Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter purchase is a major financial investment. Fortunately, private insurance companies and government programs like Medicare typically cover the cost of a scooter in the event that it's medically needed.
To ensure that they purchase the correct model, those with travel-limiting disabilities should know about scooters and the alternatives that are available to them. Buyers must first be aware of their own needs and goals.
What to Consider
When it comes to choosing the right mobility scooter, there are numerous things to consider. There isn't a single size that will fit all. The wrong mobility scooter could cause issues such as a bad fit, a poor battery life or even safety issues.
What will your parent use the scooter for? Do they plan to shop, run errands, or simply take it for rides around the neighborhood? If so then a light mobility scooter with a long battery life is the best option. If they intend to travel on bumpy or uneven terrain, a four wheel scooter with larger wheels might be the best choice.
Be aware that the physical condition of your parent may change over the course of a few years. You will need to decide whether they will be able drive their mobility scooter then. If not, then they may need to think about upgrading their scooter or a more permanent solution like a power wheelchair.
If it is possible, your parents should try out a few different mobility scooters before making a decision. They can test out how comfortable the seat feels and determine if they are able to reach the handle. They should also sit on the driver's side in order to ensure that the scooter fits them and is comfortable.
Ask your local dealer about the possibility of refurbished scooters. You can also ask rental companies if they offer used scooters. It is important to verify the warranty and other details before buying an used scooter.
Seating
Some customers buy scooters with two seats in the hopes of being able to transport family members or friends who would like to join them on their trips. However, there could be privacy concerns if the people accompanying you are not of a similar weight as it could result in bumping skin-toskin against them, and could create problems with personal space. If you're worried about these issues it's recommended to get a scooter with an additional seat behind, instead of one that has two seats in the front and back.
With a scooter with two seats, you'll be able to not only be able to enjoy the company of a relative or friend and save money by not purchasing two separate mobility vehicles. You can also reduce wear and tear and also electricity by having just one scooter that you can operate and share costs for fuel.
If you're looking for a two seat mobility scooter, there are many different seating options to think about. Some models have the driver's seat at the front, and the passenger seat behind. Others have both seats in the rear. Most mid-range and premium scooters have this setup, however, certain models might only have a front or rear seat.
Another option is to purchase an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift, which permits you to easily take the scooter inside and out of your vehicle. You can cut down on time and effort by buying the scooter with a powered lift. All you need to do is put the scooter on the lift's platform and then turn on the switch. Then you can drive away and when you're ready to return, turn back the procedure.
Wheels
The wheels on a mobility scooter are a vital element of the vehicle and they can make or break the experience you have. A set of quality tires will give you an easy, comfortable ride, however old or damaged ones can be dangerous. You should inspect your tires frequently and replace them when they get worn.
There are a variety of kinds of scooter tires available: solid, pneumatic, and foam filled. These tires are never flat, but are harder to move than pneumatic ones. Most portable and travel scooters have foam-filled or solid tires, while most full-sized and all-terrain scooters use pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires have an inner tube that's air-filled like a bicycle or motorbike tire. They're the most commonly used type of scooter tire, and they're easily repaired.
There are also tires with lines between the outer tube and the inner tire, which provide additional protection against punctures. The owner's manual will tell you the recommended tire pressure. Tires will last longer when they are filled to this pressure.
The majority of scooters are controlled via tillers which are T-shaped columns that turn the front wheels to the left or right. Other controls like turning and speed signals can be on the tiller as well. Some tillers come with wraparound handles called delta tillers. They are ideal for people who have limited dexterity and strength.
Batteries
Having the right type of battery for your scooter is crucial. The right battery will make your scooter last longer. It's important to remember that batteries can lose their performance as they age. If you notice that your battery isn't able retain charge as well as previously, it might be time to replace it.
A gel or AGM battery is a good investment if you want your battery to last for a long time. These batteries come with an immobile electrolyte and are airtight making them more resistant to jostling. They also have a longer lifespan than other types of batteries. However, they're more expensive in the beginning, however their longevity makes them affordable in the long term.
A lithium battery is another option. These are a bit more expensive upfront but they can provide up to 10 times the longevity of lead-acid batteries. They are also suitable for travel in the air and are available with a certificate from the IATA.
When buying a scooter battery it is important to look for the brand name and model of the mobility scooter on the label. If you use a generic or offbrand battery can harm the scooter and result in it not functioning correctly. If you have an older battery that was charged with another charger, it may not work similarly.
Make sure to check with the manufacturer to find out whether your scooter requires more power from the battery. They will typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have records of maintenance in the event that you purchase an old mobility device. These records will help you determine if the battery is old and if it has recently been maintained.
Safety
A scooter is an emergency aid for people who are disabled to walk due to age or illness. However, it is essential to use it correctly. The incorrect use of a scooter could cause injury to the user and others who are around them. It is essential to be aware of the things to look for when purchasing mobility scooters in order to avoid this.
The manual should include model-specific information like safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Keep the manual handy for reference when you use the scooter.
Test the comfort of the scooter and determine if you're able to operate it easily with both hands. The scooter must also be able to handle the weight you'll need to carry.
Verify the ground clearance to ensure the scooter can go over bumps, obstacles, and more. The scooters that are portable or travel-friendly have less ground clearance than full-sized models, and some scooters with special features might have lower clearance.
Ask about the background of maintenance and repair when you purchase a second-hand scooter. These documents may provide valuable information about the condition of the scooter before you purchase it.
Consider buying a security gadget for your scooter, such as a clamp, to prevent theft. The device is attached to the scooter's wheel and can't be removed with tools, which makes it an effective deterrent for thieves.
It's also a good idea to get familiar with the area that you plan to travel in, especially places where scooter users might have issues. You can steer clear of certain areas by learning about curb cuts, and streets that do not have sidewalks.