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 usually cover the cost of a scooter is medically necessary.
To ensure they buy the correct model, people with travel-limiting disabilities should know about scooters and the options available to them. Buyers must first be aware of their own needs and objectives.
What to Consider
There are a lot of things to take into consideration when selecting the right mobility device. There is no one size is perfect for everyone. Choosing the wrong mobility scooter could cause problems like a poor fit, a poor battery life or even safety concerns.
The first thing to consider is what your parent would like to use the scooter for. Are they planning to use it to run around or shop? If yes then a light mobility scooter with good battery life is probably the best option. If they plan to travel over rough or bumpy terrain, a four-wheeler with larger tires may be the better option.
Keep in mind that the physical health of your parent might change in the next few years. You will need to determine if they will be able drive their mobility scooter after. If not, they may require a change in their mobility scooter or think about an alternative that is more durable, such as the power chair.
If it is possible, your parents should try out a few different mobility scooters before making a decision. They can test out how comfortable the seat feels and test if they can reach the tiller. They should also sit in the driver's seat to ensure that they are comfortable and that the scooter fits them well.
Some dealers sell used scooters that have been taken care of So inquire with your local dealer whether they have any of these available. You can also inquire with rental companies if they have used scooters. If you do buy an used scooter, it is important to verify the warranty and other specifics to ensure that you get what you purchased.
Seating
Some people purchase scooters with two seats with the intention of being able transport friends or family members who would like to join them on their journeys. However, there are privacy concerns if the people who are joining you won't be of a similar weight, as this could result in bumping skin-to-skin against them. It could also cause issues with personal space. If you're concerned about these issues it is recommended to opt for a scooter with a seat behind rather than one that has an front and rear seat.
A scooter with two seats lets you to not only enjoy the company of a family member or friend and family members, but also cut costs by not having to purchase two separate mobility vehicles. You can also save on wear and tear and also electricity by having just one scooter to run, and you can even share the cost of fuel.
There are many seating options to choose from when looking for a mobility scooter with two seats. Some models feature the driver's seat at the front and the passenger's seat behind. Some models have both seats in the rear. The majority of mid-range scooters have this configuration however more advanced and expensive scooters could come with a front seat or a rear seat with a single seat.
Another option is to purchase an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift, which allows you to effortlessly move the scooter into and out of your vehicle. This can help you save time and effort when planning your trip, as all you need to do is direct the scooter to the lift platform, then turn on the switch. After that, you can leave and when you're ready to return, you can reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter can make or ruin your experience riding. A good set of tires will give you an easy, comfortable ride, but old or damaged tires can be dangerous. It is important to examine the condition of your tires frequently and replace them as they wear out.
There are several types of scooter tires available: solid, pneumatic and foam filled. scooter to buy near me and foam-filled scooter tires are not flat, but they are harder to maneuver than pneumatic tires. Most travel/portable Scooters come with rubber or spongy tires while the majority of the full-sized and all terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
The inner tube of pneumatic tires is filled with air similar to bicycle or motorbike tires. They are the most popular type and can be fixed easily.
There are tires that have liner between the outer tube and the inner tire, which provide additional 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.
The majority of scooters are controlled by tillers, which are T shaped columns that move the front wheels to either the left or right. Other controls like turning and speed indicators can be found on the tiller as well. Some tillers come with handles that wrap around called delta tillers. They are ideal for those who have weak dexterity and strength.
Batteries
It is crucial to select the correct battery in your scooter. The right battery can prolong the lifespan of your scooter. Keep in the mind that batteries lose performance over time. If you notice that your battery isn't holding charge as well as it used to, it could be an indication that it's in need of replacement.
A gel or AGM battery is a good option if you want your battery to last for a long time. These batteries are more resistant to squeezing due to their airtight design and an impermeable electrolyte. They also have a longer time to last than other lead acid batteries. However, they are more expensive initially, but their durability makes them economical in the long run.
Another option is to opt for the lithium battery. They're more expensive at first however, they can last 10x longer than lead-acid batteries. Additionally, they are suitable for travel in the air and are available with a certifying from the IATA.
It is important to take a look at the label of the scooter battery to see the model and brand name. If you use a generic or offbrand battery could damage your scooter and cause it to not function properly. If you own an old battery that was charged using a different charger it may not work as well.
Contact the manufacturer to see if your scooter requires an extra powerful battery. They'll typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. If you're buying an old mobility scooter, ask the seller for any maintenance documents they have. These records can help determine whether the battery is in good condition and if it has recently been serviced.
Safety
A scooter can be a lifesaver for those who are unable to walk because of age or illness but only if operated correctly. The incorrect use of a scooter can result in injury to the user and others surrounding them. It is important to be aware of the things to look for when purchasing mobility scooters to avoid this.
Make sure the scooter comes with an operating manual, which contains specific information for your model, including safety guidelines and maintenance schedule. Keep the manual in your pocket for reference while using the scooter.
Test the scooter's comfort and determine if you're able to operate it comfortably with both hands. The scooter should be able to carry the weight you intend to transport.
Examine the ground clearance to ensure the scooter is able to pass over obstacles, bumps and more. Travel/portable scooters have less ground clearance than larger models, and specialty scooters may have even lower clearance.
Check the background of maintenance and repair when you purchase a second-hand scooter. These documents can give you valuable information about the condition of a scooter before you purchase it.
Consider purchasing a security device for your scooter, like clamps, to stop theft. The device is fixed to the wheel of the scooter and can't be removed without using tools. It's an effective deterrent against thieves.
It's also a good idea to be familiar with the areas you intend on travelling in, particularly places that have difficulty accommodating scooter users. Learn about the locations of curb cuts and streets that don't have sidewalks, so you can avoid these areas while shopping or visiting friends.