Now that I can’t walk, I need a reliable mobility device to get where I need to go.
After 37 years of multiple sclerosis (MS), I am no longer ambulatory, but I still want to get around my home easily. With that in mind, I focused in on a mobility aid that’s manageable and intuitive.
The Jazzy Passport wheelchair is made by Pride Mobility Products and costs approximately $2,244. Pride Mobility makes several other power chairs, all with different features and price points, to accommodate different needs.
The Jazzy Passport model is designed to be portable and to fold easily and quickly into a suitcase size, with a handle that is used to pull it like luggage. The unit weighs between 54 and 60 pounds, depending on battery size, which is comparatively light for a power chair, and its size and weight allow it to be put in the trunk of a car or in any small crawl space.
While the marketing materials for the Jazzy Passport emphasize the ease of air travel when using this wheelchair, the manufacturer cautions users to contact their airline before their flight to make absolutely sure they’ll be able to bring it on board.
In my experience, the maneuverability of the Jazzy Passport is very nice. I can move at four different speeds depending on the need. To move along faster, I have not had to go beyond the second speed. The wheelchair has a tight turning radius of 24.25 inches, and its 12-inch pneumatic tires on the back make it comfortable for indoors and outdoors.
The wheelchair also has a large footplate and ground clearance of 3 inches; its overall width is 24 inches.
The powered joystick can be used on the left- or right-hand side and is easy and intuitive to use.
The wheelchair moves seamlessly between rooms and over a thick carpet. The turning radius is wonderful and allows me to turn in small, tight spaces. The joystick is very easy to get used to, and it’s easy to transition between speeds. Both arm rests lift up and out of the way, so the chair can fit under and get close to a table.
All in all, this is a very nice unit. It performs well for what I need it to do, which is provide mobility. I have chosen to use it indoors only and am very satisfied. A good friend and I split the cost of the unit, and I am happy I did. I have bought nonslip armrest covers as well as the cushion and will figure out a solution to the joystick arm going too far back. I am willing to do all this because the chair is worth it.
Important: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and not Everyday Health.
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