Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter purchase is a significant financial investment. Private insurance companies as well as government programs such as Medicare typically cover the cost of the scooter is medically required.
People with mobility issues should be familiarized with the different types of scooters that are available to them. Buyers must first know their own needs and goals.
What to Consider
When it comes to selecting the best mobility scooter, there are numerous factors to consider. There isn't one size fits all mobility scooter. A wrong choice of mobility could result in issues such as a poor fit, low battery life, or even safety issues.
The first thing to consider is what your parents want to utilize the scooter for. Are they planning to use it to run around or shop? If yes then a lightweight mobility scooter that has a long battery life is likely to be the best choice. If they plan to travel over bumpy or rough terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger tires may be a better choice.
Also, keep in mind that your parent's physical condition could change in the near future, so you'll need to consider whether they'll be able to operate their mobility scooter within the next few months or years. If not, then they may need to look into upgrading their scooter or finding a permanent solution like a power wheelchair.
Before deciding on a final choice it is important to encourage your parent to try out several different mobility scooters. They can test how comfortable the seat is and determine if they are able to reach the handle. They should also sit on the driver's side to make sure that the scooter fits their needs and is comfortable.
Some dealers offer used scooters that have been maintained So ask your local dealer if they have any of these available. You can also inquire from rental companies if they offer used scooters. If you decide to purchase an old scooter, it is important to review the warranty and other details to ensure you get what you paid for.
Seating
Some customers buy scooters that have two seats to be capable of transporting family members or friends who wish to accompany them on their journey. However, there could be privacy issues if the persons accompanying you are not of a similar weight as this could mean bumping skin-to-skin against them. It could also create issues with personal space. If you're concerned about these issues it's recommended to purchase a scooter that has an additional seat behind, instead of one that has two seats in the front and back.
A scooter with two seats enables you to not only be a part of a friend or relative but also reduce costs by not having to purchase two mobility vehicles. By using just one scooter, you can save on the cost of electricity and wear and tear. 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 feature a driver's seat in the front and a passenger seat behind, while some include both seats at the rear. The majority of mid-range scooters feature this arrangement however more sophisticated and premium models may have either a front seat or a rear seat with a single seat.
Another option is to buy a scooter with a power-operated lift, which enables you to easily take 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 turn on the switch. Then, you can drive off and when you are ready to return, you can reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels on a mobility scooter are an important element of the vehicle and they can affect 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. You should check your tires frequently and replace them if they are worn.
There are a variety of types of scooter tires available: pneumatic, solid, and foam filled. Foam-filled and solid tires will never go flat, but they are more difficult to maneuver than pneumatic tires. Most travel/portable Scooters come with rubber or spongy tires and the majority of the full-sized and all terrain scooters come with pneumatic tires.
The tube that is inside pneumatic tires is filled with air, similar to the bicycle or motorbike tire. They're the most commonly used type and can be repaired easily.
There are also tires with liners that can be fitted between the tire's outer and inner tube, giving protection against punctures. The majority of manufacturers recommend a specific tire pressure for each scooter model, and the recommended pressure is found in the owner's manual. Tires last longer if they are filled to this pressure.
Many scooters are steered using tillers which are columns in the shape of a T that rotate the front wheels to the left or right. The tiller may also have other controls, like turning and speed indicators. Some tillers come with wraparound handles also known as delta tillers which are ideal for people with limited hand dexterity or strength.
Batteries
Having the right type of battery in your scooter is very important. The right battery can prolong the lifespan of your scooter. It's important to remember that batteries will lose performance as they age. If you are noticing that your battery isn't holding charge as well as it used to it could be a sign it's in need of replacement.
A gel or AGM battery is a great option if you want your battery to last for a long time. These batteries are more resistant to squeezing because they feature an airtight design and an impermeable electrolyte. They also have a longer time to last than other lead acid batteries. However, they're more expensive in the beginning, however their durability makes them affordable in the long term.
Another option is to opt for the lithium battery. They are more expensive in the beginning, however they can offer up to 10 times the longevity of lead-acid batteries. Plus, they are safe for air travel and are available with a certification from the IATA.
It's important that you examine the label on the scooter battery to see the model and the brand name. The use of offbrand or generic batteries can damage your mobility scooter and cause it to function properly. If you have an old battery that was charged with another charger, it may not work the same way.
Some scooters require more powerful batteries than others, so be sure to consult the manufacturer. Typically, they'll have a list of compatible batteries recommended for their scooters. If you are purchasing a used mobility scooter, ask the seller to provide any maintenance documents they have. These records can aid in determining the condition of the battery and if it was recently serviced.
Safety
A scooter is an essential aid for those who are disabled to walk due to age or illness. But it must be used correctly. A mistake in use could cause injuries to the user or those who are around them. It's important to be aware of the things to look for when buying mobility scooters in order to avoid this.
The manual should include specific information about the model like safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Keep the manual in your possession and read it in mind when you use the scooter.
Check the scooter's comfort and see if you can operate it with ease using both hands. The scooter should be able handle the weight you plan to carry.
Examine buy disability scooter of the scooter to ensure that it can travel over bumps and other obstacles. The scooters that are portable or travel-friendly have less ground clearance than larger models, and specialty scooters might have less clearance.
If you're purchasing a second-hand scooter, inquire about its history of maintenance and repairs. Sellers may have records of repairs or replacements for parts and these records could give you a valuable insight into the condition of the scooter prior to you buy it.
You should consider purchasing a security device for your scooter, like clamps, which can deter 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 is a good idea to get familiar with the area that you plan to travel in, especially areas where scooter riders might have issues. Find out where to find curb cuts and streets that do not have sidewalks so that you are able to avoid these areas when you go shopping or visiting friends.