ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Invalid carriage

An invalid carriage is a special type of vehicle that is designed to help people who have difficulty walking. It is also called a mobility scooter or an electric wheelchair.

Let's imagine that you have a grandparent who finds it difficult to walk because of an illness or injury. They might use a walking stick, but that can be tiring, or they might need to rest frequently. An invalid carriage is like a magical machine that helps them get around without feeling tired or in pain.

Think of it like a small car that moves without any pedals or steering wheel; all your grandparent needs to do is sit in it and use a joystick or buttons to control its movements. It has a sturdy metal frame with four wheels that balance it to keep it upright. Usually, it has a padded seat, backrest, handlebars, and footrests, so your grandparent is comfortable while using it.

When your grandparent wants to go out, they can simply use the joystick or buttons to move the carriage forward, backward, left or right, and even turn around in a small space. The carriage typically has a small motor that runs on batteries, making it quiet and eco-friendly.

Some invalid carriages can be disassembled into smaller pieces, making them easy to transport in the trunk of a car. Others are foldable or have a special carrier that attaches to the back of a car.

Overall, an invalid carriage is a fantastic invention that makes it possible for many people to have more independence and mobility. It's like having a superpower to help you get around when your legs can't.