Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
The purchase of a mobility scooter is a big financial investment. Private insurance companies as well as government programs like Medicare often pay for the cost if the scooter is medically required.
To ensure that they purchase the correct model, people with disabilities that restrict mobility need to know all they can about scooters and what options that are available to them. Buyers must first be aware of their own needs and goals.
What to Consider
When it comes to selecting the best mobility scooter, there are a variety of factors to consider. There is no one size fits all - and the wrong mobility scooter could lead to issues such as a bad fit, a low battery life, or even safety issues.
The first thing to consider is what your parent wants to utilize 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 with a long battery life is the best option. If they plan to travel over bumpy or rough terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger wheels may be the best choice.
Be aware that the physical health of your parent might change over the course of a few years. You will need to determine whether they'll be able to operate their mobility scooter after. If not, then they might have to think about upgrading their scooter or a more permanent solution like a power wheelchair.
Before you make a final decision it is important to encourage your child to test out several different mobility scooters. They can see how comfortable the seat is and if they are in a position to reach the tiller. They should also sit in the driver's seat to ensure they're comfortable and the scooter fits them comfortably.
Ask your local dealer about used scooters. You can also inquire from rental companies if they offer used scooters. It is essential to confirm the warranty and other details prior to purchasing a used scooter.
Seating
Some people purchase scooters with two seats in the hope of being able to carry friends or family members who want to accompany them on their journeys. There can be privacy issues if the people who will be joining you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they'll be bumping into each other, causing problems with personal space. If these are concerns you are worried about, it is suggested to buy a scooter with a seat behind instead of one that has a rear and front seat.
A scooter with two seats enables you to not only enjoy the company of a friend or relative but also save money by not having to buy two mobility vehicles. You can also save on wear and tear and also electricity by using just one scooter to run and share the cost of fuel.
There are a variety of seating options to choose from when shopping for a mobility scooter with two seats. Some models feature seats for the driver in the front and a passenger seat behind, whereas others include both seats at the rear. The majority of mid-range and premium scooters have this configuration, but some may only have either a rear or front seat.
Another option is to buy a scooter with a power-operated lift, which enables you to effortlessly move the scooter inside and out of your vehicle. This can help you save time and effort when preparing for your trip, because all you have to do is direct the scooter onto the lift platform and then turn on the switch. You can then drive off and when you are ready to return, you can reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter could make or ruin your experience riding. Tires that are in good condition will give you a comfortable, smooth ride. Tires that are damaged or worn out can be dangerous. It is important to examine the condition of your tires frequently and replace them as they wear out.
There are three types of scooter tires including foam-filled, pneumatic and solid. The tires that are filled with foam never go flat however they are more difficult to move than pneumatic tires. Most travel/portable Scooters come with rubber or spongy tires while the majority of all terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires come with an inner tube that is filled with air like motorbike or bicycle tires. They're the most common type of scooter tire, and they can be 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 certain tire pressure for each scooter model, and the recommended pressure can be found in the owner's manual. Tires will last longer if they are inflated to this pressure.
Many scooters are controlled by tillers, which are T-shaped columns which turn the front wheels either left or right. The tiller can also include other controls, like turning and speed indicators. Some tillers have handles that wrap around also known as delta tillers which are ideal for people who have limited hand dexterity or strength.
Batteries
It is important to select the correct battery in your scooter. The right battery can help extend the life of your scooter. It's important to keep in mind that batteries may lose performance over time. If you're noticing that your battery isn't holding charge as well as it used to, it could be an indication that it is in need of replacement.
If you're looking to ensure that your battery lasts for a long period of time, then it's worth investing in a gel battery or an AGM battery. These batteries come with an immobile electrolyte and are airtight which makes them more resistant to jostling. They also have a much longer lifespan than other types of batteries. However, they are more expensive initially, but their durability makes them economical in the long run.
Another option is to choose a lithium battery. These are a bit more expensive initially, but they offer up to 10 times the life span of lead-acid batteries. They are also safe for air travel and come with a certification from the IATA.
It is important to look at the label of the battery on your scooter to find the model and the brand name. Using generic or offbrand batteries could damage your mobility scooter and cause it not to work correctly. In the same way, if you have an older battery that was recharged using a different charger, it might not perform similarly.
Some scooters require more powerful batteries than others, so be sure to inquire with the manufacturer. Typically, they will have a list of compatible batteries recommended for their scooters. Ask buy mobility scooters if they have records of maintenance in the event that you purchase an old mobility device. These records will help you determine whether the battery is old and if it's been serviced.
Safety
A scooter can be a lifesaver to people who are unable to walk due to age or illness. However, it must be used correctly. The incorrect use of a scooter could cause injury to the user and those around them. It is important to be aware of what to look out for when buying a mobility scooter to avoid this.
Make sure that the scooter comes with an operating manual that provides model-specific information, including safety guidelines and a maintenance schedule. Read the manual and keep it handy when you are using the scooter.
Test the scooter to see how comfortable it is, and whether you can easily operate it with both hands. The scooter must also be able to carry the amount of weight you're planning on transporting.
Verify the ground clearance of the scooter to ensure it can maneuver over bumps and other obstacles. Travel/portable scooters have less ground clearance than larger models, and specialty scooters may have even lower clearance.
Ask about the history of repair and maintenance when you purchase a second-hand scooter. These documents could provide valuable information about the condition of the scooter prior to you purchase it.
Consider purchasing a scooter security device, such as a wheel clamp, to deter theft. The device is connected to the wheel of the scooter, and cannot be removed without tools. It's a great deterrent against thieves.
It's a good idea also to get familiar with the area you're planning to travel in, especially places where scooter users might encounter difficulties. You can avoid certain areas by studying curb cuts and streets with no sidewalks.