Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter purchase is a significant financial investment. Private insurance companies and government programs like Medicare usually cover the cost of the scooter is medically needed.
To ensure they buy the correct model, people with travel-limiting disabilities should know all about scooters and the alternatives that are available to them. First, they must understand their specific needs and goals.
What to Consider
When it comes to selecting the right mobility scooter, there are numerous aspects to take into consideration. There isn't one size fits all mobility scooter. The wrong mobility can result in issues such as a poor fit, low battery life or even safety issues.
What do your parents intend to use the scooter for? Are they planning to use it to complete errands or go shopping? If so, a light mobility device with a long battery life is the best option. If they plan to travel over rough or bumpy terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger wheels might be the best choice.
Keep in mind that your parent's physical condition may change in the near future, and you'll be able to determine if they'll be able to drive their mobility scooter within the next few months or years. If not, they might have to look into upgrading their scooter or a more durable solution such as a power chair.
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 is and determine if they are able to reach the tiller. They should also sit on the driver's side to make sure that the scooter is suited to them and is comfortable.
Some dealers sell refurbished scooters that have been maintained So inquire with your local dealer for a list of these available. You can also inquire with rental companies to find out if they have any used scooters available for auction. If you decide to purchase an old scooter, it is important to verify the warranty and other information to ensure that you are getting what you purchased.
Seating
Some customers purchase scooters with two seats with the intention of being able to carry family members or friends who want to accompany them on their travels. However, there could be privacy concerns if the people joining you will not be of a similar weight as this could result in bumping skin-to-skin against them, and could create issues with personal space. If you're concerned about these concerns it's recommended to opt for a scooter with an additional seat behind, instead of one with an front and rear seat.
A scooter with two seats enables you to not only enjoy the company of a family member or friend and family members, but also save money by not having to purchase two separate mobility vehicles. By using just one scooter, you'll save money on energy and wear and tear. You can even split the cost of fuel.
There are many seating options to choose from when shopping for a mobility scooter with two seats. Certain models come with a driver's seat in the front and a passenger's seat behind, while some have both seats in the rear. The majority of mid-range scooters feature this arrangement however more sophisticated and premium scooters may include a front seat or a rear-only seat.
Another option is to purchase the scooter with a powered lift, which enables you to easily take the scooter inside and out of your vehicle. This will save you time and effort when planning your trip, since all you have to do is guide the scooter to the lift platform and turn on the switch. After that, you can leave and when you're ready to return, turn back the process.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter could cause or hinder your riding experience. Tires that are in good shape 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 get worn out.
There are a few different kinds of scooter tires that are available: solid, pneumatic and foam-filled. Solid and foam-filled scooter tires are never flat, but are harder to maneuver than pneumatic tires. The majority of travel/portable Scooters have rubber or spongy tires while the majority of full-sized and all terrain scooters come with pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires have an inner tube filled with air, similar to a bicycle or motorbike tire. They're the most popular type of scooter tire, and they are easily repaired.
There are also tires with liners between the tube's outer and inner tire, providing additional protection against punctures. The owner's manual will tell you the recommended tire pressure. Inflating the tires to this pressure will make them last longer.
Most scooters are controlled by tillers which are T-shaped columns that turn the front wheels to the left or right. Other controls, such as turning and speed signals can be located on the tiller too. Some tillers have wraparound handles, called delta tillers, which are great for those with limited hand dexterity or strength.
Batteries
Having the correct type of battery in your scooter is crucial. Choosing the correct battery can make your scooter run for longer. It's also a good idea to remember that batteries may lose performance over time. If you are noticing that your battery isn't able to hold charge as well as it did in the past it could be an indication that it is in need of replacement.
If you're looking to ensure that your battery will last for a long time, it's worth investing in a gel battery or an AGM battery. These batteries are more resistant to shaking due to their airtight design and an impermeable electrolyte. They also have a longer lifespan than other batteries. They are slightly more costly initially, but their long-term cost-effectiveness makes them worth it.
A lithium battery is an alternative option. They're more expensive at first however, they can last up to 10 times longer than lead-acid batteries. Plus, they are suitable for travel in the air and come with a certifying from the IATA.
When buying a scooter battery it is essential to search for the model and brand name of your mobility scooter on the label. Using generic or offbrand batteries could damage your mobility scooter and cause it not to function properly. Similarly, if you have an older battery that has been charged using another charger, it might not perform in the same way.
Some scooters require more powerful batteries than others, so make sure to check with the manufacturer. They usually have a list with compatible batteries for their scooters. If you're buying a used mobility scooter, ask the seller to provide any maintenance documents they have. These records will help you determine whether the battery is in good condition and if it's been serviced.
Safety
A scooter can be an essential aid for those who are unable to walk due to age or illness. But it must be used correctly. A mistake in use could cause injury to the user as well as those who are around them. It is essential to be aware of the things to look for when buying mobility scooters in order to avoid this.
Make sure that the scooter has an operating manual, which contains specific information about the model, such as safety guidelines and maintenance schedule. Read the manual and keep it for reference when using the scooter.
Test the scooter to see how comfortable it is, and if you are able to operate it with both hands. The scooter should also be able to handle the weight you'll be carrying.
Check the ground clearance to ensure that the scooter is able to go over bumps, obstacles and more. Travel/portable models have less clearance than full-sized scooters, and some models with special features may have even smaller clearance.
Find out the background of maintenance and repair if you're purchasing a used scooter. Sellers may have records of any repairs or replacements for parts and these records could give you a valuable insight into the condition of the scooter before you buy it.
You should consider purchasing a security device for your scooter, such as clamps, which can 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 important to be familiar with the areas that you plan to travel in, especially places that have difficulty accommodating scooter users. You can avoid certain areas by knowing about curb cuts, and streets that do not have sidewalks.