My father is 89 and has post-polio syndrome. He had polio in his 20s, recovered well and led an active adult life (tennis and skiing) but since his 60s, he's been getting weaker and weaker. His legs are very weak now and he's falling down more and more. He lives in an independent living retirement home in 2-bedroom apartment with my mother. He uses a walker which is sort of a combo as it has a seat he can sit in once he uses it to as a walker to get somewhere but he still tries to walk and he has little strength. And what he has is not a self-propel wheel chair, it's more walker than wheel chair.... I wonder what you'd recommend in terms of transitioning him to something that was self-propelling but had the option of being used as a walker... Also, what kind of person could help him make this transition.. An occupational therapist? They live in a small city of 24,000 that has limited resources.. Appreciate any thoughts you have.
All that being said there are said electric wheel chairs or as suggested above something like a "Hoverround" medicare may or may not aprove this and private pay will be between $1-2 thousand. Another option maybe for him to be fitted with metal leg callipers that will support his legs and stop him buckling at the knees.
You should discuss this with the Dr who can refer him to an occupational therapist who will find the most helpful solution for his situation
A wheelchair is quite a bit larger than the walker. Is the retirement home set up for usage with a wheelchair? I mean the furniture arrangements and stuff. I've no doubt the doors are wide enough. Could he use the walker inside the apartment and then have a chair for use outside, for instance going to meals? A lot of people find that they don't have the arm strength to propel themselves in a chair, but they can put their feet on the floor and sort of walk/roll. It's work and they don't get very far very fast. I'm not sure I totally understand what you are asking about as far as being self propelled and yet being a walker. By definition, a walker is self propelled, so I must be misunderstanding.
All that being said, I'm thinking he might benefit from a powered scooter, such as a Hoveround. They also have power wheelchairs. I think that his doctor should be consulted about your concerns.