Father’s Day Gift Guide 2022

What to get for your dad on Father’s Day is a question many of ask every year. Well, we’re here to try and make shopping a breeze this time with our 2022 Father’s Day gift guide! We’ve curated everything that special dad could possibly want: from the gift of knowledge all the way to the new best seat in the house!

Kick Your Feet Up

Sometimes, it feels like dads carry a lot on their shoulders. That’s why we think the VivaLift® Atlas would be the perfect gift. The Atlas offers infinite positioning at the push of a button. Combine those positions with a power headrest, backrest, lumbar support, and footrest – and you have the most comfortable seat in the house. As an added bonus, you’ll find not one, but two cup holders strategically placed in the armrests.

Give dad a place to relax, unwind, and recharge (his USB devices too)

Atlas VivaLift! recliner chair

Speaking of Feet

If your dad enjoys luxurious comfort and has a great sense of style these UGG Ascot Slippers might be a great choice. They come in a wide variety of sizes, along with colors and materials to match any wardrobe. They look like a loafer but will give Dad the deep comfort and softness of a slipper.

Check out the selection here.

Ugg slippers in tan color

Image Source: UGG

Putting Some Real Thought Into It

Fathers tend to be “Jacks of all Trades” at times, but if he’s interested in becoming an expert, then a subscription to MasterClass may be just the right gift. There’s a huge learning catalog to choose from, including business, design, food, sports, gaming, and even community and government topics. The gift of knowledge can be priceless and affordable at the same time. Check out their plans here: https://www.masterclass.com/plans

It’s All Just History

If dad loves reading about historical times and examining old documents, this gift will keep giving (based on how long your subscription is 😊). A History by Mail subscription will deliver intriguing replicas of historical documents right to his doorstep. This is a perfect gift if you live long-distance from dad and will be a great way to catch up when you are together.

You can choose from two collections that have a six-month subscription, or get both for 12 months here.

sample of history subscription for History by Mail.

For the Traveling Dad

Traveling is something that many of us enjoy multiple times a year. Why not give dad the gift of mobility this year? Pride Mobility offers a variety of mobility scooters geared toward ensuring travel is quick, efficient, and enjoyable.

The iRIDE® is perhaps the lightest and most portable when it comes to travel scooters. It disassembles and the heaviest pieces is only 32 lbs. This is a portable scooter that can fit in the trunk of many vehicles and can be easily loaded/unloaded when you get to your destinations.

Dad can go for miles on his next trip with one of these.

Did You Remember the Accessories?

If dad already has a power wheelchair, mobility scooter, or power lift recliner, fear not! We still have ideas! Find the perfect compatible accessory.

A cell phone holder for the tech-savvy dad on the go.

Cell phone holder for wheelchairs

An XLR USB charger for the cell phone or tablet that dad always carries for those important calls.

XLR USB charger

If dad has a scooter and has things he needs to carry, we have this rear basket.

Find a dealer today to get pricing and availability on these accessories and more here.

We hope this Father’s Day gift guide helps give you some ideas for one of the most influential people in your life.

True Infinite Position

What is True Infinite Position?

Different Pride Mobility power lift recliners offer a range of positioning features. The most versatile among them are those with true infinite position capabilities.

With these power lift chairs you can independently operate the seat, lumbar and shoulder support. These chairs were meticulously engineered to give the user a comfortable experience whether you’re reading or relaxing, sleeping or stretching out.

Considering the choices you may feel like a NASA scientist studying the infinite expanse of space. Just like the black holes they’re exploring now, true infinite recliners can feel like they go in every direction into infinity. Whew!

Don’t let the endless possibilities overwhelm you. Check out our other blog, which  details the various recliner positions. The options range from a simple position like sitting with the footrest at 95 degrees to the zero gravity position, when the knees are elevated and the bottom is lowered.

Benefits of True Infinite Position

Pressure Relief

Our recliners are sized based on height and weight to ensure your legs lie just right on the footrest. This attention to detail extends to the way the chair moves. Laying back in the napping position gives the lower back the right amount of stretch.

True infinite position chairs are the only Pride recliners with zero gravity position. The zero gravity position —  when your thighs and lower legs are higher than your torso — relieves significant pressure from joints and bones.

What Pride Power Lift Recliners have True Infinite Position?

Sink into the overstuffed Oasis Collection and find your true infinite position.

Luxuriate in the many fabric options of the Infinity Collection.

Allow yourself to relax however feels right in the fabulous VivaLift! Escape Collection.

Tips for Sun Safety

Tips for Sun Safety

As the weather improves, it’s important to include sun safety in all your summer plans! May is the perfect time to review sun safety tips because it is Skin Cancer Awareness Month.

Sunburn certainly hurts, but long term and intense sun exposure can lead to skin cancer, the most common cancer in the U.S. More than 5 million Americans are diagnosed with some kind of skin cancer every year.

Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common skin cancers. Protecting yourself from the sun is the best way to avoid a BCC or SCC diagnosis.

Melanoma is the most fatal form of the disease. People with melanoma in their immediate family are more likely to be diagnosed with it. Setting aside genetics, sun  protection is essential. People with more than five sunburns have double the risk for melanoma compared to people who avoid intense sun exposure.

The science is clear: if you shield your skin from the sun, you are much less likely to get skin cancer. Let’s review some of the tools and tips you’ll need to protect your biggest organ. These tips work best when used in combinations, so please mix and match them the next time you’re outside.

Avoid Peak Sun

On clear, hot days, it’s best to stay out of direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This window is when UV rays are at their strongest. If you’re spending the day outside, this is a good time frame for lunch or an indoor break.

If you need to be outside, be aware that the sun is at its strongest and use a few of the tips below.

Seek Shade

On those days when you need to be outside in peak sun, shade is your oasis. Try to deploy an umbrella or tent if possible. Otherwise, hang out near any buildings, under trees or any place you simply catch some shade.

Shade also gives you a break. The sun can also dehydrate so be sure you’re drinking plenty of water.

Sunscreen Best Practices

  • It only takes 15 minutes to get a sunburn, so always put on sunscreen before going outside.
  • The sun can cause skin damage even if it’s not a bright sunny day. Be sure to wear sunscreen year round, even on cloudy, overcast days.
  • Find a sunscreen that has an SPF of 15 or higher and blocks both UVA and UVB rays. This info will be printed right on the bottle.
  • Apply a thick layer of sunscreen to all of your exposed skin.
  • Reapply sunscreen every two hours.
  • Reapply sunscreen after swimming and heavy sweating.
  • Remember sunscreen is just one of the tools to protect yourself from the sun.

Grab a Hat

The best hats for sun protection have a 360-degree brim that shades your face, the back of your neck and your ears. Tightly woven fabrics in dark colors are ideal for dealing with UV rays. Straw hats or mesh-backed trucker hats have holes for the sunshine to reach your skin.

People wearing baseball caps or visors should pay extra attention to their ears and the back of their necks.

Protect your Eyes with Sunglasses

Sunglasses protect your eyes and the tender skin near your eyes from UVA and UVB rays. Protecting this area lowers your risk of cataracts and skin cancer. For maximum protection, find wraparound glasses. The design deters sun rays from hitting your eye from the sides.

Cover up with Clothing

Using clothing to cover your skin is a strong sun protection tactic. Some brands make fabric that is certified for UV protection. Long-sleeved sun shirts are typically made of breathable fabric that blocks the sun.

If you don’t want to wear a long-sleeved shirt to the beach, there are a few half measures. Spending some time in a cover-up or tank top will protect big swaths of your skin from direct sun. Tightly woven fabric and dark colors deliver superior protection.

Steer Clear of Tanning Beds

Say no to tanning. There’s no such thing as a safe tan, whether you’re inside or outside. It’s a myth that indoor tanning is a safer alternative to sun tanning. Tanning beds, tanning booths, and sunlamps expose you to intense UV radiation, which increases your risk of skin cancer and skin damage.

Check the Index

The UV Index forecasts the strength of UV rays each day. If the UV index is 3 or higher in your area, protect your skin from too much exposure to the sun.

Sun Safety All Year Long

Protection from UV rays is important all year, not just during the summer. UV rays can reach you on cloudy and cool days. UV rays also reflect off of surfaces like water, snow and sand.

We Need the Sun, But Seek it Out in Moderation

We need sunshine and fresh air. Getting outside boosts our mood and sunshine is a key source of vitamin D. But, just like anything else, too much of a good thing turns into a bad thing.

Seek the sun in moderation, cover up and use sunscreen whenever possible.

What is a Medium Power Lift Recliner Chair?

What is a Medium Power Lift Recliner Chair?

When it’s time to take a break, there’s no better place to plop down than your favorite recliner chair. At Pride Mobility, we strive to deliver comfort, performance and functionality to everyone. Our commitment to quality mobility devices has earned us the honor of America’s #1 Lift Recliner Brand.

We design FDA Class II Medical Devices to aid people living with mobility impairments. With Pride you get a medical device that looks as refined as the rest of your decor. You also get a recliner chair that fits your needs, allowing you to safely sit, recline and then stand. 

One of the ways we ensure comfort and safety is through sizing.

Why does my recliner chair come in different sizes?

Some people think a chair is just a chair. Au contraire! For maximum comfort, your feet should hang just over the edge of the footrest when reclined. This allows your weight to distribute across your calves.

If your recliner chair is too big, your heels will be on the foot rest, concentrating the pressure of your weight on your heels. If your recliner chair is too small your legs will hang far beyond the edge, focusing the pressure on one spot on your calf. Both of these scenarios can lead to cramps or the uncomfortable feeling of your feet or legs falling asleep.

Many of our recliners have three-inch foot extensions. The added piece folds beyond the end of the footrest. It’s little extra support for your heels, while the majority of your weight is being distributed across your legs.

Pride recliner chairs are made with a specific body type in mind for each model and size. We offer petite models for people under 5 feet 3 inches tall.  There are XL and XXL models made for folks over 6 feet tall. The different models also have different weight capacities.

Are you a taller than average person and looking for the perfect recliner chair? Check out our selection of large power lift chairs here.

If you’re on the opposite end of the height continuum, you’re probably searching for a power lift chair for shorter people. Here is our breakdown of petite recliner chairs.

Let’s explore the medium recliner chair offerings from Pride Mobility.

Medium Recliner Chair: VivaLift! Atlas

The VivaLift! Atlas Collection includes a pair of luxurious power lift recliners. The

VivaLift! Atlas Plus – PLR-2985 and VivaLift! Atlas – PLR-985  come with infinite positioning, hideaway storage and lithium battery backup.

All these features are available for people who stand between 5 feet 4 inches and 5 feet 9 inches. Both of these recliners have a 400-pound capacity.

The  VivaLift! Atlas Plus is available exclusively in brick and mortar Pride Mobility dealers.

Medium Recliner Chair: Heritage

The Heritage Collection – LC-358 is Pride Mobility’s #1 selling collection of power lift chairs. The Heritage delivers the classic feel you expect from a comfortable recliner. It doesn’t just look classy, it delivers cutting-edge innovation via First Up technology. First Up takes the user from the sitting position all the way up to standing in half the time of most other power recliners.

There are six sizes of Heritage recliners available: small, petite wide, medium, large, XL and XXL. The medium Heritage chair is recommended for people who stand 5 feet 4 inches to 5  feet 9 inches tall and weigh less than 375 pounds.

Medium Recliner Chair: VivaLift! Radiance

VivaLift! Radiance – PLR-3955M is designed for people between 5 feet 5 inches and 6 feet one inch tall. This medium recliner chair has a 400-pound weight capacity. The Radiance Collection has infinite positioning and first-in-class heating. Three independently-operated heating pads are located in the seat, lumbar and shoulders. Melt away those aches and pains in the perfectly sized recliner chair. 

Medium Recliner Chair: VivaLift! Escape

The VivaLift! Escape – PLR-990 is available in two sizes: medium and large. The medium recliner chair is best for people between 5 feet 4 inches and 5 feet 9 inches. The large model is for people taller than 5 feet 10 inches.

The power headrest, backrest and lumbar support rely on our long-lasting  lithium battery back-up.

Medium Recliner Chair VivaLift! Tranquil

The Tranquil Collection is available in four sizes. The VivaLift! Tranquil – PLR-935-M — the medium recliner chair — is ideal for people between 5 feet 4 inches and 5 feet 9 inches tall.

This elegant faux leather chair will add to your ambiance. You can select from three colors: Astro Brown, Astro Grey and Astro Mushroom.

Medium Recliner Chair: VivaLift! Elegance

The VivaLift! Elegance – PLR-975M is suitable for any one between 5 feet 4 inches tall and 5 feet 9 inches tall, with a maximum weight of 400 pounds. This recliner chair lives up to the elegance moniker. The style is just the beginning. You’ll just love reclining with the power power headrest, backrest and footrest and a footrest extension.

Medium Recliner Chair: Infinity

Prepare to find ultimate comfort with Infinity Collection – LC-525iM infinite-position seating. The independently controlled footrest and backrest let you dial in the coordinates to Relaxation City, USA.

Medium-sized Infinity chairs are meant for people between 5 feet 4 inches and 5 feet 9 inches. This model has a 375-pound weight capacity.

Medium Recliner Chair: Oasis

The Oasis Collection – LC-580iM is one of two sizes available in this style. There is a large chair for people over 5 feet 9 inches. It has an overstuffed back and contoured, memory foam seating. It also comes in four fabrics and a rainbow of color options.

The medium recliner chair has a 375-pound capacity. It’s best for anyone between 5 feet 4 inches and 5 feet 9 inches.

Medium Recliner Chair: Essential

The Essential LC-250 is a durable, three-position power lift recliner. There is one model of this chair, designed for a height range of 5 feet 4 inches and 5 feet 9 inches. It has a comfortable 22-inch seat and 375-pound weight capacity.

Medium Recliner: Legacy

Grab the remote with easy-to-use, soft-touch buttons to control the power backrest, lumbar and headrest for ideal lounging. The footrest extension only adds to your comfort on the VivaLift! Legacy – PLR-958M.

The medium chair is one of two available options. It’s made for people standing 5 feet 4 inches to 5 feet 9 inches and weighing less than 400 pounds.

Find a Pride Mobility Dealer

Our network of Pride Mobility providers can answer any questions you have about power lift recliners — from the small chair options to our largest models. Find a Pride Mobility Dealer.

Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2022

If you haven’t picked out your Mother’s Day gift yet, don’t worry. You’ve still got time.

Not much, but you’ve still got time.

Just remember: It’s 2022, and gift giving has evolved into an art form. You can’t just get away with potted flowers anymore. You’ll need flowers and maybe candy, plus the gift and some quality time together to do it right.

So let’s cut to the chase and share some of the most thoughtful and even useful Mother’s Day gifts that will help you show how much you appreciate mom.

Apple AirTag

Even the most organized mom misplaces her wallet or keys once in a while. These little discs have more practical uses than you might think. Attach them to almost anything valuable like purses, wallets and keys.

AirTags use Apple’s vast network of users to help users keep track of their important devices.

When mom can’t find her AirTagged belongings, she simply pops open the app on her phone or computer to see where they are. If she uses an iPhone, she can use the Find My app to trigger the AirTag tone. When she’s close enough, the Find My app shows her which direction her valuables are located like a compass.

They even come with free engraving so you can send a personalized message (though perhaps not in time for Mother’s Day this year).

Find them at your local Apple Store or at Apple.com. You can also get them at bricks-and-mortar retailers like BestBuy if you’re really running out of time.

$30 for one or $99 for a four pack

iRide travel scooter

If mom has the same get-up-and-go mentality, but showing a little more difficulty with the “get up” part of that, it may be time for an iRide.

iRide provides one of the simplest, most easily transported mobility solutions for mom to use when on the go. People who use iRide still have most of their mobility, but need help from time to time. Perhaps they get fatigued a little easier during a busy day or want the option to cruise while everyone else walks.

Plus, they’re just fun to ride.

See a Pride dealer for pricing details

Retro Victrola Turntable

Every family’s got one. A collection of old LPs sitting in a closet or garage somewhere. The turntable broke an undetermined number of years ago, and the records are collecting dust in a closet somewhere.

Step 1: Throw out the old turntable (you may have to start by admitting you’re never actually going to fix it).

Step 2: Pick out an all-in-one turntable (we found this one had great ratings for sound quality and value).

Step 3: Dust off the old records and present the whole set to mom on Mother’s Day.

Then you can spend the rest of the day together with her favorite old songs playing in the background, the way she remembers them.

Victrola 8-in-one $149.98 with Amazon Prime

Jazzy Passport

Did you commit to spending more time with mom this year, exploring places she’s never been.

Jazzy Passport offers portable mobility and independence for the wheelchair user. So if mom typically uses a manual or even standard power wheelchair, surprise her with a folding Jazzy Passport. It’s lightweight, folds in a couple simple motions and easily stows just about anywhere.

She won’t leave home without it, and your whole family will have new adventures together to plan and get excited about.

See a Pride dealer for pricing details

Gravity Blanket

Gravity Blanket claims to make the original weighted blanket, which is all the craze right now in the world of gift-giving. Weighted blankets use what’s called “deep pressure stimulation,” which also happens when we get a good hug from someone we love.

Research shows weighted blankets help reduce anxiety and curb restlessness, encouraging sleep. They may alleviate chronic pain and soothe other ailments.

The same phenomenon works for dogs with high anxiety. A weighted blanket helps them stay calm during thunderstorms or fireworks.

And even if your mother doesn’t experience high anxiety or chronic pain, who wouldn’t want better sleep and the feeling of being hugged all the time?!

If mom has trouble breathing, have her check with her doctor first.

Weighted Blankets start at $249.99

MasterClass subscription

The subscription to insights from the world’s best and brightest comes at 35% for Mother’s Day. If mom’s always been the inquisitive type, a MasterClass subscription might really tickle her passion for learning.

She can learn about fiction writing from James Patterson, cooking from Gordon Ramsay or playing chess from Garry Kasparov, among a dozen other topics.

A subscription gives her access to all of them.

For Mother’s Day, MasterClass offers a 35% discount on its family package, which is valued at $23 per month and provides access to six devices. Discounted family account, $15 per month

Can You Take a Mobility Scooter on a Plane?

Can You Take a Mobility Scooter on a Plane?

Short answer? Yes, but don’t stop reading just yet.

Long answer? It takes a little more preparation and coordination with your airline.

With travel season fast approaching, now’s a good time to understand how to get your mobility scooter to your destination by the rules and in one piece.

The Federal Aviation Administration and your airline have their own sets of rules and recommendations. You’ll need to follow both if you want to make your flight, any connections and arrive at your destination.

Let’s break them down together.

What are the federal rules for traveling with a mobility scooter?

All airlines must follow these, so it makes sense to start here. There are a few of them so it’s helpful to break them down into a list. They all concern safely transporting batteries and electronics, which can be dangerous if done incorrectly.

You’ll probably have to check your scooter

Unless it’s collapsible and uses lithium ion batteries — an option on the Go Go Folding Scooter 4-Wheel and standard on the iRide — you must check your mobility device so the baggage handlers can stow it in the cargo hold. Most battery types are allowed aboard the plane, so long as they pass safety checks.

You can take a backup battery, but it might be a hassle

You can take one spare battery with you, but that must go in your carry-on. For lithium ion batteries, you can take up to two as long as each does not exceed 160 watt hours.

The airline prefers to keep your batteries installed and connected

The crew will inspect your batteries and electrical connections to make sure they’re safe. If so, you won’t need to disconnect the batteries.

Your scooter also must have some safeguard against accidental activation. That’s no problem for most devices, which require a key to start. Scooters with an on/off switch, like iRide, are also acceptable.

Trivia: Did you know federal law requires the pilot to know, before departing, that your mobility scooter is on board and where it’s located?

What are my airline’s rules for traveling with a mobility scooter?

Most airlines let passengers take their mobility devices at no extra charge. They don’t count them toward luggage allowance either.

All airlines follow FAA rules, but some have their own preferences or requests. For example, they may ask you to fill out a form.

You’ll likely have to take removable parts into the cabin with you

If your scooter has extra pieces like cushions or a phone holder, be prepared to pop them off and take them with you. Our advice: plan ahead and bring a backpack that easily fits any removable accessories.

The crew may need to disassemble your scooter

Worst case scenario, your mobility device doesn’t fit into the baggage hold door. If this happens, the crew won’t leave it behind. Instead, they’ll take it apart. The best way to ensure you get it all back in one piece is to give disassembly instructions. If you’re traveling with basically any scooter from the Go Go lineup, your step-by-step list should be pretty short thanks to Pride’s exclusive feather touch disassembly system!

Save time, call ahead

Let your airline know at least 48 hours in advance that you’re bringing a scooter and have the dimensions handy.

Most don’t require this, but it helps to ease the boarding process with a little preparation. 

Individual Airline Rules for Traveling with Mobility Scooters
American Airlines
Delta Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Spirit Airlines
United Airlines

Traveling by plane with a mobility scooter is absolutely possible and even enjoyable with the right level of planning.

Preparation could be the difference between sipping cocktails in the terminal restaurant before departure or scrambling to pack up your mobility device at the gate.

Which one sounds more relaxing to you?

Will Medicare Pay for a Mobility Scooter?

You’ve started to notice some challenges getting around and the question “will Medicare pay for a mobility scooter?” has entered your mind. Deciding to get help with mobility and understanding the process of funding a scooter can be complicated. Fortunately, there is a well-documented set of steps to get you the help you need.

As with all medical decisions, your doctor and insurance provider both play significant roles in determining what you need and what you may qualify for. This blog does not contain medical advice, rather some basic information that can serve as a jumping off point for conversations with your medical care team.

What does Medicare cover?

Medicare is a federally funded program that provides health insurance to people age 65 and over. Medicare also covers certain individuals with disabilities. Medicare covers traditional medical treatments and some equipment. One such equipment category is Durable Medical Equipment, or DME, which includes mobility devices like power wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

Medicare coverage comes with some requirements. To be eligible for Medicare coverage, DME must be designated for use primarily at home. A site visit might be needed to ensure your home can accommodate a scooter.

Medicare will also only cover mobility devices that are deemed medically necessary. Your physician is responsible for assessing your needs and writing a prescription.

Will Medicare Pay for a Mobility Scooter?

Medicare will pay for up to 80% of a mobility scooter if it is deemed medically necessary. A face-to-face visit with a doctor to assess your needs, and a written prescription are part of this determination.

Requirements for Mobility Scooter Coverage

It’s helpful to look at Medicare’s mobility options as a set of stairs. If the mobility aids on one step aren’t sufficient, you move to the next. The first step is manual mobility aids like walkers and hand-operated wheelchairs. The baseline requirements include:

  • The patient is unable to complete daily tasks such as using the bathroom and moving around the kitchen.
  • The mobility limitation is not resolved with use of a walker or cane.
  • The patient doesn’t have the requisite arm and hand strength to operate a manual wheelchair.

If a person is unable to thrive with manual aids, they could be eligible to move to the next step of using a mobility scooter. To be considered for coverage of a mobility scooter, you need to meet the following requirements.

  • The patient can safely transfer to and from the scooter.
  • The user can operate the tiller steering system.
  • The patient can stay safely seated while operating the scooter at home.
  • They have the mental and physical ability to operate the device.
  • Their home has adequate space to use the mobility scooter.
  • Using a scooter will significantly improve the patient’s ability to complete everyday tasks.
  • The patient is willing to use the mobility scooter at home.

If a mobility scooter is not the right option, then the top step is a power wheelchair.  

Steps to get Medicare Coverage for a Mobility Scooter

  1. Contact your doctor to discuss mobility aid options and make an appointment.
  2. Prepare a list of real examples that show exactly what ways a mobility scooter will help you achieve a typical lifestyle.
  3. Have a face-to-face consultation with your physician about mobility options. Medicare accepts in-person and virtual appointments. Your doctor will use the parameters above to determine your medical need.
  4. Your doctor will write a Standard Written Order or prescription. This document includes the patient’s name, the date of the order, and the doctor’s name and signature
  5. Your physician will submit the Standard Written Order and all supporting documents to the supplier, who will forward to Medicare for prior authorization.
  6. If everything is received and accepted, your mobility scooter should be covered by Medicare.

Additional questions? Call our customer service line at 800-800-4258 on Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.

* Pride FDA Class II Medical Devices are designed to aid individuals with mobility impairments.*  

What is an offboard charger?

Pride Mobility Devices Use Off-Board Chargers

In a world teeming with rechargeable electronic devices, you’ve likely heard mention of off-board chargers and on-board chargers. The jargon can be a little hard to follow. 

Let’s catch you up on all charger-related topics, especially those that pertain to Pride Mobility scooters and power wheelchairs.

Off-Board Chargers vs. On-Board Chargers

The distinction between off-board chargers and on-board chargers is pretty basic. On-board chargers are housed entirely within the device. This technology is commonly used in electric cars.

Off-board chargers — as you may have guessed — are located outside the unit itself. Often, off-board chargers have a block between two cords — one that plugs into a wall outlet and the other that plugs into the mobility device.

What is an Off-Board Charger?

An off-board charger plugs into a wall outlet, which supplies alternating current (AC) power. AC power is the current that powers anything you plug straight into the wall like a hair dryer, blender or space heater. Rather than using the power right away like those devices, an off-board charger collects the AC power from the grid and converts it to direct current or DC power.

DC power delivers consistent voltage, but cannot travel far distances. It wouldn’t stay intact on the journey from power plant to the grid and ultimately to your home, the way AC power does.

When it comes to devices like cell phones and mobility devices, the charger acts as a converter. Once the AC power becomes DC power it can be stored in the battery. The battery then doles out DC power to your mobility scooter or power wheelchair.

What Pride Mobility Devices Use Off-Board Chargers?

Pride Mobility uses off-board chargers for our Jazzy power wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

Pride’s line of power lift recliners use AC power — allowing them to function using electricity directly from the wall outlet. In case of a power outage, our lift chairs have a 9-volt battery backup standard. Lithium-ion battery backup — a longer-lasting alternative — is available on select models.

How to Use an Off-Board Charger?

The majority of our power wheelchairs and electric scooters charge the same way. Position the device next to a standard electrical outlet. Once you’ve ensured the device is off, plug the off-board charger into the charger port and then into the wall. Once charging is complete — between eight and 14 hours later — unplug the charger from the outlet and then the controller.

The battery pack on some mobility scooters can be easily removed from the unit. In that case, you can plug the battery unit into the on-board charger without needing to drive the scooter up to the wall outlet. When charging a scooter’s battery pack, follow the above steps for plugging and unplugging it.


How to Order a New Charger?

Whenever you need replacement parts or accessories, contact your local Pride Mobility Dealer, or visit an online retailer. When you contact a provider, the more details you have about your device, the better.

Jot down the model name, serial number and charger type. Pride dealers will likely be able to get you a replacement charger based on the model name, but again, more info is better than less. Find a list of scooter charger types here. You can find specifics about your wheelchair battery the your manual.

How to Select Power Lift Recliner Fabric

Buying a Pride Mobility power lift recliner is a big decision. First, you’re bringing home an FDA Category II Medical Device. That brings a series of choices including size and functionality to meet your needs. You’re also selecting a new piece of furniture. With that you have decor, style and fabric to consider.

Pride Mobility delivers top-of-the-line medical devices that double as beautiful recliners. Our array of power lift recliners fit any style from classic to contemporary. No matter your style, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re matching an existing aesthetic or building your style around a new recliner, the basic fabric comes into play pretty quickly. Do you want a leather look or fabric upholstery? Let’s check out the options.

Faux Leather Power Lift Recliners

First, we should address the absence of genuine leather in our lineup. As medical device manufacturers, we take cleanliness seriously. Real leather can’t stand up to regular cleaning the way our synthetic materials can. In fact, we offer fabrics that maintain their leather look and feel even after frequent cleanings.

Within the faux leather category, we have an exciting range of options from the stately leather recliner look to comfy synthetic suede.

UltraLeather

UltraLeather has a polyurethane surface with a 100% rayon backing that beautifully mimics the finest premium leather. The Ultrafabrics Inc. faux leather is luxurious to the touch and the eyes. It’s made with layers of grain that present an authentic look with top notch texture and depth.

UltraLeather also solves an age-old problem with leather and vinyl fabrics. It is resistant to temperature changes. So depending on the time of year, you’re freed from a hot, sweaty seat or a chilly one. Along with comfort, UltraLeather delivers an antimicrobial surface that is designed for frequent soap and water cleanings.

You can choose UltraLeather fabric on the following power lift recliner models: VivaLift! Escape, Oasis Collection, Infinity Collection and Heritage Collection.

The Escape comes in buff or fudge color, while the other three have additional options of charcoal, garnet and pecan.

Sta-Kleen

Sta-Kleen Performance Fabric is as durable as it is stunning. It looks like a classic faux leather, but performs like a top-level stain-resistant fabric. This 100% polyurethane material is antimicrobial as well as stain and fade resistant.

Sta-Kleen is an available option for the Oasis Collection, Infinity Collection and Heritage Collection. You can select from black, burgundy, chestnut or mushroom.

Badlands

Badlands is the standard fabric for the VivaLift! Elegance, VivaLift! Atlas and VivaLift! Atlas Plus collections. It has a tight grain appearance and a slight shine. It is made from 98% polyester and 2% polyurethane. Badlands fabric is available in mushroom, steel and walnut.

Astro

The VivaLift! Tranquil collection delivers a soft, textured leather appearance via the exquisite Astro fabric. This 100% polyester material comes in brown, grey and mushroom.

Canyon

Canyon is the standard faux leather on the VivaLift! Radiance Collection. Radiance has three heating pads — at the shoulder, lumbar and seat — so the temperature control you get from 100% polyester is essential. This classic recliner has an overstuffed look with pronounced stitching. Canyon fabric comes in ocean, silt, steel and walnut.

Stonewash

VivaLift! Urbana is the lone collection with standard stonewash fabric. Stonewash has a suede finish and a slightly different color palette with mossy, gunmetal and granite. This plushy power lift recliner has 100% polyester fabric.

Fabric Upholstered Power Lift Recliners

Faux leather and suede isn’t for everyone. A soft woven fabric can provide the look and comfort you’re looking for. Just like our leather-like upholstery, the fabric side of the coin has a good selection to choose from. Check out the features and colors below.

Crypton

Crypton Super Fabrics are the ultimate in stain defense. This patented polyester fabric is odor, spill, stain and bacteria-resistant. Spills won’t spoil your day. The fabric can easily be wiped clean. Don’t take our word for it. Crypton stands by their product, offering a five-year warranty on the moisture barrier.

This versatile and comfortable fabric is an upgrade for the following models: Oasis Collection, Infinity Collection, Heritage Collection. The color options for these collections include: cool grey, espresso, red and sand.

Cloud 9

Cloud 9 fabric has a distinguished texture and a heavy weave pattern. This easy-to-clean, 100% polyester fabric comes standard on the Essential and Heritage collections. Our most versatile fabric comes in walnut, stone, pacific and cherry.

If you need the XXL Heritage model, your Cloud 9 fabric options are limited to stone and walnut.

Saratoga

The Oasis Collection has several fabric upgrade options, including UltraLeather. Saratoga — the line’s standard fabric — is a plush medium weave. Saratoga fabrics are available in an appealing set of colors including cashmere, charcoal, eggplant, godiva and navy.

Saville

Saville is your best option if a tightly weaved fabric with a near velvet feel is your preference. This 100% polyester fabric comes standard on the VivaLift! Legacy and VivaLift! Metro.

The Legacy is an elegant and cozy recliner chair, available in brown, grey and wine.

The Metro has a modern, streamlined design, which is available in brown and grey.

Check out the Fabric Guide

If you’ve already locked in the lift chair you want based on your need, the power lift recliner fabrics guide is a great resource. It has a complete list of fabrics and colors organized by collection.

Find a Pride Mobility Dealer

Pride Mobility providers stock our power lift recliners. They are also very knowledgeable about our product lines. Visit a dealer to purchase a recliner or get more information. You can use the Find a Dealer feature on our website to locate a provider in your area. You can also check out our list of online retailers at the bottom of the dealer locator page. They provide the same quality and expertise as our brick and mortar dealers.