Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
The purchase of a mobility scooter is a big financial investment. Private insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare often reimburse the cost if the scooter is medically needed.
To ensure they buy the correct model, people who have disabilities that limit their mobility should be aware of all about scooters and the options available to them. First, they must understand their specific needs and goals.
What to Consider
When it comes to selecting the best mobility scooter, there are numerous factors to consider. There isn't a single size that fits all - and the wrong mobility scooter could lead to problems such as a poor fit, a short battery life, or even safety issues.
What do your parents intend to use the scooter for? Do they need to go shopping, run errands, or just take it for rides around the neighborhood? If yes then a light mobility scooter that has a long battery life is the best option. If they plan to travel on bumpy or rough terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger tires could be a better choice.
Be aware that the physical condition of your parent may change over the course of a few years. You'll have to determine if they'll be able to operate their mobility scooter after. If not, then they might need to look into upgrading their scooter or finding a permanent solution like a power wheelchair.
Before you make a final decision, you should encourage your parent to try out a variety of mobility scooters. They can see how comfortable the seat is and whether they are capable of reaching the handle. mobility scooters near me should also sit in the driver's seat to make sure they're comfortable and that the scooter fits them well.
Some dealers sell refurbished scooters that have been well-maintained, so inquire with your local dealer whether they have any of these available. You can also inquire with rental companies if they have used scooters. If you decide to purchase an used scooter, it is important to check the warranty and other information to ensure you are getting what you paid for.
Seating
Some people purchase scooters with two seats in order to be able to transport family or friends who wish to accompany them on a trip. There are privacy issues if the persons who will be joining you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they will be crashing into each other and causing issues with personal space. If you're concerned about these concerns it's recommended to purchase a scooter that has a seat behind rather than one that has a front and rear seat.
A scooter with two seats lets you to not only be a part of a family member or friend but also reduce costs by not having to purchase two mobility vehicles. With just one scooter, you will save money on energy and wear and tear. You can even split the cost of fuel.
If you're looking for a two seat mobility scooter, there are many choices of seating options. Some models have the driver's seat at the front, and the passenger seat behind. Some models have both seats in the rear. Most mid-range and premium scooters feature this setup, however, some may only have either a rear or front seat.
Another option is to purchase an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift, which enables you to easily take the scooter inside and out of your vehicle. This can help you save time and effort when getting ready for your trip since all you have to do is steer the scooter to the lift platform and turn on the switch. Then you can drive away and when you're ready to return, you can reverse the procedure.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter could alter or ruin your experience riding. A set of quality tires will provide an enjoyable, smooth ride, but old or damaged ones can be dangerous. It is essential to check the condition of your tires regularly and replace them as they get worn out.
There are a variety of kinds of scooter tires that are available: pneumatic, solid and foam filled. Foam-filled and solid tires will never go flat however they are more difficult to maneuver than pneumatic tires. The majority of travel/portable scooters have filled with foam or solid tires, whereas the majority of full-sized and all-terrain scooters use pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires come with an inner tube filled with air, similar to the motorbike or bicycle tire. They're the most popular type of scooter tire, and they're easily repaired.
There are tires that have liner between the outer tube and the inner tire, which provide additional protection against punctures. Most manufacturers recommend a particular tire pressure for each scooter model, and the recommended value can be found in the owner's manual. Inflating the tires to this level will help them last longer.
The majority of scooters are controlled via tillers that are T-shaped columns that move the front wheels to either the left or right. Other controls, such as speed and turning signals may be found on the tiller, too. Some tillers come with wraparound handles, called delta tillers, which are great for those with limited hand dexterity and strength.
Batteries
Having the right battery in your scooter is very important. The right battery will make your scooter last longer. You should also keep in the mind that batteries lose performance with time. If you find that your battery isn't able to hold charge as well as previously, it might be time to replace it.
A gel or AGM battery is a great option if you want your battery to last for a long time. These batteries are more resistant to squeezing due to their airtight design and an immobile electrolyte. They also have a much longer lifespan than other types of batteries. However, they are slightly more expensive in the beginning, however their long-lasting nature makes them more affordable in the long term.
Another option is to choose an lithium battery. These are a bit more expensive upfront but they can provide up to 10 times the lifespan of lead-acid batteries. Plus, they are suitable for travel in the air and come with a certification from the IATA.
It's important that you look at the label of the battery on your scooter to find the model and brand name. If you use a generic or offbrand model of battery could damage your scooter and cause it to not work properly. If you have an older battery that was recharged using a different charger it may not perform the same way.
Contact the manufacturer to see whether your scooter requires an extra powerful battery. Typically, they will have an inventory of compatible batteries that are recommended for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have documentation of maintenance, in the event that you purchase an old mobility device. These records can help determine whether the battery is in good condition and if it's been serviced.
Safety
A scooter can be lifesaving for those who are unable to walk because of age or illness but only if operated properly. A mistake in use could cause injury to the user as well as those in the vicinity. To avoid this, it's important to know what to look for in a mobility scooter prior to making the purchase.
The manual should include specific information for the model, like safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Keep the manual in your pocket for reference while using the scooter.
Check the scooter's comfort and see if you are able to operate it easily with both hands. The scooter should also be able to carry the amount of weight you'll need to carry.
Verify the ground clearance of the scooter to ensure that it can maneuver over bumps and other obstacles. The scooters that are portable or travel-friendly have less ground clearance than full-sized models, and some scooters with special features may have even lower clearance.
If you're considering purchasing a used scooter, inquire about the history of its maintenance and repair. These documents can give you valuable information about the condition of a scooter before you buy it.
Consider purchasing an item for your scooter, such as a wheel clamp, to prevent theft. The device is attached to the wheel of the scooter and isn't able to be removed without tools, so it's an effective deterrent to thieves.
It's important to be familiar with the areas you intend on travelling in, particularly areas that aren't able to accommodate scooter users. Learn about the locations of curb cuts and streets that don't have sidewalks, so you are able to avoid these areas when you go shopping or visiting friends.