Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
Mobility scooters are an expensive investment. Private insurance companies and government programs like Medicare typically reimburse the cost if the scooter is medically required.
Mobility-impaired individuals should be familiarized with the different types of scooters available to them. To start with, buyers must understand their specific needs and goals.
What to Consider
There are a lot of things to take into consideration when selecting the best mobility device. There is no one size fits all - and the wrong mobility scooter could lead to issues such as a bad fit, a low battery life or even safety issues.
What do your parents intend to use the scooter for? Do they want to go shopping, run errands, or just ride it around the neighborhood? If yes, then a lightweight mobility scooter with good battery life is the best option. If they want to navigate through rough or uneven terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger tires could be a better choice.
Also, take into consideration that your parent's physical health may change in the near future, and you'll have to think about whether they will still be able to use their mobility scooter within the next few months or years. If not, they may need to look into upgrading their scooter or a more durable alternative such as a power wheelchair.
If you can, your parent should test out a couple of different mobility scooters before deciding. They can test how comfortable the seat is and test if they can reach the handle. They should also sit in the driver's seat to ensure that they are comfortable and that the scooter fits them well.
Ask your local dealer about the possibility of refurbished scooters. You can also inquire from rental companies if they offer used scooters. It is essential to confirm the warranty and other details prior to purchasing an used scooter.
Seating
Some customers purchase scooters with two seats to be able to transport family or friends who wish to join them on a trip. However, there are privacy concerns if the people who are joining you won't be of the same weight as this could result in bumping skin-to-skin against them. It could also create problems with personal space. If you have any of these issues that you are worried about, it is suggested to get a seat-behind scooter instead of one with a back and front seat.
With a scooter that has two seats, you will not only enjoy the company of a loved one or a friend but also save money by not purchasing two separate mobility vehicles. With just one scooter, you can save on the cost of electricity and wear and tear. You can even share the cost of fuel.
When you are looking for a 2 seat mobility scooter, there are a variety of different seating options to consider. Certain models have the driver's seat at the front, and the passenger seat behind. Others include both seats in the rear. The majority of mid-range scooters feature this arrangement however more sophisticated and premium scooters may come with a front seat or a rear seat only.
Another option is to buy a scooter with a power-operated lift, which allows you to effortlessly move the scooter in and out of your vehicle. This can help you save time and effort when it comes to preparing for your trip, as all you need to do is guide the scooter to the lift platform, then turn on the switch. You can then drive away and when you're ready to return, reverse the procedure.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter can make or ruin the experience of riding. A good set of tires will give you an easy, comfortable ride, but old or damaged ones could be dangerous. It is important to check your tires regularly and replace them if they become worn out.
There are several kinds of scooter tires that are available: solid, pneumatic and foam filled. The tires that are filled with foam never go flat, but they are more difficult to move than pneumatic tires. Most portable and travel scooters have solid or foam-filled tires, while most full-sized and all-terrain scooters use pneumatic tires.
The tube that is inside pneumatic tires is filled with air similar to a motorbike or bicycle tire. These are the most common type and can be fixed easily.
There are tires that come with liners that can be fitted between the tire's outer and inner tube, providing added protection against punctures. Most manufacturers recommend a certain tire pressure for each scooter model, and the recommended value is found in the owner's manual. Tires 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 either the left or right. The tiller could also have other controls, such as speed and turning indicators. Some tillers have handles that wrap around, referred to as delta tillers. These are perfect for people who have limited dexterity and strength.
Batteries
Having the correct type of battery for your scooter is crucial. The right battery can extend the life of your scooter. It is also a good idea to remember that batteries may lose performance as they age. If you notice that your battery isn't able hold charge as well as it did before, it could be time to replace it.
A gel or AGM battery is a great option if you wish to have your battery to last for a long time. These batteries come with an immobile electrolyte and are airtight making them more resistant to jostling. They also have a longer lifespan than other lead acid batteries. They're a little more expensive upfront, but their long-term cost-effectiveness makes them worth it.
A lithium battery is an alternative option. They are more expensive initially however, they can last up to 10 times longer than lead-acid batteries. Additionally, they are safe for air travel and come with a certificate from the IATA.
When buying the battery for your scooter it is essential to search for the brand name and model of the mobility scooter on the label. Utilizing offbrand or generic batteries can harm your mobility scooter and cause it not to work effectively. Also, if you own an older battery that has been charged with an alternative charger, it may not function similarly.
Some scooters require more powerful batteries than others, so make sure to consult the manufacturer. They'll usually have a list with compatible batteries for their scooters. If you are buying a used mobility scooter, ask the seller to provide any maintenance records they have. These records can assist you in determining the age of the battery as well as whether it has been serviced recently.
Safety
A scooter is an essential aid for those who are disabled to walk due to age or illness. But it must be used in a safe manner. The incorrect use of a scooter can cause injuries to the user and those who are around them. To avoid this, it's vital to know what to look for when purchasing a mobility scooter prior making the purchase.
The manual should contain specific information about the model such as safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Keep the manual on hand for reference while using the scooter.
Check the scooter's comfort and determine if you're able to operate it easily with both hands. The scooter is also expected to carry the amount of weight you're planning on transporting.
Check the ground clearance of the scooter to ensure that it can maneuver over bumps and other obstacles. The models that are portable or travel-friendly have less clearance than larger scooters, and special models could have even lower clearance.
Check the history of repair and maintenance when you purchase a second-hand scooter. These documents could provide valuable information on the condition of the scooter prior to you buy it.
You should consider purchasing the scooter's security device such as a wheel clamp, to prevent theft. The device is attached to the scooter's wheel and cannot be removed without tools, so it's a good deterrent for thieves.
buy electric mobility scooter 's also a good idea to be familiar with the areas you're planning to travel through, particularly places where scooter users might encounter difficulties. You can avoid certain areas by knowing about curb cuts and streets with no sidewalks.