Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
The purchase of a mobility scooter is a big financial investment. Private insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare typically reimburse the cost if a scooter is medically necessary.
Mobility-impaired individuals must be aware of different types of scooters that are available to them. Buyers should first understand their own requirements and objectives.
What to Consider
When it comes to selecting the right mobility scooter, there are numerous factors to consider. There is no such thing as a 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.
What do your parents intend to use the scooter for? Are they planning to use it to run out for errands or to shop? If yes then a lightweight mobility scooter with a long battery life is likely to be the best option. If they intend to travel over bumpy or rough terrain, a four-wheel scooter with bigger wheels could be the best choice.
Also, take into consideration that your parent's physical health might change in the future, so you'll be able to determine if they'll still be able to operate their mobility scooter in the next few months or years. If not, then they might need to consider upgrading their scooter or a more durable solution like a power wheelchair.
If you can, your parent should test a few different mobility scooters before making a decision. They can test out how comfortable the seat feels and determine if they are able to reach the tiller. They should also sit on the driver's side to ensure that the scooter fits their needs and is comfortable.
Some dealers offer new scooters that have been maintained and maintained, so ask your local dealer whether they have any of these available. You can also inquire with rental companies to see if they have any second-hand scooters for sale. 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 people purchase scooters with two seats in the hope of being able to transport family members or friends who wish to join them on their journeys. There could be privacy issues if the persons 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 you're worried about these issues, it's recommended that you purchase a scooter that has a seat behind rather than one that has a front and rear seat.
With a scooter that has two seats, you will not only be able to enjoy the company of a relative or a friend but also save money by not buying two mobility vehicles. You can also reduce wear and tear and also electricity by having just one scooter to operate, and you can even share costs for fuel.
When mobility scooters to buy are looking for a 2 seat mobility scooter, there are a variety of choices of seating options. Certain models come with seats for the driver in the front and a passenger seat behind, while others have both seats in the rear. The majority of mid-range and premium scooters feature this arrangement, however some may only have either a rear or front seat.
Another option is to buy the scooter with a powered lift, which enables you to effortlessly take the scooter inside and out of your vehicle. This can save you time and effort when preparing for your trip, because all you have to do is steer the scooter onto the lift platform and then turn on the switch. Then you can drive away and when you're ready to return, turn back the process.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter could alter or ruin your experience riding. Tires that are in good condition will give you a comfortable and smooth ride. Tires that are damaged or worn out can be dangerous. You should check your tires regularly and replace them if they become worn out.
There are a variety of kinds of scooter tires that are available: pneumatic, solid, and foam filled. Foam-filled and solid tires will do not flatten however they are more difficult to move than pneumatic tires. The majority of travel/portable Scooters have rubber or spongy tires while the majority of all-terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires are made up of an inner tube that's air-filled similar to the motorbike or bicycle tire. They're the most commonly used type of tire and can be repaired easily.
There are tires that have lines 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.
Most scooters are controlled by tillers that are T-shaped columns that rotate the front wheels to the left or right. Other controls like turning and speed signals can be found on the tiller, too. Some tillers have handles that wrap around called delta tillers. These are perfect for people who have limited strength and dexterity.
Batteries
Having the correct type of battery for your scooter is vital. The right battery can prolong the life of your scooter. It's also a good idea to keep in mind that batteries may lose performance over time. If you're noticing that your battery isn't able to hold charge as well as it used to, it could be a sign that it's in need of replacement.
If you'd like 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 are more resistant to shaking because they feature an airtight design and an immobile electrolyte. They also have a longer life than other lead acid batteries. They're a little more expensive upfront however their long-term cost-effectiveness is worth it.
A lithium battery is another option. These are a bit more expensive upfront but they can provide up to 10 times the lifespan of lead-acid batteries. Plus, they're safe for air travel. They have an IATA certification.
It's important that you examine the label on the scooter battery to see the model and brand name. If you use a generic or offbrand model of battery could cause damage to the scooter and result in it not functioning properly. If you have an old battery that was recharged using an alternative charger, it might not function as well.
Contact the manufacturer to determine if your scooter requires more power from the battery. They will typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. If you're buying a used mobility scooter ask the seller for any maintenance documents they have. These records can help you determine whether the battery is old and if it has recently been maintained.
Safety
A scooter can be an essential aid for those who are disabled to walk due to age or illness. However, it must be used correctly. If it's not used correctly, it can cause injuries to the user or those in the vicinity. To avoid this, it's important to know what you should look for when purchasing a mobility scooter prior purchasing.
Make sure that the scooter has an operating manual that contains specific information about the model, such as safety guidelines and a maintenance schedule. Keep the manual on hand for reference when you use the scooter.
Try the scooter out to determine how comfortable it is and whether you can operate it with both hands. The scooter should also be able to handle the amount of weight you'll need to carry.
Check the ground clearance of the scooter to ensure it is able to travel over bumps and other obstacles. Travel/portable models have less clearance than larger scooters, and some models with special features may have even lower clearance.
Ask about the background of maintenance and repair in the case of purchasing a used scooter. These documents could give you valuable information about the condition of a scooter before you buy it.
Consider purchasing a scooter security device such as a wheel clamp, to deter theft. The device attaches to the wheel of the scooter, and can't be removed without tools, so it's a good deterrent for thieves.
It's a good idea also to familiarize yourself the areas that you plan to travel through, particularly areas where scooters may have trouble. Learn about the locations of curb cuts and streets that do not have sidewalks so that you are able to avoid these areas when going shopping or visiting friends.