Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
Buying a mobility scooter is a significant financial investment. Fortunately private insurance companies as well as government programs like Medicare typically cover the cost of a scooter in the event that it's medically needed.
To ensure they buy the right model, individuals who have disabilities that limit their mobility should be aware of about scooters and the options they have. In the beginning, buyers should understand their individual requirements and objectives.
What to Consider
When it comes to selecting the best mobility scooter, there are many factors to consider. There is no one size will fit all. The wrong mobility scooter can cause issues such as a bad fit, a short battery life or even safety concerns.
The first thing to consider is what your parent wants to utilize the scooter for. Do they intend to make use of it to run around or shop? If so, a lightweight mobility device with a long-lasting battery is the best option. If they plan 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 condition may change in the near future, and you'll need to consider whether they will still be able to operate their mobility scooter within a few months or years. If not, then they might have to consider upgrading their scooter or finding a permanent solution such as a power chair.
If possible, your parent should try out a few different mobility scooters before deciding. They can test out how comfortable the seat is and determine if they are able to reach the tiller. They should also sit in the driver's seat to ensure they're comfortable and the scooter fits them comfortably.
Some dealers offer new scooters that have been well-maintained So ask your local dealer if they have any of these available. You can also check with rental companies to see if they have any used scooters for sale. If you decide to purchase an used scooter, it is important to review the warranty and other details to make sure that you are getting what you purchased.
Seating
Some customers purchase scooters with two seats in the hopes of being able to carry friends or family members who want to accompany them on their journeys. However, there could be privacy concerns if those accompanying you are not of a similar weight as this could result in bumping skin-to-skin against them. It could also cause issues with personal space. If these are concerns you are worried about, it is suggested to buy a scooter with a seat behind instead of one with a back and front seat.
A scooter with two seats allows you to not only enjoy the company of a friend or relative, but also to cut costs by not needing to purchase two separate mobility vehicles. By using only one scooter, you'll save money on the cost of electricity and wear and tear. You can even split the cost of fuel.
There are a variety of seating options available when shopping for a 2-seat mobility scooter. Some models have the driver's seat in the front, and the passenger seat behind. Others include both seats in the rear. The majority of mid-range scooters have this configuration however more advanced and premium scooters may come with a 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 easily get the scooter into and out of your vehicle. This will save you time and effort when it comes to preparing for your trip, since all you have to do is guide the scooter onto the lift platform, then turn on the switch. You can then leave and when you are ready to return, simply reverse the procedure.
buy used mobility scooter of a mobility scooter may cause or hinder the experience of riding. A set of quality tires will give you a smooth, comfortable ride, but worn out or damaged ones can be dangerous. It is important to examine the condition of your tires frequently, and replace them when they wear out.
There are three types of scooter tires: pneumatic, foam-filled, and solid. Foam-filled and solid tires will do not flatten, but 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 inner tube of pneumatic tires is filled with air similar to a motorbike or bicycle tire. They're the most commonly used type of tire and can be repaired easily.
There are also tires with lines between the outer tube and the inner tire, providing additional protection against punctures. The owner's manual will inform you the recommended tire pressure. Inflating the tires to this level will help them last longer.
The majority of scooters are controlled via tillers which are T-shaped columns that rotate the front wheels to the left or right. Other controls such as turning and speed signals can be found on the tiller as well. Some tillers have wraparound handles called delta tillers. They are ideal for those with limited dexterity and strength.
Batteries
It is important to select the correct battery in your scooter. The right battery can help extend the lifespan of your scooter. Keep in the mind that batteries lose performance as they age. If you notice that your battery doesn't retain charge as well as before, it may 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 types of batteries have immobile electrolytes and are airtight making them more resistant to jostling. They also have a longer lifespan than other types of batteries. They're slightly more expensive initially but their long-term value is worth it.
A lithium battery is an alternative option. They're more expensive at first, but can last up to 10 times longer than lead acid batteries. They are also safe for air travel and are available with a certificate from the IATA.
When purchasing an electric scooter battery, it's important to look for the model and brand name of the mobility scooter on the label. Using a generic or offbrand model of battery could cause damage to the scooter and cause it to not function correctly. In the same way, if you have an older battery that was charged using another charger, it might not perform similarly.
Contact the manufacturer to see whether your scooter requires more power from the battery. Typically, they will have a list of compatible batteries that are recommended for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have documents of maintenance records in the event that you purchase a used mobility device. They can assist you in determining the age of the battery and if it has been recently serviced.
Safety
A scooter is an essential aid for those who are incapable of walking due to age or illness. But it is essential to use it correctly. If it's not used correctly, it can cause injury to the user or the people in the vicinity. To avoid this, it's essential to understand what to look for when purchasing a mobility scooter prior purchasing.
Make sure the scooter has an operating manual that provides specific information about the model, such as safety guidelines and maintenance schedule. Read the manual and keep it for reference when using the scooter.
Test the scooter's comfort and determine if you're able to operate it with ease using both hands. The scooter must also be able to carry the amount of weight you're planning on transporting.
Examine the ground clearance of the scooter to ensure it can travel over bumps and other obstacles. Travel/portable scooters have lower ground clearance than full-sized models and specialty scooters might have lower clearance.
If you're considering purchasing a used scooter, inquire about its history of maintenance and repair. Sellers may have records of repairs or parts replacements These records can give you a valuable insight into the condition of the scooter prior to you purchase it.
Consider purchasing a security device for your scooter, such as clamps, to stop theft. The device is attached to the wheel of the scooter, and cannot be removed without using tools. It's a great security measure against thieves.
It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the areas that you plan to travel through, especially areas that aren't accommodating to scooter users. You can avoid certain areas by knowing about curb cuts and streets without sidewalks.