Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter is an investment that is costly. Fortunately private insurance companies as well as government programs like Medicare typically cover the cost of a scooter if it's medically necessary.
To ensure that they purchase the right model, individuals with travel-limiting disabilities should know all about scooters and the alternatives they have. First, they must be aware of their own requirements and goals.
What to Consider
There are a lot of things to take into consideration when selecting the right mobility device. There isn't a single size that is perfect for everyone. Choosing the wrong mobility scooter could lead to problems such as a poor fit, a poor battery life, or even safety issues.
What are your parents planning to use the scooter for? Are they planning to use it to run around or shop? If yes, a light mobility device with a long-lasting battery would be the best choice. If they intend to navigate through bumpy or rough terrain, a four-wheeler with larger tires could be a better choice.
Also, take into consideration that your parent's physical health might change in the future, so you'll need to consider whether they'll still be able to operate their mobility scooter within some months or even years. If not, then they may need to think about upgrading their scooter or a more permanent alternative such as a power wheelchair.
If possible, your parent should test out a couple of different mobility scooters before making a decision. They can test how comfortable the seat feels and see if they can reach the handle. They should also sit in the driver's seat to make sure they're comfortable and the scooter fits them well.
Ask your local dealer about the possibility of refurbished scooters. You can also inquire with rental companies to find out whether they have any used scooters for sale. It is crucial to confirm the warranty and other details before purchasing an used scooter.
Seating
Some people 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. There can be privacy issues if those who will be joining you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they'll be bumping into each other and causing issues with privacy. If you're worried about these issues, it's recommended that you purchase a scooter that has 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 just enjoy the company of a loved one or friend and save money by not buying two mobility vehicles. You can also reduce wear and tear and also electricity by using just one scooter to run and even share the cost of fuel.
If best buy mobility scooters looking for a two seat mobility scooter, there are many different seating options to consider. Some models feature an driver's seat in the front and a passenger seat behind, while some include both seats at the rear. Most mid-range and premium scooters feature this configuration, but some models may have only either a rear or front seat.
Another option is to buy the scooter with a powered lift, which permits you to effortlessly take the scooter inside and out of your vehicle. You can reduce time and effort by buying an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift. All you need to do is place the scooter on the lift platform and then switch it on. You can then leave and when you are ready to return, just reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels on mobility scooters are a crucial component of the vehicle, and they can affect the experience you have. A good set of tires will give you an enjoyable, smooth ride, but worn out or damaged ones can be dangerous. You should check your tires on a regular basis and replace them when they get worn.
There are three kinds of scooter tires that are: foam-filled, pneumatic, and solid. Solid and foam-filled tires are never flat, but they are more difficult to move than pneumatic tires. The majority of travel/portable scooters have filled with foam or solid tires, whereas the majority of all-terrain and full-size scooters use pneumatic tires.
The tube inside pneumatic tires is filled with air, similar to the bicycle or motorbike tire. They're the most common type of scooter tire and they're easily repaired.
There are also tires with liner between the outer tube and the inner tire, which provide additional protection against punctures. The owner's manual will inform you the recommended tire pressure. Tires will last longer if 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. The tiller may also have other controls, like speed and turning indicators. Some tillers come with handles that wrap around, referred to as delta tillers. These are great for those who have weak strength and dexterity.
Batteries
Having the right battery in your scooter is vital. The right battery can prolong the life of your scooter. It is important to keep in the mind that batteries lose 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.
If you want to ensure your battery will last for a long time, it's worthwhile to invest in a gel battery or an AGM battery. These batteries feature an immobile electrolyte and are airtight which makes them more resistant to jostling. They also have a longer life than other lead acid batteries. However, they're more expensive in the beginning, however their long-lasting nature makes them more affordable in the long term.
Another option is to select an lithium battery. These are a bit more expensive in the beginning, but they can provide up to 10 times the life span of lead-acid batteries. They're also safe for air travel. They come with an IATA certification.
It is crucial to look at the label of the scooter battery to see the model and brand name. Using generic or offbrand batteries can harm your mobility scooter and cause it to function effectively. If you own an old battery that was charged using another charger, it may not perform similarly.
Certain scooters require stronger batteries than others, so make sure to consult the manufacturer. Typically, they will have an inventory of compatible batteries that are recommended for their scooters. If you are purchasing a used mobility scooter ask the seller to provide any maintenance records they have. They can assist you in determining the age of the battery as well as whether it has been recently serviced.
Safety
A scooter can be an emergency aid for people who are disabled to walk due to age or illness. But it must be used correctly. A mistake in the use of a mobility scooter could cause injury to the user and others who are around them. It's important to be aware of the things to look for when buying mobility scooters to avoid this.
The manual should contain model-specific information like safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Keep the manual in your pocket for reference while using the scooter.
Test the scooter to see how comfortable it is, and whether you can easily operate it using both hands. The scooter should be able carry the weight you intend to carry.
Verify the ground clearance to make sure the scooter can go over bumps, obstacles and more. Travel/portable models have less clearance than full-sized scooters, and specialty models may have an even lower clearance.
If you're buying a used scooter, inquire about its history of maintenance and repairs. Sellers might have records of any repairs or replacements for parts, and these documents can give you a valuable insight into the condition of the scooter prior to you purchase it.
You should consider purchasing the scooter's security device, such as a wheel clamp, to prevent theft. The device attaches to the wheel of the scooter, and can't be removed without tools, making it a good deterrent for thieves.
It's also a good idea to be familiar with the areas you're planning to travel through, specifically areas where scooters might have issues. You can avoid certain areas by studying curb cuts and streets with no sidewalks.