Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
Buying a mobility scooter is a big financial investment. Fortunately, private insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare often reimburse the cost of a scooter if it's medically necessary.
Mobility-impaired individuals should be familiarized with the various types of scooters that are available to them. Buyers must first be aware of their own requirements and goals.
What to Consider
There are many things to consider when choosing the best mobility device. There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all mobility scooter. A wrong choice of mobility could cause problems such as a poor fit, a low battery life, or even safety concerns.
What are your parents planning to use the scooter for? Do they want to go shopping, run errands, or simply take it for rides around the neighborhood? If yes then a light mobility scooter with good battery life is the best choice. If they plan to travel on bumpy or uneven terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger wheels might be the best choice.
Keep in mind that the physical condition of your parent may change in a few years. You will need to decide whether they will be able drive their mobility scooter in the future. If not, then they might need to look into upgrading their scooter or a more durable solution such as a power chair.
Before you make a final decision it is important to encourage your child to test various mobility scooters. They can test how comfortable the seat feels and determine if they are able to reach the tiller. They should also sit on the driver's side in order to ensure that the scooter is suited to them and is comfortable.
Some dealers offer used scooters that have been maintained So inquire with your local dealer for a list of these available. You can also inquire with rental companies if they sell used scooters. It is important to verify the warranty and other information before buying a used scooter.
Seating
Some customers buy scooters with two seats with the intention of being able transport friends or family members who want to accompany them on their trips. There can be privacy issues if the persons who will be joining you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they'll be bumping into each other and creating issues with privacy. If you're concerned about these concerns it's recommended to get a scooter with an additional seat behind, instead of one that has an front and rear seat.
With a scooter that has two seats, you can not only enjoy the company of a relative or a friend, but also save money by not having to purchase two mobility vehicles. You can also save on wear and wear and tear, as well as electric by only having one scooter to run and share costs for fuel.
There are many seating options available when shopping for a mobility scooter with two seats. Some models feature the driver's seat at the front and the passenger seat behind. Some models have both seats in the rear. Most mid-range scooters will feature this arrangement however more sophisticated and premium models may come with a front seat or a rear seat only.
Another option is to buy an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift, which enables 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 platform, and then turn the switch. After that, you can leave and when you're ready to return, turn back the procedure.
Wheels
The wheels on mobility scooters are an important part of the vehicle, and they can either make or break your experience riding. Tires that are in good shape will give you a comfortable, smooth ride. Tires that are damaged or worn out could be dangerous. You should check your tires frequently and replace them if they become worn out.
There are three kinds of scooter tires that are: foam-filled, pneumatic, and solid. Foam-filled and solid tires will are never flat however they are more difficult to maneuver than pneumatic tires. Most travel/portable Scooters come with rubber or spongy tires however, the majority of the full-sized and all terrain scooters come with pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires are made up of an inner tube that is filled with air, similar to a bicycle or motorbike tire. They're the most commonly used type of scooter tire, and they are easily repaired.
Tires are also available with liners that fit between the tire's outer and inner tube, providing added protection against punctures. The owner's manual will show you the recommended tire pressure. Tires last longer if they are filled to this pressure.
A lot of scooters are controlled with 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 located on the tiller, too. Some tillers have handles that wrap around also known as delta tillers which are ideal for people with limited hand dexterity and strength.
Batteries
Having the right battery for your scooter is vital. The right battery can prolong the lifespan of your scooter. Keep in mind that batteries lose their performance as they age. If you're 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 mobility scooters to buy looking to ensure that your battery lasts for a long time, 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 batteries. However, they're more expensive initially, but their longevity makes them economical in the long run.
Another option is to choose a lithium battery. They're a bit more expensive initially, however they can offer up to 10 times the longevity of lead-acid batteries. Additionally, they are safe for air travel and come with a certifying from the IATA.
It is important to examine the label on the battery on your scooter to find the model and brand name. Using a generic or offbrand battery can harm the scooter and result in it not functioning properly. Also, if you own an older battery that has been recharged using another charger, it may not function similarly.
Some scooters require more powerful batteries than others, so be sure to inquire with the manufacturer. They'll typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. If you're buying a used mobility scooter, ask the seller for any maintenance records they have. They can assist you in determining the age of the battery and if it has been serviced recently.
Safety
A scooter can be a lifesaver for people who struggle to walk because of age or illness but only if operated properly. The incorrect use of a scooter can cause injuries to the user as well as those surrounding them. It's important to be aware of the things to look for when buying a mobility scooter to avoid this.
Make sure that the scooter comes with an operating manual, which contains specific information for your model, including safety guidelines and maintenance schedule. Keep the manual on hand to refer to when using the scooter.
Test the scooter's comfort and see if you are able to operate it easily with both hands. The scooter should also be able to handle the weight you'll need to carry.
Check the ground clearance to ensure the scooter can go over obstacles, bumps and more. The scooters that are portable or travel-friendly have less ground clearance than larger models, and some scooters with special features may have even lower clearance.
Ask about the history of repair and maintenance when you purchase a second-hand scooter. These documents may give you valuable information about the condition of the scooter before you purchase it.
You should consider purchasing an item for your scooter such as a wheel clamp, to stop theft. The device is fixed to the wheel of the scooter and can't be removed without using tools. It's a great protection against thieves.
It is a good idea to get familiar with the area you're planning to travel in, especially places where scooter users might encounter difficulties. You can steer clear of certain areas by studying curb cuts and streets without sidewalks.