Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
The purchase of a mobility scooter is a major financial investment. Fortunately private insurance companies as well as government programs like Medicare often reimburse the cost of a scooter in the event that it's medically needed.
To ensure they buy the correct model, people with disabilities that restrict mobility need to know all they can about scooters and what options available to them. Buyers must first be aware of their own needs and objectives.
What to Consider
There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing the right mobility device. There isn't one size fits all mobility scooter. The wrong mobility can cause issues like a bad fit, low battery life, or even safety concerns.
What do your parents intend to use the scooter for? Do they plan to shop or run errands? Or just ride it around the neighborhood? If yes then a lightweight mobility scooter with a long battery life is the best choice. If they intend to travel over bumpy or uneven terrain, a four wheel scooter with larger wheels may be the best option.
Keep in mind that the physical health of your parent could change in the next few years. You will need to determine if they'll be able to operate their mobility scooter after. If not, they may need to think about upgrading their scooter or finding a permanent alternative such as a power wheelchair.
If you can, your parent should try out a few different mobility scooters before making a decision. They can test how comfortable the seat is and whether they are in a position to reach the tiller. They should also sit on the driver's side to ensure that the scooter is suited to them and is comfortable.
Ask your local dealer about refurbished scooters. You can also inquire with rental companies to see whether they have used scooters for sale. It is important to verify the warranty and other information before purchasing a used scooter.
Seating
Some people purchase scooters with two seats in the hopes of being able to carry friends or family members who would like to join them on their trips. There are privacy issues if those who will be with you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they'll be crashing into each other and creating issues with privacy. If these are concerns you are concerned about, it's recommended to buy a scooter with a seat behind instead of one that has a rear and front seat.
With a scooter that has two seats, you will not just enjoy the company of a family member or friend, but also save money by not having to purchase two mobility vehicles. By using just one scooter, you can reduce the use of the cost of electricity and wear and wear and tear. You can even share the cost of fuel.
There are a variety of 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 seat behind, while others have both seats in the rear. The majority of mid-range scooters come with this arrangement however more advanced and premium scooters may come with an front seat or a rear seat only.
You can also buy an electric scooter with a lift system powered by electricity. This allows you to effortlessly get the scooter in and out of your car. You can reduce time and effort by buying a scooter with a power-operated lift. All you have to do is place the scooter on the lift platform, and then switch it on. After that, you can leave and when you're ready to return, reverse the procedure.
Wheels
The wheels on a mobility scooter are a vital element of the vehicle and they can either make or break your riding experience. A set of tires that are in good condition will provide you with an easy, comfortable ride, but worn out or damaged ones can be dangerous. You should inspect your tires on a regular basis and replace them when they get worn.
There are three kinds of scooter tires including foam-filled, pneumatic and solid. The tires that are filled with foam do not flatten however they are more difficult to move than pneumatic tires. Most travel/portable scooters come with filled with foam or solid tires, whereas the majority of all-terrain and full-size scooters have pneumatic tires.
The tube that is inside pneumatic tires is filled with air as bicycle or motorbike tires. They're the most common type of scooter tire and they can be easily repaired.
There are also tires with liner between the outer tube and the inner tire, providing additional protection against punctures. The owner's manual will tell you the recommended tire pressure. Tires will last longer if they are inflated to this pressure.
Most scooters are controlled by tillers that are T-shaped columns that turn the front wheels to the left or right. Other controls like speed and turning signals may be located on the tiller too. Some tillers come with wraparound handles also known as delta tillers which are great for those who have limited hand dexterity or strength.
Batteries
It is essential to choose the correct type of battery for your scooter. Selecting the right battery will make your scooter last longer. You should also 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 before, it may be time to replace it.
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 shaking because they have an airtight design and an impermeable electrolyte. They also have a longer lifespan than other batteries. They are slightly more costly upfront, but their long-term cost-effectiveness makes them worthwhile.
A lithium battery is a different option. They're more expensive initially however they can last 10 times longer than lead-acid batteries. Plus, they're safe for air travel. They are backed by an IATA certification.
When purchasing the battery for your scooter it is essential to search for the brand name and model of your mobility scooter on the label. Utilizing offbrand or generic batteries could damage your mobility scooter and cause it not to work correctly. Similarly, if you have an older battery that has been recharged using a different charger, it might not perform in the same way.
Some scooters require more powerful batteries than others, so be sure to check with the manufacturer. They typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have records of maintenance if you are purchasing an old mobility device. These records can help you determine if the battery is old and if it's recently been serviced.
Safety
A scooter can be lifesaving for those who are unable to walk due to age or illness but only if operated correctly. A mistake in the use of a mobility scooter can result in injury to the user and others around them. It's important to be aware of the things to look for when purchasing mobility scooters in order to avoid this.
Make sure the scooter comes with an operating manual, which contains model-specific information, including safety guidelines and maintenance schedule. Keep the manual in your possession and read it for reference when using the scooter.
Try the scooter out to see how comfortable it is, and if you are able to operate it with both hands. The scooter should be able to carry the weight you intend to carry.
Check the ground clearance of the scooter to ensure it is able to travel over bumps and other obstacles. Travel/portable scooters have lower ground clearance than larger models, and some specialty scooters might have less clearance.
If you're considering purchasing a used scooter, inquire about the history of its maintenance and repair. These documents could give you valuable information about the condition of the scooter prior to you buy it.
Consider purchasing an item for your scooter like a wheel clamp, to prevent theft. buy mobility scooter is attached to the wheel of the scooter and isn't able to be removed without tools, making it an effective deterrent to thieves.
It's also a good idea to get familiar with the areas that you plan on travelling in, particularly areas that aren't able to accommodate scooter users. Learn about the locations of curb cuts and streets that don't have sidewalks, so you are able to avoid these areas while shopping or visiting your friends.