Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
Mobility scooters are an investment that is costly. Private insurance companies as well as government programs such as Medicare often reimburse the cost if the scooter is medically required.
Individuals with mobility limitations must be aware of different types of scooters available to them. First, they must be aware of their own needs and goals.
What to Consider
There are many things to consider when choosing the best mobility device. There isn't a single size that fits all - and the wrong mobility scooter can cause problems such as a poor fit, a short battery life or even safety issues.
The first thing to consider is what your parent would like to use the scooter for. Do they plan to shop or run errands? Or just take it for rides around the neighborhood? If so, a lightweight mobility device with a long battery lifespan would be the best choice. If they want to travel on rough or bumpy terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger tires could be a better choice.
Be aware that the physical health of your parent might change in a few years. You will need to determine if they'll be able to operate their mobility scooter after. If not, they could require a change in their mobility scooter or think about the more permanent option of the power chair.
If you can, your parent should test a few different mobility scooters before deciding. They can feel how comfortable the seat is and if they're in a position to reach the handle. They should also sit in the driver's seat to make sure they're comfortable and the scooter is a good fit for them comfortably.
Ask your local dealer about the possibility of refurbished scooters. You can also inquire from rental companies if they offer used scooters. It is crucial to confirm the warranty and other details before buying an used scooter.
Seating
Some customers purchase scooters with two seats in order to be capable of transporting family or friends who wish to accompany them on a trip. There are privacy issues if the people who will be with 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 buy a motor scooter near me concerned about these concerns it's recommended to purchase a scooter that has a seat behind instead of one with a front and rear seat.
With a scooter that has two seats, you'll be able to not only enjoy the company of a relative or friend but also save money by not purchasing two separate mobility vehicles. You can also save on wear and tear and also electricity by having just one scooter to operate and even split the cost of fuel.
If you're looking for a two seat mobility scooter, there are different seating options to consider. Certain models have the driver's seat at the front, and the passenger seat behind. Others have both seats in the rear. The majority of premium and mid-range scooters feature this arrangement, however certain models might only have a front or rear seat.
Another option is to buy an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift, which permits you to easily take the scooter inside and out of your vehicle. This can help you save time and effort when it comes to planning your trip, because all you have to do is guide the scooter onto the lift platform, then turn on the switch. You can then drive away and when you're ready to return, reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter could make or ruin your riding experience. Tires that are in good condition will give you a comfortable and smooth ride. Tires that are worn out or damaged can pose a risk. It is important to examine the condition of your tires regularly and replace them as they get worn out.
There are three kinds of scooter tires including foam-filled, pneumatic and solid. Solid and foam-filled scooter tires are not flat, but they are harder to maneuver than pneumatic tires. Most travel/portable Scooters come with solid or spongy tires while the majority of all-terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires are made up of an inner tube that is filled with air similar to motorbike or bicycle tires. They're the most common type of scooter tire, and they can be easily repaired.
There are also tires with liner between the tube's outer and inner tire, which provide additional protection against punctures. Most manufacturers recommend a certain tire pressure for each scooter model and the recommended value can be found in the owner's manual. Tires last longer if they are filled to this pressure.
Most scooters are controlled by tillers, which are T shaped columns that rotate the front wheels to the left or right. Other controls such as turning and speed signals can be on the tiller too. Some tillers have handles that wrap around, called delta tillers, which are great for those who have limited hand dexterity or strength.
Batteries
Having the right battery in your scooter is very important. Choosing the correct battery can make your scooter last longer. It is important to keep in mind that batteries can lose their performance over time. If you notice that your battery isn't able hold charge as well as it did previously, it might be time to replace it.
If you're looking to ensure that your battery will last for a long period of time, then it's worthwhile to invest in a gel battery or an AGM battery. These batteries come with an immobile electrolytes and are airtight making them more resistant to jostling. They also have a longer time to last than other lead acid batteries. They're slightly more expensive upfront, but their long-term cost-effectiveness makes them worthwhile.
Another option is to select the lithium battery. They are more expensive initially, but they can provide up to 10 times the longevity of lead-acid batteries. Plus, they are suitable for travel in the air and come with a certificate from the IATA.
It's important that you take a look at the label of the battery on your scooter to find the model and brand name. The use of offbrand or generic batteries can harm your mobility scooter and cause it to function correctly. If you own an old battery that was charged with a different charger it may not work similarly.
Contact the manufacturer to see whether your scooter requires an extra powerful battery. They'll typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have any documents of maintenance records in the event that you purchase a used mobility device. They can aid in determining the age of the battery and whether it was recently serviced.
Safety
A scooter can be lifesaving for people who struggle to walk because of age or illness however, only if it's operated correctly. Incorrect use can cause injury to the user or those who are around them. To avoid this, it's important to know what you should look for in a mobility scooter before purchasing.
The manual should include specific information for the model, like safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Keep the manual handy to refer to when using the scooter.
Try the scooter out to see how comfortable it is, and whether you can operate it with both hands. The scooter is also expected to carry the amount of weight you'll be carrying.
Examine the ground clearance to ensure the scooter is able to go over bumps, obstacles and more. Travel/portable models have less clearance than full-sized scooters. special models could have even smaller clearance.
Find out the history of repair and maintenance if you're purchasing a used scooter. These documents may provide valuable information about the condition of the scooter prior to you purchase it.
Consider buying a security gadget for your scooter, such as clamps, to stop theft. The device attaches to the wheel of the scooter and cannot be removed with tools, which makes it a good deterrent for thieves.
It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself the areas you're planning to travel through, particularly areas where scooter riders might encounter difficulties. You can avoid certain areas by studying curb cuts and streets with no sidewalks.