Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter purchase is a big financial investment. Private insurance companies as well as government programs such as Medicare often reimburse the cost if the scooter is medically required.
To ensure that they purchase the right model, individuals with travel-limiting disabilities should know all they can about scooters and what options they have. Buyers must first know 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 any one-size-fits-all mobility scooter. The wrong mobility can cause problems such as a poor fit, a low battery life, or even safety issues.
The first thing to think about is what your parent would like to utilize the scooter for. Do they plan to shop, run errands, or simply take it for rides around the neighborhood? If so, a lightweight mobility device with a long battery lifespan would be the best choice. If they plan to travel over rough or bumpy terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger wheels may be the best choice.
Be aware that the physical condition of your parent may change in a few years. You'll have to determine whether they'll be able to operate their mobility scooter then. If not, then they might need to think about upgrading their scooter or a more permanent solution such as a power chair.
If possible, your parent should test a few different mobility scooters before deciding. They can see how comfortable the seat is and if they are capable of reaching the handle. They should also sit on the driver's side to make sure that the scooter fits their needs and is comfortable.
Ask your local dealer about the possibility of refurbished scooters. You can also ask rental companies if they offer used scooters. If you do decide to purchase an old scooter, it is important to review the warranty and other specifics to make sure that you are getting what you paid for.
Seating
Some people purchase scooters that have two seats to be able to transport family or friends who wish to accompany them on their journey. However, there could be privacy issues if the persons accompanying you are not of a similar weight, as this could result in bumping skin-to-skin against them. It could also create issues with personal space. If you're worried about these concerns, it's recommended that you opt for a scooter with a seat behind instead of one with an front and rear seat.
With a scooter with two seats, you can not only be able to enjoy the company of a relative or friend but also save money by not having to purchase two separate mobility vehicles. By using just one scooter, you will save money on energy and wear and wear and tear. You can even share the cost of fuel.
There are many seating options available when shopping for a two-seat mobility scooter. Some models feature the driver's seat in the front, and the passenger seat behind. Some models have 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.
Another option is to buy an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift, which allows you to easily take the scooter inside and out of your vehicle. This can save you time and effort when it comes to planning your trip, as all you need to do is direct the scooter to the lift platform and turn on the switch. After that, you can leave and when you're ready to return, reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter may cause or hinder your riding experience. Tires that are in good shape will give you a comfortable, smooth ride. Tires that are worn out or damaged can be dangerous. You should inspect your tires regularly and replace them if they are worn.
There are three kinds of scooter tires that are: foam-filled, pneumatic, and solid. The foam-filled and solid tires are never flat, but are more difficult to move than pneumatic ones. Most portable and travel scooters have solid or foam-filled tires, while most all-terrain and full-size scooters use pneumatic tires.
The tube that is inside pneumatic tires is filled with air just like a motorbike or bicycle tire. They are the most popular type and can be repaired easily.
Tires are also available with liners that fit between the outer tire and the inner tube, offering protection against punctures. The owner's manual will tell you the recommended tire pressure. Inflating the tires to this value will help them last longer.
Many scooters are steered using tillers which are columns in the shape of a T that rotate the front wheels to the left or right. Other controls such as speed and turning signals may be located on the tiller too. Some tillers have handles that wrap around, called delta tillers, which are ideal for people who have limited hand dexterity or strength.
Batteries
Having the correct type of battery in your scooter is vital. The right battery can prolong the life of your scooter. You should also keep in your mind that batteries lose performance with time. If you notice that your battery doesn't hold charge as well as it did before, it could be time to replace it.
If you'd like to ensure your battery lasts for a long period of time, then it is worthwhile to invest in a gel battery or an AGM battery. These batteries feature an immobile electrolyte and are airtight making them more resistant to jostling. They also have a longer lifespan than other lead acid batteries. However, they are slightly more expensive initially, but their durability makes them affordable in the long term.
places to buy a scooter near me is another option. They're more expensive at first, but can last up to 10 times longer than lead-acid batteries. They are also suitable for travel in the air and are available with a certifying from the IATA.
When purchasing a scooter battery it is important to look for the model and brand name of the mobility scooter on the label. If you use a generic or offbrand battery could harm your scooter and cause it to not work properly. Similarly, if you have an older battery that has been charged with an alternative charger, it may not function as well.
Make sure to check with the manufacturer to find out the need for a more powerful battery. Typically, they will have an inventory of compatible batteries that are recommended for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have records of maintenance if you are purchasing an old mobility device. They can help you determine the condition of the battery as well as whether it has been serviced recently.
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 who are around them. To avoid this, it's essential to understand what to look for when purchasing a mobility scooter prior buying.
The manual should contain model-specific information such as safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Keep the manual in your possession and read it in mind when you use the scooter.
Test the scooter's comfort and determine if you're able to operate it with ease using both hands. The scooter should be able handle the weight you plan to transport.
Check the ground clearance to ensure the scooter is able to pass over obstacles, bumps and more. Travel/portable scooters have less ground clearance than full-sized models, and some specialty scooters might have less clearance.
If you're considering purchasing a used scooter, ask about its history of maintenance and repairs. These documents could provide valuable information about the condition of a scooter before you buy it.
Consider buying the scooter's security device like a wheel clamp, to stop theft. The device is attached to the wheel of the scooter, and cannot be removed with tools, which makes it an effective deterrent to thieves.
It's important to get familiar with the areas you intend to travel through, especially areas that aren't able to accommodate scooter users. Learn about the locations of curb cuts and streets that do not have sidewalks so that you can avoid these areas when going shopping or visiting friends.