting to be taken somewhere and simply going. This page walks through the main types and how to choose one that fits the person, the home and the way they live.
Power wheelchairs are a considered purchase, and the right choice depends on the body and the environment as much as the chair. At Mobility Co you can try them in person at our Cheltenham showroom, and we work alongside occupational therapists across Melbourne to get the fit and the funding right.
Folding travel power chair
Our Aspire Aerolite carbon fibre power chair is light enough to fold down and lift into a car boot, so it travels with you to appointments, shops and holidays. It suits people who are out and about and want their own wheels without needing a hoist or a large vehicle. Battery range covers a typical day out, and the controls are simple to learn.
WHILL premium power chair
The WHILL range is a modern, design led power chair that turns on the spot, handles kerbs and uneven paths, and looks nothing like traditional equipment. It is a favourite with people who want capability and style in equal measure, and it comes apart to fit in a car. Come and take one for a drive on our showroom floor.
How to choose a power wheelchair
Think first about where it will be used. Mostly indoors and around the shops calls for a compact, tight turning chair, while daily outdoor use calls for range and a comfortable ride. If it needs to travel in a car, a folding model or one that comes apart matters. Consider how the person will transfer in and out, how long they sit each day, and whether they can operate a joystick comfortably. Because power chairs are often funded and always personal, an occupational therapist assessment is usually part of the process, and we are happy to work alongside yours.
Why choose your power wheelchair with us in Cheltenham
A power chair you have only seen online is a gamble, because fit, controls and turning circle are things you can only judge by driving one. We keep models on the floor so the person who will use it can try them, and we take the time to get the seating and the setup right rather than shipping a box. If funding is part of the picture we can help you understand your options through NDIS, a Home Care Package or Support at Home, and we support DVA clients too. If you need something sooner or shorter term, ask about a manual chair from our wheelchairs range or hire.
Scooter or power chair? if you would rather steer from a tiller and sit higher, compare our guide to mobility scooters in Melbourne.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a power wheelchair and an electric wheelchair? They are two names for the same thing, a wheelchair with a motor and a joystick that the person drives themselves. You will also hear the term power chair. All three mean a chair you do not have to push.
Where can I try a power wheelchair in Melbourne? You can try power wheelchairs at our Cheltenham showroom at 2/136 Keys Road, a short drive from across Bayside and the south east. Call 1300 225 203 to check which models are on the floor before you visit.
Are power wheelchairs covered by NDIS? They often are. Power wheelchairs are commonly funded through the NDIS, and may also be supported through a Home Care Package or Support at Home. These usually involve an occupational therapist assessment, and we provide the quotes and paperwork your plan manager or coordinator needs. We support DVA clients too.
Can a power wheelchair fit in a car? Yes, many can. Folding models and chairs that come apart into lighter pieces are made to travel in a car boot. Tell us your vehicle and who will be lifting, and we will point you to a model that suits.
Do I need an occupational therapist to get a power wheelchair? For funded chairs, usually yes, and it is good practice anyway because fit and safety matter. We work alongside occupational therapists across Melbourne every day, and can guide you if you do not have one yet.
Come and see us in Cheltenham. You are welcome to visit the showroom at 2/136 Keys Road, Cheltenham, take a power chair for a drive and talk through what will work best for the person and the home. We are a short drive from across Bayside and the south east, with parking at the door.
RepOcean verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you are looking for an equipment supplier specialising in low and mid cost AT - including recliners and pressure care cushions, then look no further than Mobility Co.
They are a lovely small business owned by a cute and lovely young couple.
They have a showroom downstairs and they have a workspace upstairs, which they allow mobile therapists to use when they are in transit, and seeking a place to make a cuppa/heat food and sit down to finish off some admin work!
Owner, Daylan is very responsive and has a wealth knowledge to help any buyer!
Customer car parking in the lot
RepOcean verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As an OT, I cannot recommend Daylan and his team enough. They always go the extra mile to help out. Their product knowledge is outstanding, and they consistently provide all the right information and practical suggestions for what will suit best. They are super easy to communicate with and seamless to work alongside. Highly recommended!
RepOcean verifies that the original source of the review is Google. RepOcean verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We met our OT and Daylan at the extensive showroom in Cheltenham. From the minute my parents and I walked in the door, we felt like family. They genuinely cared about finding the best solutions for our needs. We ordered a recliner and a wheelchair and within two days, Daylan was personally delivering and installing everything. He is a super nice and caring person and made my parents feel comfortable and confident in what they were buying. It was a pleasure dealing with him and even nicer to be supporting a local family business. Thanks Daylan.
RepOcean verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Daylan and the team at mobility co went above and beyond to help my Mum. They delivered, set up and followed up after delivery to ensure everything went smoothly. Highly recommend. Exceptional service and genuine care for the clients.
RepOcean verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As an OT who has worked with many different suppliers, Mobility Co really stands out. They have excellent product knowledge and combine this with genuine personal care of each client. Daylan and the team have been so wonderful to work with and are lovely people who are passionate about making a difference in the industry. Couldn’t recommend them highly enough!
RepOcean verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Daylan was extremely helpful, patient and so pleasant to deal with. His customer service was thoroughly outstanding, making my job of navigating My Aged Care for my mother so much easier.
It also was satisfying to support good people who own a small business. The attention to detail and follow up is second to none.
I highly recommend Mobility Co. They can really guide and assist you. Do yourself a favour!
RepOcean verifies that the original source of the review is Google. RepOcean verifies that the original source of the review is Google. RepOcean verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Took my nan in to mobility co in Cheltenham to look at adjustable beds, Daylan gave her plenty of time to try a few and find the right one no pressure at all. They delivered it set it up and took the old bed away. Easy to deal with and way more helpful than a normal bed shop, good option for anyone in bayside.
About the author. Daylan Kempster is an Assistive Technology Specialist and the Director of Mobility Co, a family run mobility equipment showroom in Cheltenham, Melbourne. He works alongside occupational therapists and families every day to match people with equipment that keeps them safe, comfortable and independent at home.
