Meet the VivaLift!® Ultra 

Meet the VivaLift!® Ultra 

Today’s shoppers have nearly countless options to choose from while searching for the perfect power lift chair. But, when it comes to advanced functions, features and aesthetics, there’s simply no better choice than Pride Mobility’s VivaLift!® Ultra lift chair.  

There’s so much to love about the VivaLift!® Ultra: It comes in three size configurations (all of which optimize available space), offers True-Infinite positioning for maximum comfort and features various bells and whistles that support improved quality of life (like heat and massage).  

But these are just the tip of the iceberg.  

In this guide, we’re exploring everything the VivaLift!® Ultra has to offer those looking to maximize their mobility.  

Features You’ll Love 

The VivaLift!® Ultra achieves the primary purpose of power lift chairs: its motorized mechanism is designed to help you stand from a seated position, sit from a standing position or easily transfer to another mobility tool, like a power wheelchair, scooter or walker.  

But what else does this innovative lift chair have to offer? Let’s break down its key features. 

True-Infinite Positioning 

As you shop for lift chairs, you’ll encounter a variety of positioning options. 2-position, 3-position and zero-gravity are some of the most common.  

The VivaLift!® Ultra offers True-Infinite positioning, which: 

  • Allows users to customize the angles of the headrest, footrest and backrest to achieve truly infinite positioning combinations 
  • Gives users the opportunity to lay completely flat 
  • Provides extra comfort by giving users individual headrest and footrest control, even if users want to raise their feet above their heart level 

Small Space Compatibility 

If you’re looking for a power lift chair for your bedroom or a small living room space, the VivaLift!® Ultra is an excellent choice.  

The distance-from-wall measurement is a critical consideration for people with limited space. It describes the minimum allowable distance between the back of the backrest and the closest wall. The VivaLift!® Ultra comes in three sizes, but each one offers a relatively small distance-from-wall metric: 

  • The small size requires 15 inches of clearance 
  • The medium size also only needs 15 inches 
  • The large size needs 21.5 inches 

While the small and medium models feature some of the smallest distance-to-wall requirements on the market today, the large model is still quite efficient for its size class.  

Size Features 

As mentioned above, the VivaLift!® Ultra comes in three sizes, each with individual specifications. Here’s a table for comparison: 

Size Model Height Range Weight Capacity Chair Height Chair Width 
Small 5 foot 4 inches and below 400 pounds 41 inches 37 inches 
Medium 5 foot 5 inches to 6 foot 1 inch 400 pounds 43 inches 39 inches 
Large 5 foot 10 inches and taller 400 pounds 47 inches 39 inches 

Simply put, the VivaLift!® Ultra comes in sizes that are compatible with most users, from very petite to very tall.  

For users weighing more than 400 pounds, fortunately Pride Mobility offers a variety of higher-weight capacity power lift chairs.  

Design Elements 

The VivaLift!® Ultra is one of the most stylish power lift chairs on today’s market, and it would make an excellent addition to any living space. Plus, its modern design pairs well with a variety of existing furniture styles.  

Some design highlights include: 

  • The fully-padded, quilted chaise 
  • Four standard fabric options: 
  • Capriccio Smoke 
  • Capriccio Cappuccino 
  • Capriccio Dove 
  • Capriccio Slate 
  • A built-in, low-profile heat and massage remote on the inside of the armrest 

Bells and Whistles 

While the features above support functionality and appearance, the VivaLift! Ultra also showcases the peak of power lift chair technology. The additional features below don’t necessarily impact the lift functionality of the chair, but they do have the potential to make life just a little bit better.  

The VivaLift!® Ultra includes: 

  • A hidden cup holder that tucks into the armrest when it’s not in use 
  • A hidden wireless phone charger 
  • A wired, ergonomically-designed remote 
  • A lithium battery backup, so you can still use your chair during a power outage 
  • A gentle massage system with three intensity settings 
  • Three different heating pads in the shoulders, lumbar and seat 

The heated pads and a gentle massage can help soothe your everyday aches and pains and enhance your relaxation experience.  

Shop For The Vivalift!® Ultra At A Pride Mobility Dealer Near You 

Simply put, the VivaLift!® Ultra power lift chair is second to none. Featuring the best in positioning technology, multiple size-efficient models and mechanisms that support your quality of life, this power lift chair elevates your experience. 

Why is the VivaLift!® Ultra such an innovative, functional lift chair? Because it was designed for and by people just like you: users who rely on mobility technologies in their everyday lives. At Pride Mobility, we work with designers, scientists and medical professionals who understand today’s mobility challenges.  

To discover more about the VivaLift!® Ultra, and the rest of our power lift chair line, explore our catalog online or find a Pride Mobility dealer near you. 

How to Get the Most Out of Your Lift Chair

How to Get the Most Out of Your Lift Chair

Is there anything more enticing than a comfortable lift chair? As a matter of fact, there is: A lift chair that caters to your every need and lasts.

When you take the time to learn about, care for and make the most of your lift chair, you can enjoy comfort, versatility and durability we take pride in.

Here are a few tips for experiencing the benefits of owning a lift chair to the fullest.

Number 1: Care for the Fabric

A lift chair’s fabric is what makes your favorite seat look and feel so appealing. When you properly care for the upholstery, your comfy chair will last longer (and look better to boot).

One of the best ways to extend the life of your lift chair is to learn how to clean it. Because you’ll come in contact with the chair’s fabric every day, it won’t stay spotless forever.

Keeping a lift chair cleaning kit nearby can help you quickly handle an accident. Our Crypton cleaning kit comes with a brush, a bleach-free disinfectant cleaner and three different solutions for removing stains and odors. If you don’t have a manufacturer-approved cleaning kit handy, spot cleaning with mild soap and water will work in a pinch.

Finally, try to keep your lift chair out of direct sunlight. Over time, the sun’s rays can cause almost any fabric to fade[1]. Something as simple as closing your curtains while you’re out can keep your upholstery looking good as new.

Number 2: Customize and Accessorize Your Chair

To really make the most of your lift chair, take the time to personalize it.

Your quest for comfort starts with buying the perfect chair. For example, if you like extra leg support, you may want a power lift recliner with a footrest extension. Depending on your height, you’ll need a small, medium, or large chair to comfortably rest your calves on the footrest.

Maybe you prefer a chair with heat and massage functions. Or perhaps you like the freedom of an infinite position lift chair. By visiting a mobility device dealer, you can test several chairs and choose your favorite.

Once you’re satisfied with your base model, you can customize it with:

[1] Library of Congress. Why does ultraviolet light cause color to fade? https://www.loc.gov/everyday-mysteries/physics/item/why-does-ultraviolet-light-cause-color-to-fade/

  • Additional pillows – For extra neck support, try a matching head pillow. For some lower back love, consider a lumbar pillow. For more back and arm support, use a bolster pillow. With additional cushions, you can customize the look and feel of your lift chair.
  • Non-skid leg levelers – If your lift chair sits on hardwood or tile, it may slowly migrate across the room. With non-skid leg levelers, you can keep your chair firmly in place and account for uneven flooring.

Number 3: Read Your Owner’s Manual

Every lift chair comes with a detailed product manual. While it may not be as exciting as your latest novel, we recommend reading the owner’s manual from cover to cover. This guide offers general advice for all lift chairs, but your manual will provide specific information about your exact model.

Owner’s manuals typically include essential details like:

  • Important safety information
  • A “how-to” guide for setting up your lift chair
  • Tips for using the chair
  • Care instructions
  • Troubleshooting steps

After you’ve glanced through your manual, be sure to keep it somewhere accessible — you never know when you’ll need to consult it! With that said, if you ever lose your owner’s manual, don’t fret: Manuals for all of our products are always available online.

Number 4: Note Your Serial Number

It’s rare for something to go wrong with your lift chair. However, if you ever need to schedule a maintenance appointment or order a replacement part, you’ll need to know your serial number.

On a Pride Mobility lift chair, your serial number is on the frame of your chair. It’s also in your owner’s manual. Our serial numbers begin with an “L” and are 14 characters long.

Once you locate your serial number, write it down. That way, if you ever need it, you won’t have to bend over to check the chair frame.

Make the Most of Your Lift Chair with Pride Mobility

To get the most out of your lift chair, you need to get the best chair. At Pride Mobility, we pride ourselves on designing stylish, comfortable, easy-to-use power lift chairs for everyone to enjoy. Your local Pride Mobility dealer can help you choose and customize your lift chair. Once your new favorite chair is in your home, you can follow our tips to keep it in tip-top shape and get every ounce of enjoyment out of it.

What is the Difference Between a Recliner and a Lift Chair?

What is the Difference Between a Recliner and a Lift Chair?

Whether everyone in your circle is getting one or you’re simply looking for a much-needed living room upgrade, a lift chair can make a great choice that is both functional and stylish.

But, as you begin your search for the chair with the best features, the coziest cushions, and (of course) the colors and fabrics that will perfectly complement your living room, you might not really know what separates the lift chair from its close relative — the recliner.

In this guide, we’re breaking down some key differences between the two. While a recliner might offer some of the functions you’re looking for (like a controllable footrest), a lift chair might be a better match for your mobility needs.

What Is A Recliner?

A recliner features two key components:[1]

  1. A backrest that reclines to create a more relaxed sitting position
  2. A footrest that rises to prop up your legs while you sit

But, recliners aren’t always standalone chairs. You can also find reclining seats in:

  • Loveseats (where one or both of the “seats” recline and offer a footrest)
  • Multi-seat sofas (where one or more seats act as recliners, but non-reclining seats are included in the construction)

While some recliners offer additional features — like cupholders, USB chargers and motorized backrests and footrests — they’re still distinct from lift chairs.

What Makes A Lift Chair Different From A Recliner?

Although recliners can be motorized, a lift chair offers a distinct motorized feature — a lift mechanism that helps you stand up from a seated position.[2]

While both recliners and lift chairs can help you kick back and relax, only a lift chair can help you get back on your feet. Let’s explore more details about what separates the lift chair from the recliner.

The Lift Mechanism

A lift mechanism is a unique feature of a lift chair. This motorized component raises the seat, tilts the chair and moves the footrest out of the way to help you gradually stand upright after sitting (or reclining) in the chair.

Why might you need this lift mechanism in your next piece of furniture?

  • You’re looking for a stationary chair that provides extra stability when you’re transitioning to your wheelchair or walker.
  • You recently had surgery and you need extra support while standing up (and sitting back down) during the healing process.
  • You need extra help standing up to answer the door, use the bathroom or grab a glass of water from the kitchen while you’re relaxing in the living room.

No matter the reason, lift chairs can help you stand up with extra stability and ease.

[1] Home Questions Answered. What Is a Recliner?. https://www.homequestionsanswered.com/what-is-a-recliner.htm

[2] WebMD. What to Know About Lift Chairs. https://www.webmd.com/health-insurance/what-to-know-about-lift-chairs

Ergonomic Features

In most recliners, the footrest and the backrest move as one unit — when the backrest reclines, the footrest rises higher.

But, lift chairs offer more ergonomic freedom. Two particular types of lift chairs offer increased ergonomic control:

  1. In infinite position lift chairs, the backrest and the footrest are independently controlled, giving you the freedom to put your feet up as high as you’d like while remaining upright.
  1. In two-position lift chairs, the backrest doesn’t recline far enough to lay completely flat — the chair provides additional support for people who want to remain mostly upright in their chair.

Insurance Coverage

While recliners typically aren’t covered by health insurance policies, a portion of lift chairs can be. Since lift chairs are mobility tools (just like wheelchairs and walkers), people with mobility conditions documented by a healthcare provider could receive financial support from their insurer when it’s time to purchase a lift chair.

Medicare, for instance, may cover up to 80% of the cost of the lift mechanism in a lift chair. But, you must meet their criteria. We recommend the best way to determine if you can get a portion of your lift chair funded is to speak with your doctor and insurance company to assess your specific needs and options.

Pride Mobility Lift Chairs

Pride Mobility lift chairs bring comfort, reliability and relaxation to your daily life. We offer a lift chair for every lifestyle in eye-catching colors and designs.

The Heritage Collection, for instance, offers two-position lift chairs in more than a dozen fabric options and a broad range of other customization features.

If you’re looking for a lift chair that can lay flat, check out our infinite position model — the VivaLift! Atlas Plus , these chairs offer unmatched comfort and countless configurations.

We also offer three models with heat and massage options, including the Infinity Collection chairs. Infinity chairs offer independently controlled backrests and footrests, an optional backup battery and a USB charging port.

Find a Pride Dealer—and the Perfect Lift Chair

When it’s time to replace your armchair or add a new one to your living space, a lift chair can give you the relaxation options you’re looking for and the mobility support you need to stay active.

At Pride Mobility, we offer the best lift chairs, electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters on the market today. Our products are made with you in mind — we work closely with the people who use our products to offer the features and tech that meet your everyday needs.

When you’re ready to purchase a lift chair, find a Pride dealer near you.

 

Mother-in-Law Day Gift Guide

Best Gifts for Your Mother-in-Law in 2022

It’s true: Mother-in-Law Day does not get the same global attention, have the same historical significance or get the same kind of commercialization as Mother’s Day in May.

For a lot of people, mothers-in-law play an outsize part in their lives, and they deserve to be celebrated, so that’s what we’re going to do.

Brief History

In 1934, an Amarillo, Texas, newspaper editor started celebrating Mother-In-Law Day. It caught on and an industry group of florists cemented it on the calendar, for the fourth Sunday in October, a few decades later.

Yes, just like the other Mother’s Day, Mother-in-Law Day has its roots squarely in retail and gift giving.

10 Great Gifts for Mother-in-Law Day

10. Give a Greeting Card for Mother-in-Law Day

Of course, Hallmark wouldn’t leave this stone unturned. Maybe not as a standalone gift, but a special card for Mother-in-Law Day shows you took the time to find something especially for her. 

$2.99 – $7.59

9. Treat Her With A Mother-in-Law Charm

Couple your greeting card with a special charm for your MIL. Pandora has one for its bracelets with a heartfelt inscription: “Lucky to have you.”

$44.99 (sale price)

8. Accessorize Her Ride

Great gifts can have practical utility.

If your mother-in-law rides a Pride Mobility scooter, a new accessory like a cane holder or cell phone mount will simplify her experience and make it more enjoyable.

Check out Pride Mobility’s full list of scooter accessories.

Prices vary by provider

7. Give Her the Gift of Literature for Listening

Audiobooks give the power of mystery, romance, history and self-improvement in anybody’s hands — err, ears. Your mother-in-law can enjoy her favorite titles from Audible’s vast library with a one-year gift subscription.

$150 with 12-month discount

6. Give to the Unstoppable Adventurer

These days more people are longing for new experiences. An Airbnb gift card kicks the spirit of adventure into high gear. Your mother-in-law can pick from thousands of unique destinations and see someplace new.

Whether you go along for the ride, that’s up to her.

Price varies

5. Give Your MIL a Jazzy Carbon Portable Power Wheelchair

Mobility reimagined might be the greatest gift of all. New this year, the Jazzy Carbon is Pride Mobility’s most portable power wheelchair. It’s made with ultralight, ultra strong carbon fiber and folds up into a single piece.

If your mother-in-law has been hinting she needs a little mobility support, but doesn’t want to give up her go-anywhere lifestyle, you’ve got to check out Jazzy Carbon.

Price varies by provider

4. Give Her Control in the Kitchen with a Meal Kit Subscription

You don’t have to look far to find dozens of meal kit subscriptions. Each kit arrives fully loaded with portions and ingredients, perfect for someone who’s cleaned out the nest but still wants to explore new experiences.

Home Chef is a top-rated subscription for older people because it’s so customizable.

Many (including Home Chef) start with a free trial, so you can try it out before committing to buying your mother-in-law a subscription.

Price varies by subscription

3. Show Some Care for Your MIL’s Self-Care Routine

Subscriptions give your mother-in-law a regular reminder about how much you care, and this self-care kit from TheraBox is all about wellness. Each box includes an activity and products to help relax, reduce stress and recharge.

$39 per month with savings for multi-month pre-play plans

2. An Elegant Box of Chocolate

No, not a box of chocolate from the drug store, pick something fancy that will give her a unique, exotic experience. We found this box of Parisian chocolate from La Maison Du Chocolat that looks almost too good to eat.

$75

1. The Ultimate Relaxation Gift for Your Mother-in-Law

If you’re truly committed to wowing your mother-in-law, you probably skipped down here to the No. 1 spot right away.

Anyone who loves their MIL enough to give her the warming comfort of a VivaLift! Radiance power lift recliner, probably shows her often enough that they don’t even need the gift for Mother-in-Law Day.

But we’re here for the gifts, right?

Radiance features warming pads on the seat and back, infinite recline, a hideaway cupholder and hideaway wireless device charging port and comes in luxurious, easy to clean colors.

Need we say more?

Price varies based on provider

Benefits of a Swivel Seat on A Mobility Scooter or Power Wheelchair

The swivel seat on your mobility scooter or power shows up when it matters most.

Let’s paint a picture. Your cousins visit from out of state, and they really want breakfast at the same cafe where you all hung out in college. They swear they’re not leaving without stopping by.

It’s a hole-in-the-wall kind of place that has a $2 breakfast special with toast, eggs and home fries. It’s nothing fancy and the coffee is weak, but that’s not why you go.

You all love it there because while the world around has changed so much since college, this little cafe still sells a decent breakfast for two bucks.

But just like the rest of the world, you’ve changed, too

Since you began using a Go Go Elite Traveller 3-Wheel, you started planning ahead when you go out. You want to make sure your destinations have scooter-accessible facilities because some places — including your favorite college breakfast spot — are still not very accessible.

Most notably, the tight walkways between tables might make parking your mobility scooter tricky, so much so that at first you try to turn your guests toward a different restaurant.

But wait! Your Go Go Elite has a swivel seat, which means your scooter can occupy just about the same amount of space as a seated person.

Your clever cousins suggest you can just sidle up to an open table and turn your seat.

Breakfast saved!

Nearly all Pride Mobility scooters have swivel seats, and they do a whole lot more than give you access to tightly-spaced diner tables.

Here’s a look at some of the reasons you should make sure your next mobility scooter has a swivel seat.

Climbing aboard and disembarking from a scooter swivel seat

A swivel seat positions you away from the tiller and the scooter floor so there’s just you and the ground.

If you have limited mobility, this option can be especially useful when climbing aboard or getting out of your seat.

To disembark Simply rotate the swivel seat outwards using the under-seat lever, plant your feet on the solid ground, support yourself with the armrests or a helper, and climb out.

To get in Do the reverse. Rotate, support yourself with the armrests or a helper and back in. Turn back toward the tiller and you’re ready to roll!

Playing with grandkids from your mobility scooter

A swivel seat unlocks playtime with your grandkids simply by letting you face them without leaving your chair.

Turn and play catch with an inflated ball, or let them show you their new favorite video game or climb up on your lap. It’s so much easier without the scooter tiller in the way.

Likewise, swiveling in your seat lets you have conversations with adults without all that hardware in between.

Watching outdoor performances from your swivel seat

Your mobility scooter’s swivel chair doubles as portable outdoor furniture!

When you’re at the park to hear a local jazz band play, or watching your niece’s dance recital at the amphitheater, your swivel chair gives you the best seat in the house.

Pride Mobility scooters with swivel seats

Perhaps the easiest way to do this would be to list which mobility scooters do not have swivel seats, nearly all of them do!

The ultra portable Go Go ES2 3-Wheel, the Go Go Folding Scooter 4-Wheel and the iRide scooter don’t have swivel seats. 

In addition, the Baja Raptor 2, soon to be released, won’t have a swivel seat. Otherwise, pick out your favorite with confidence it has this feature.

Pride Mobility power wheelchairs with a swivel seat

Even though a power wheelchair has no tiller or floor, riders enjoy the option to turn in their seats without moving the whole chair.

So most Pride Mobility electric wheelchairs also have swivel chairs.

You’ll find them on nearly all of the Jazzy lineup as well as the more portable Go Chair and Go Chair Med.

A few models that don’t have swivel seats include Jazzy Air 2 elevating wheelchairs and Pride’s heavy duty wheelchairs.

Talk to your Pride dealer about swivel seat options

A swivel seat on your scooter or wheelchair gives you options and empowers you to get the most out of your day.

If you’re ready to turn and see what life is like with mobility reimagined, contact a Pride Mobility dealer today and be sure to ask about models that have swivel seats.

Accessible Camping with the Baja Wrangler 2

7 Ways to Have the Best Accessible Camping Experience

It’s been a summer of outdoor adventure at Pride Mobility. With the launch of the new Baja Mobility lineup, we’re obsessed with finding new ways to explore the natural world.

The latest in mobility technology makes spending more time outside possible, and perhaps the shining star of the new collection is the Baja Wrangler 2. Its rugged design, powerful handling and suspension technology give you access to the deepest destinations.

With summer winding down, you might be looking for some last opportunities to squeeze in a camping trip before the kids  go back to school and the nights get chilly again.

1. Find a wheelchair-accessible campground

The website The Manual published a great master list last year for the best wheelchair-accessible campgrounds in the country. Check that out here.

If none of those are close to you, or if you want other options, franchise campgrounds like Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park and KOA offer a pretty standardized experience. KOA parks typically have great reviews and awesome amenities, while Jellystone Parks are usually better for kids with scheduled activities. Many Jellystone campgrounds have water parks.

State parks — a mainstay for the casual camper — must make accommodations for campers with disabilities by federal law, though some places may offer a bare minimum like accessible restrooms. So it may still feel like roughing it, but for most campers, that’s the idea!

If the thought of roughing it for a few nights just sparked your imagination, walk-in campsites offer the most rugged, unplugged experience.

They’re typically away from the parking lot with lots of space between you and other campers and no traffic passing by.

We recommend calling the park office first to inquire about trail conditions for walk-in camping. Depending on the park, you might actually need an all-terrain mobility device like the Baja Wrangler 2 since you’ll have to navigate a trail to get there.

2. Pick a tent with a screen room so you can park your wheelchair or scooter

Depending on your level of mobility you at least want a tent with space to keep your battery-powered mobility scooter or power wheelchair out of the wind and rain.

We checked out the Coleman WeatherMaster 6-person tent, available on Amazon. The screened-in area will keep the rain off your gear while you sleep, and also offer some shade and protection from bugs while you relax outside. Any good survivalist will advise you to pick gear that has multiple uses, and the WeatherMaster definitely checks more than one box.

If you need to get your wheelchair or scooter inside the tent — or have trouble stepping over obstacles — watch out for tents that have a high bottom lip at the door. Most tent door flaps start a few inches off the ground to prevent water and critters from getting inside.

That could make it more challenging to enter your tent if you have limited mobility or if you need to drive your scooter or wheel into the tent.

You likely won’t find one without a lip, but look for one with a lower, wider lip and, if necessary, flop a heavy door mat over it to press it down.

3. Pack a cot

Overpacking can quickly make a fun camping trip feel like a chore, but, you probably need certain items to make it enjoyable

If you have to splurge on one bulky item, make it the cot. GearLab has an exhaustive and up-to-date review of camping cots to help inform your decision. Most are under $100 and worth every penny because they make going to bed much simpler.

A bad night’s sleep on the hard earth can really spoil a camping trip, so make sure you’re going to be comfortable and get enough Zs.

4. Figure out how much privacy you’ll need while camping

Privacy while camping is important, so shopping around for something that will fit your needs requires taking many things into consideration like rooms, windows, doors, etc.

Some tents have room dividers. If yours doesn’t, you might try a changing tent like this one we found on Amazon. It’s relatively inexpensive and it could make the difference between some awkward moments and discreet comfort while camping.

5. Plan accessible activities for the day

Getting to your campsite, setting up and settling in is fun, but then what happens?

Some parks have activities all day that will give you lots to do. Others have nearby attractions. Pick one or two things to try each day but don’t overdo it.

Camping gives you the chance to slow down and soak up nature. That’s easier to do when you don’t pack your days full of activities.

6. Make sure you can charge your mobility device

If you head out with a full charge on your Baja Wrangler 2, you should have plenty of power to get through a one-night camping trip with your power wheelchair or mobility scooter. The Wrangler 2, after all, has a max 24.2-mile capacity per charge.

However, if you plan on staying out in the wild longer, or have a scooter with a lower per-charge capacity, you’ll want to do some sleuthing beforehand and find a suitable place to plug in to get a full charge.

7. Start slow

Camping, especially tent camping, takes adjusting because we’re so accustomed to our own routines, our own beds and our own bathrooms.

Sleeping outside exposes us to new bumps and noises in the dark. You’re out there with all the bugs and animals and, perhaps most intimidating, other campers. There’s wind and (hopefully not too much) rain to consider.

You’re out in the unfiltered natural world, which some people find exhilarating while others would rather do anything else.

Plan a one-night camping trip at a park nearby to see how you like it. If you find yourself champing at the bit to do more camping, try a two-night weekend next.

Pride scooters — your passport to camping fun!

We talked a lot about the Baja Wrangler 2, but plenty of other Pride Mobility scooters can carry you out to the wilderness.

The Go-Go Sport 4-Wheel and Zero Turn 10 4-Wheel scooters both offer beefy tires and suspension systems that handle gravelly or grassy paths easily.  If you’re shopping for a new mobility device to start new adventures, call your local Pride dealer today and make sure they know you plan to try camping and exploring

Upgrade Your Experience with Electric Wheelchair Accessories

Owning a Pride Mobility electric wheelchair comes with a lot of perks. There are the givens like a safe and comfortable ride, of course. But there are also tons of opportunities to personalize your experience.  We offer a wide array of electric wheelchair accessories for you to choose from as well!

It starts with our deep roster of electric wheelchairs.

The Jazzy family of power wheelchairs is as diverse as your kin. There’s the foldable Jazzy Passport for your sister Allie, who won’t let mobility challenges cancel her travel plans.

On the other end of the spectrum there are more robust models like the Jazzy Elite HD. Uncle Chuck won’t miss a task around the farm as he glides from chore to chore on 14-inch knobby tires.

Jazzy wheelchairs have adjustable components to personalize your ride. Depending on the model, you may be able to maneuver the armrests or footrests. You’ll be riding in comfort all day with limbs properly supported.

The final step is to upgrade your experience with electric wheelchair accessories. Lots of companies sell aftermarket accessories, but choosing Pride Mobility means your gear is designed to match the device, and that you’ll have customer support when using it.

Upgrade Your Leg rests

We offer three accessories that are designed to give your lower extremities some extra support.

Pride Mobility Swing-Away Leg rests deliver versatility and ease. These upgraded leg rests (available on select models)  swing out of the way while you get on or off the chair. That eliminates an extra obstacle while you transition to the toilet or bed. They can also allow you to pull up closer to a surface like a table or a desk.

Even our accessories are customizable. Swing-away leg rests are available with either a 7.25-inch by 6-inch footplate or 8.5-inch by 6-inch footplate. Once installed, you can position your new leg rests between 60 and 90 degrees. They are adjustable in 5-degree increments.

Elevating Leg rests  are designed for ultimate adjustability (available on select models). You can find your ideal position anywhere between 70 and 180 degrees. When dialed into 180 degrees, the leg rests are level with the seat, meaning your legs would be extended straight out. These leg rests also come with calf pads to offer additional support.

Heel Loops add an extra level of support, while keeping your foot in position. They prevent your foot from slipping off the back of the footrest. As you probably guessed, the straps are adjustable. The standard loops will accommodate Allie’s size 6 flats and Uncle Chuck’s size 14 boots. 

Pride Mobility Heel Loops are compatible with our standard leg rests as well as the elevating and swing-away models we talked about above.

Cell Phone Accessories

The one accessory we all seem to keep with us 24/7 is our cell phones. Pride Mobility offers two cell-phone related accessories that will keep your phone nearby and fully charged.

Give your phone a designated spot with a RAM X-Grip Cell Phone Holder. Secure your phone in the rubber-coated holder and go about your business.

The cell phone holder is between 2.25 inches and 4.25 inches tall, and between 1.88 inches and 3.25 inches wide. Those specs match up with most phones on the market today.

As we all know, a cell phone without a charge is just a paperweight. Stay connected with a XLR USB Charger. This universal charger works with most Apple and Android phones.

The XLR automatically turns off when the mobile device is fully charged. This preserves your wheelchair battery.

Maximize Mobility with Swing-Away Joystick

Our swing-away joystick allows you to personalize your control positioning. The mount can be placed on either side. It’s super easy to install and uses a strong magnet, not extra hardware.

Say over time one of your hands starts to fatigue. You can move the joystick to the side that has more dexterity. Once it’s on the armrest you can swing it to the spot that feels most comfortable.

This useful accessory also swings out of the way when you want to pull up to a desk or a table for your convenience.

Accessories to Help You Store More

Whether you’re going shopping or just like to travel with a lot of personal effects, a saddle bag gives you a place to put all your stuff. The neoprene saddlebag is available in two sizes: The small saddlebag is approximately 9.5 inches wide by 5.25 inches high and 5 inches deep. The large is approximately 11.75 inches wide by 8 inches high and 7 inches deep.

Let’s end with a specific storage item. Take your drink along for the ride with a cup holder. It easily attaches to either armrest.

Find a Pride Mobility Dealer

Our network of Pride Mobility Dealers are the experts on electric wheelchairs and their accessories. They can confirm that your wheelchair and accessory of choice are compatible and answer any questions you may have.

Meet the New Baja™ Wrangler 2

New Baja™ Wrangler 2 Outdoor Mobility Scooter from Pride Unlocks Adventure

The Baja™ Wrangler 2 outdoor mobility scooter, the first in Pride’s new Baja™ Mobility outdoor lineup, brings unprecedented capabilities to the outdoor personal mobility vehicle class. It’s built for utility, durability and your greatest adventures.

The Baja Wrangler 2 is the trusty trail navigator of mobility equipment.

It’s the faithful ranch hand, the plot gardener’s assistant.

It’s ready to go when you are, with power and maneuverability on demand.

Power on demand

Powered by dual 24-volt/120-amp motors, the 14.5-inch tubeless pneumatic tires crush it on root-strewn paths, gravel and sandy surfaces. Meanwhile a rugged suspension system, steering stabilizer and standard pillow-top seat cover provide all-day comfort for the long haul. If you like to spend every possible minute out in the open air, trust us —this is the outdoor mobility scooter you’ve been waiting for.

We built the Baja Wrangler 2 mobility scooter for the conscious landowner and consummate explorer.

Rule your kingdom with unfettered access to every corner of it. Baja Wrangler 2 makes daily chores happen with efficiency. When the work is done, it’s time to kick back. Start a new adventure exploring some place you couldn’t reach before.

Scooter Specs:

  • Range: 24-30 miles per charge
  • Top speed: 11 mph
  • Power system: Dual 24V/12A motors
  • Ground clearance: 5 inches
  • Tire size: 14.5 inches
  • Weight capacity: 350 lbs.

Safety and comfort open new paths for the mobility scooter class

Baja Wrangler 2 brings stunning safety and comfort features to the mobility scooter market. These extras make it feel more like an all-terrain vehicle than a mobility scooter.

It’s got a backup sensor and rear LED backup lights, adding visibility to your blind spot and confidence to your ride.

Does your adventure ever take you into urban settings? We thought of that, too. A robust delta tiller control console gives you turn signals with buttons at both right- and left-hand positions. There’s a hazard light button and a horn. With responsive and ergonomic throttle controls, again in the left- and right-hand positions, you, the rider, have even greater control.

The tiller display shows you the typical data readout like battery and speed but includes a clock and temperature gauge, so you can track the time and weather changes at a glance.

Your Pride Mobility dealer has your keys to adventure

It feels like we just scratched the surface here. We didn’t even touch on the fully-adjustable seat and backrest, the adjustable tiller, LED headlights and onboard charging capabilities. Obviously, the Baja Wrangler 2 offers so much to your outdoor riding experience.

Your local Pride Mobility provider will help you learn more about this powerful outdoor mobility scooter. Schedule a test ride, arrange for financing and schedule delivery all in one place.

Use the Find a Dealer tool to find 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.

How to buy the Wrangler 2 outdoor mobility scooter

The Baja Wrangler 2 is not a medical device. Private financing options are available. Contact your local Pride Mobility provider or call Pride at 800-800-4258 to discover how you can experience more of your world with the Baja Wrangler 2 outdoor mobility scooter.

Top 10 Tasks to Do Before Moving Into an Assisted Living Facility

It’d be nice if moving to an assisted living center could be boiled down to 10 easy steps. In truth, these all have multiple sub-steps. It’s a complicated process and can be uncomfortable at times.

Careful planning will help smooth the transition. Each person’s decision is unique, but if you’re just getting started for yourself or a loved one, consider these 10 steps. They’re not necessarily in the right order.

1. Understand the different types of living centers

You’ve got five basic types to pick from. Larger and more integrated facilities may include several of these.

  • Retirement and independent living communities —  These typically have a minimum age requirement, for example 55 and older. They offer no special health care services. Instead, they focus on providing a strong sense of community among people who want to enjoy retirement among peers.
  • Lifeplan communities — Also called continuing care retirement communities, these places offer a high level of independence including a focus on camaraderie and activities plus a medical component. So if you need or want access to regular medical care, consider one of these.
  • Assisted living — Assisted living is for people who can’t reasonably live alone. Some specialize in memory health support for people with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
  • Skilled nursing — This is the highest level of ongoing care. People in skilled nursing facilities, also called nursing homes, may require round-the-clock care.

2. Talk to your medical provider

Your doctor may be your best ally in understanding what level of support you need, if any, when making choices about where to live. Remember that the decision is yours to make under the guidance of a medical professional. While you can be your own best advocate, a doctor can help you work through questions and steer you in the direction that’s best for your condition.

3. Talk to your support network

Do you have family or friends you can rely on regularly?

Get their take on what to do and recruit helpers. At the very least, moving out of your home might require a few yard sales and someone with a truck. You want the people whom you count on to be ready and included in your planning.

4. Evaluate your finances

How much you can afford will have a direct effect on your final decision. Since this element is so unique to each individual, we won’t spend a lot of time here.

Long-term care insurance can potentially open some doors for you if you start early enough. If you’re reading this now, for example, in your 40s or 50s, speak to a trusted financial advisor about the right plan for you.

REMEMBER: Medicare or Medicaid only kicks in after you’ve exhausted all your savings. To verify your benefits, ensure you speak to your funding sources directly.

5. Pick a neighborhood

Narrowing your search to a geographic area will help you parse out the specific community you want to live in. Think about how far or close you need the people in your life to be.

Ultimately, remember it’s your choice. If it’s financially and otherwise reasonable, go where it makes you happiest. Just because you’re entering a retirement community or assisted living center, it doesn’t mean you have to quit adventuring.

If you’ve always dreamed of living near the Pacific Coast, at least explore whether going there is an option. Your family members may grumble at the distance, but they’ll come around.

On the other hand, if family and your people are most important to you, try to keep the distance short.

6. Build a list of all the living centers in your neighborhood

This part should be pretty easy, thanks to the internet. Just key in the type of living center into a new Google search and add “near Santa Barbara” or “near Cape Cod” or “near Chicago” — wherever you want to go!

Watch out for the ones marked “Ad” at the top of the search results. Somebody paid for that spot. You generally want to click the search results that come up naturally; it’s not always the case, but those tend to be more trustworthy.

You can also use a website like assistedliving.org to find precisely the type of living center you want, down to whether it has a library or not. We’ll have more ideas about picking the facility below.

7. Check out the reviews

They’re not the ultimate guide, but public reviews offer some perspective on what life might be like.

Your state’s rating system for assisted living facilities might also get you closer to a decision. Check with your state’s health and human services department for guidance there.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ Care Compare tool shows you five-star ratings based on health inspections and staffing. The ratings also include data on vaccination rates and whether the facilities have been penalized.

8. Plan to tour the assisted living centers on your list

Never decide to move somewhere without seeing the place first. This goes without saying. Take a tour, try the food, lay down on a bed, try the bathrooms. This is going to be your home — possibly indefinitely. Make sure you like it.

9. Decide what you’ll do with your old house

Are you leaving the family homestead behind? For financial reasons, you may wind up selling it.

If you’re fortunate enough to keep it in the family, make sure your family understands your wishes for the place. It will make the task of managing it much easier if you’re clear at the outset and have a plan that everyone agrees to.

10. Speak to a financial advisor

This advice perhaps belongs higher up in the list. If you’ve accumulated any wealth in your lifetime, either real estate or otherwise, find a trusted expert for guidance on how to manage it properly and protect it.

With the right amount of planning and deliberate moves, you can find an assisted living center that makes you feel safe, supported and connected. As always,  please be sure to consult with the appropriate professional(s) before making a decision.

How to upgrade your Go Go Scooter

How to Upgrade Your Go Go Scooter

Our line of Go Go Travel scooters are built for folks on the move. They fold or disassemble in just a few steps for storage in your trunk or on an airplane.

For the most part, you’ll find everything you need for comfortable, all-day riding right out of the packaging.

But it’s the cream on top that makes life sweet. We like personalizing because it makes our things feel more like they’re ours. It’s why we put bumper stickers on our cars and hang fuzzy dice from the rear-view mirror.

Go Go mobility scooter riders upgrade batteries and accessorize their scooters for the same reasons everyone likes their airline seat upgraded to first class or their hotel room to the presidential suite.

Just because something’s good doesn’t mean we stop from making it better.

Beyonce once said, “Let me introduce you to some new things and upgrade you.” We’re taking a page from her book.

Experience the lithium-ion advantage

Lithium-ion batteries last longer, charge faster, weigh less and they may even give you a small speed boost.

The Go Go Endurance Li comes standard with a lithium-ion battery. The Go Go Folding Scooter has a lithium-ion battery as an option.

Go for a bigger battery

There are a few models in Pride Mobility’s scooter line that have upgraded battery options. A bigger battery typically means longer range, and that means the adventure doesn’t have to stop so soon!

The Go Go Elite Traveller® 3-wheel comes standard with a 12 AH hour battery pack but you can also expand your range and upgrade to the 18AH battery pack. You can do the same with the Go Go Elite Traveller® 4-wheel model too!

Accessorize your Go Go scooter

Find a ton of cool accessories on the scooter accessories section of Pride’s website and talk to your Pride dealer about them.

Pride makes extra and special storage for groceries, canes, oxygen tanks and cell phones. You can also find rearview mirrors and cup holders designed by Pride to fit your device.

Important note about after-market accessories, batteries and upgrades

If you’re planning to make mechanical changes, especially changing the battery type, it could void your warranty.

Pride Mobility does not provide support for equipment or upgrades you add to your device that isn’t made by Pride or installed by a Pride dealer.

When making upgrades to your Go Go scooter or any other Pride equipment, check with a dealer to know how it will affect your warranty.

Find a Pride Mobility Dealer

Our network of Pride Mobility Dealers are the experts on electric wheelchairs and their accessories. They can confirm that your wheelchair and accessory of choice are compatible and answer any questions you may have.