Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter purchase is a big financial investment. Fortunately, private insurance companies and government programs like Medicare often reimburse the cost of a scooter in the event that it's medically needed.
To ensure they buy the correct model, people who have disabilities that limit their mobility should be aware of all they can about scooters and what alternatives they have. First, they must be aware of their own needs and goals.
What to Consider
When it comes time to choose the best mobility scooter, there are a variety of aspects to take into consideration. There is no one size fits all mobility scooter. The wrong mobility can cause issues like a bad fit, low battery life or even safety concerns.
The first thing to consider is what your parents want to make use of the scooter. Are they planning to use it to run around or shop? If yes then a lightweight mobility scooter with good battery life is likely to be the best choice. If they plan to travel on rough or bumpy terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger wheels may be the best choice.
Also, take into consideration that your parent's physical health could change in the near future, so you will be able to determine if they will still be able to operate their mobility scooter within the next few months or years. If not, they could require a change in their mobility scooter or think about an alternative that is more durable, such as the power chair.
If possible, your parent should test out a couple of different mobility scooters before deciding. They can see how comfortable the seat feels and if they are capable of reaching the tiller. They should also sit in the driver's seat to ensure they're comfortable and the scooter is a good fit for them comfortably.
Some dealers sell new scooters that have been taken care of and maintained, so ask your local dealer for a list of these available. You can also check with rental companies to find out whether they have second-hand scooters for auction. If you do buy an used scooter, be sure to review the warranty and other details to ensure that you get what you purchased.
Seating
Some customers buy scooters with two seats with the intention of being able transport friends or family members who wish to join them on their journeys. However, there could be privacy concerns if the people joining you will not be of a similar weight, as this could mean bumping skin-to-skin against them. It could also create problems with personal space. If you're concerned about these concerns it's recommended to get a scooter with a seat behind instead of one that has a front and rear seat.
With a scooter that has two seats, you can not just enjoy the company of a loved one or a friend, but also save money by not buying two separate mobility vehicles. You can also save on wear and tear as well as electricity by only having one scooter to run, and you can even split the cost of fuel.
When you are looking for a 2 seat mobility scooter, there are many different seating options to think about. Some models have seats for the driver in the front and a passenger's seat behind, while others have both seats at the rear. The majority of mid-range scooters come with this arrangement, but more advanced and premium models may include an front seat or a rear seat only.
You can also buy a scooter that has a power-operated lifting system. This allows you to effortlessly get the scooter in and out of your car. You can reduce time and effort by buying a scooter with a power-operated lift. All you need to do is put the scooter on the lift's platform and then turn on the switch. You can then drive away and when you're ready to return, turn back the procedure.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter may alter or ruin your experience riding. Tires that are in good condition will provide a comfortable and smooth ride. Tires that are damaged or old can be dangerous. It is important to examine the condition of your tires frequently and replace them if they are worn out.
There are three types of scooter tires that are: foam-filled, pneumatic, and solid. The foam-filled and solid tires are never flat, but are more difficult to maneuver than pneumatic ones. The majority of travel/portable Scooters have solid or spongy tires, however, the majority of the full-sized and all-terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
The tube that is inside pneumatic tires is filled with air just like the bicycle or motorbike tire. They're the most commonly used type of scooter tire and they're easily repaired.
There are tires that have lines between the tube's outer and inner tire, providing additional protection against punctures. Most manufacturers recommend a particular tire pressure for each scooter model and the recommended pressure is found in the owner's manual. Inflating the tires to this value will help them last longer.
The majority of scooters are controlled via tillers, which are T shaped columns that turn the front wheels to the left or right. The tiller could also have other controls, such as turning and speed indicators. Some tillers have handles that wrap around called delta tillers. They are ideal for those who have weak dexterity and strength.
Batteries
It is crucial to have the right type battery for your scooter. Choosing the correct battery can make your scooter run longer. You should also keep in your mind that batteries lose performance as they age. If you notice that your battery isn't able hold charge as well as it did before, it may be time to replace it.
If you're looking to ensure that your battery lasts for a long time, then it is worth investing in a gel battery or an AGM battery. These batteries come with an impermeable electrolytes and are airtight, which makes them more resistant jostling. They also have a much longer lifespan than other types of batteries. However, they're more expensive in the beginning, however their longevity makes them economical in the long run.
Another option is to select a lithium battery. They're more expensive at first, but can last 10 times longer than lead-acid batteries. buy electric mobility scooter are also safe for air travel and are available with a certifying from the IATA.
It is crucial to take a look at the label of the battery for your scooter to determine the model and the brand name. The use of offbrand or generic batteries could damage your mobility scooter and cause it not to work properly. Similarly, if you have an older battery that has been charged with another charger, it may not work in the same way.
Some scooters require more powerful batteries than others, so make sure to consult the manufacturer. They usually have a list with compatible batteries for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have any documents of maintenance records when you purchase a used mobility device. These records can help you determine whether the battery is in good condition and if it's been maintained.
Safety
A scooter is an essential aid for those who are disabled to walk due to illness or age. However, it must be used correctly. The incorrect use of a scooter can cause injuries to the user and others around them. It is essential to be aware of what to look out for when buying mobility scooters in order to avoid this.
Make sure the scooter comes with an operating manual that provides specific information about the model, such as safety guidelines and maintenance schedule. Keep the manual on hand to refer to when using the scooter.
Test the scooter's comfort and determine if you're able to operate it easily with both hands. The scooter is also expected to handle the weight you're planning on transporting.
Examine the ground clearance of the scooter to ensure it can travel over bumps and other obstacles. Travel/portable scooters have less ground clearance than larger models, and specialty scooters might have lower clearance.
Check the history of repair and maintenance if you're purchasing a used scooter. Individual sellers may have records of repairs or parts replacements These records can provide valuable information about the condition of the scooter prior to you buy it.
Consider buying a scooter security device like a wheel clamp, to prevent theft. The device is fixed to the wheel of the scooter and cannot be removed without tools. It's a great protection against thieves.
It's also a good idea to get familiar with the areas you intend to travel in, especially areas that aren't able to accommodate scooter users. Know the location of curb cuts and streets that don't have sidewalks so that you are able to avoid these areas when you go shopping or visiting your friends.
