In the case of a powered wheelchair, the type of control system needed by its user can vary considerably depending the user's needs. Since steering of a scooter wheelchair is via its "t"-shaped handlebar or "tiller", the user of such a scooter would need to have sufficient strength and use of their hands to be able to hold onto and to steer the scooter using the handlebar or "tiller".

In the case of non-scooter powered wheelchairs --the models which are designed for use in their "standardized" configuration -- the user would nearly always have to be someone who can successfully use a joystick controller. In the cases of the non-scooter powered wheelchairs designed with the capability of being extensively modified when necessary, a joystick controller can be installed for a user who can use a joystick as well.

However, unlike their other powered counterparts, the extensively modifiable powered wheelchairs can be fitted with a variety of other control systems designed for their individual users. Among these customized control systems is a "sip and puff" type -- a system mounted near the user's mouth that allows the user to control the wheelchair using "sips" (inhalations) and "puffs" (exhalations) -- that interprets the user's "sips" and "puffs" as signals and forwards these signals to the wheelchair's control units.

Other Customization Necessitating Factors

There may be other factors that dictate a reqfouirement for a wheelchair that can be customized as opposed to a standardized one. These can include:

-- need for customized cushining and / or padding systems

-- need for supplemental oxygen

-- need for other medical equipment to be installed on the wheelchair.

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