Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
The purchase of a mobility scooter is a big financial investment. Fortunately private insurance companies as well as government programs like Medicare often reimburse the cost of a scooter when it's medically required.
Individuals with mobility limitations should be familiarized with the various types of scooters that are that are available to them. Buyers must first know their own needs and objectives.
What to Consider
When it comes time to choose the right mobility scooter, there are a variety of things to consider. There is no any one-size-fits-all mobility scooter. The wrong mobility could cause issues like a bad fit, a low battery life or even safety issues.
What are your parents planning to use the scooter for? Do they want to make use of it to run around or shop? If so, a lightweight mobility device with a long battery life is the best choice. If they intend to navigate through rough or bumpy terrain, a four-wheeler with bigger tires might be a better choice.
Also, take into consideration that your parent's physical health could change in the near future, and you'll have to think about whether they'll be able to operate their mobility scooter in a few months or years. If not, they may need to think about upgrading their scooter or a more permanent solution like a power wheelchair.
If you can, your parent should test a few different mobility scooters before deciding. They can see how comfortable the seat feels and if they're capable of reaching the handle. They should also sit in the driver's seat to ensure that they are comfortable and the scooter fits them comfortably.
Ask your local dealer about the possibility of refurbished scooters. You can also inquire from rental companies if they sell used scooters. If you do buy an used scooter, be sure to verify the warranty and other details to ensure that you are getting what you purchased.
Seating
Some customers purchase scooters with two seats in the hope of being able transport family members or friends who want to accompany them on their travels. However, there could be privacy concerns if those joining you will not be of the same weight as it could result in bumping skin-toskin against them, and could cause issues with personal space. If you're worried about these issues it is recommended to purchase a scooter that has a seat behind rather than one which has an front and rear seat.
With a scooter with two seats, you'll be able to not only be able to enjoy the company of a loved one or a friend but also save money by not having to purchase two separate mobility vehicles. With just one scooter, you will save on the cost of electricity and wear and wear and tear. You can even share the cost of fuel.
There are a variety of seating options to choose from when shopping for a mobility scooter with two seats. Certain models have the driver's seat in the front and the passenger's seat behind. Others have both seats in the rear. The majority of premium and mid-range scooters have this configuration, but some may only have either a rear or front seat.
You can also buy one with an electric lifting system. This allows you to easily get the scooter into and out of your car. You can cut down on time and effort by buying an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift. All you have to do is put the scooter on the lift platform, and then switch it on. After that, you can leave and when you're ready to return, turn back the procedure.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter may alter or ruin the experience of riding. A good set of tires will provide you with a smooth, comfortable ride, however old or damaged tires can be dangerous. It's important to check the condition of your tires frequently and replace them if they wear out.
There are three types of scooter tires: pneumatic, foam-filled, and solid. These tires are not flat, but they are harder to move than pneumatic ones. Most travel/portable Scooters come with rubber or spongy tires while the majority of all-terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
The tube inside pneumatic tires is filled with air, just like bicycle or motorbike tires. They're the most popular type of scooter tire, and they are easily repaired.
There are tires that come with liners that can be fitted between the outer tire and the inner tube, offering protection against punctures. The majority of manufacturers recommend a specific tire pressure for each scooter model, and the recommended pressure is found in the owner's manual. Inflating the tires to this level will help them last longer.
Many scooters are controlled by tillers which are columns in the shape of a T which turn the front wheels to the left or right. The tiller may also have other controls, like speed and turning indicators. Some tillers have wraparound handles called delta tillers. These are perfect for those with limited dexterity and strength.
Batteries
Having the right type of battery in your scooter is vital. The right battery can extend the life of your scooter. You should also keep in mind that batteries lose their performance over time. If you notice that your battery isn't holding charge as well as it did in the past it could be an indication that it is in need of replacement.
A gel or AGM battery is a good option if you wish to have your battery to last for a long time. These batteries are more resistant to shaking because they feature an airtight structure and an immobile electrolyte. They also have a much longer lifespan than other batteries. However, they're more expensive in the beginning, however their long-lasting nature makes them more affordable in the long term.
Another option is to opt for an lithium battery. These are a bit more expensive upfront however they can offer up to 10 times the longevity of lead-acid batteries. They're also safe for air travel. They come with an IATA certification.
It is important to examine the label on the scooter battery to see the model and brand name. Using a generic or offbrand battery can harm the scooter and cause it to not function correctly. In the same way, if you have an older battery that was charged using an alternative charger, it might not perform similarly.
Make sure to check with the manufacturer to determine if your scooter requires a more powerful battery. Typically, they'll have an inventory of compatible batteries recommended for their scooters. If you are purchasing a used mobility scooter ask the seller to provide any maintenance records they have. These records can assist you in determining the age of the battery as well as whether it has been serviced recently.
Safety
A scooter can be a lifesaver for people who struggle to walk due to age or illness but only if operated properly. A mistake in the use of a mobility scooter can cause injuries to the user and others who are around them. It's important to know what to look for when buying mobility scooters to avoid this.
The manual should include specific information about the model such as safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Keep the manual on hand for reference when you use the scooter.
Test the scooter's comfort and see if you are able to operate it easily with both hands. The scooter should be able to carry the weight you intend to transport.
Examine the ground clearance to ensure that the scooter is able to go over bumps, obstacles and more. Travel/portable models have less clearance than larger scooters, and some models with special features may have even smaller clearance.
If you're buying a used scooter, inquire about the history of its maintenance and repairs. These documents may provide valuable information on the condition of a scooter before you buy it.
Consider purchasing a security device for your scooter, like a clamp, to prevent theft. The device is attached to the scooter's wheel and can't be removed without tools, making it an effective deterrent for thieves.
It's important to familiarize yourself with the areas that you plan to travel in, especially areas that aren't accommodating to scooter users. Know the location of curb cuts and streets that do not have sidewalks, so you can avoid these areas when you go shopping or visiting your friends.