Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
The purchase of a mobility scooter is a big financial investment. Fortunately private insurance companies and government programs like Medicare typically cover the cost of a mobility scooter if it's medically necessary.
To ensure that they purchase the correct model, those with disabilities that restrict mobility need to know all about scooters and the alternatives they have. Buyers must first be aware of their own needs and goals.
What to Consider
When it comes to choosing the right mobility scooter, there are a variety of things to consider. There is no any one-size-fits-all mobility scooter. A wrong choice of mobility could cause problems such as a poor fit, low battery life or even safety issues.
The first thing to consider is what your parents want to utilize the scooter for. Do they want to use it to run out for errands or to shop? If so then a light mobility scooter with good battery life is probably the best choice. If they intend to travel on bumpy or uneven terrain, a four-wheel scooter with bigger wheels could be the best option.
Also, take into consideration that your parent's physical health might change in the future, so you'll be able to determine if they will still be able to use their mobility scooter in a few months or years. If not, they might have to look into upgrading their scooter or finding a permanent solution such as a power chair.
Before making a final decision it is important to encourage your parent to try out several different mobility scooters. They can test how comfortable the seat is and see if they can reach the handle. They should also sit in the driver's seat to make sure they're comfortable and the scooter fits the person well.
Some dealers sell new scooters that have been maintained So ask your local dealer for a list of these available. You can also inquire with rental companies to see whether they have used scooters available for sale. If you do decide to purchase an used scooter, be sure to verify the warranty and other specifics to ensure you are getting what you purchased.
Seating
Some people purchase scooters that have two seats to be able to transport family or friends who wish to accompany them on a trip. However, there are privacy issues if the persons who are joining you won't be of the same weight as this could result in bumping skin-to-skin against them, and could cause issues with personal space. If these are concerns you are concerned about, it's recommended to get a seat-behind scooter instead of one with a back and front seat.
A scooter with two seats enables you to not only enjoy the company of a family member or friend, but also to cut costs by not having to buy two mobility vehicles. By using just one scooter, you'll save on electricity and wear and wear and tear. You can even share the cost of fuel.
When you are looking for a 2 seat mobility scooter, there are choices of seating options. Certain models come with an driver's seat in the front and a passenger seat behind, while others include both seats at the rear. The majority of mid-range and premium scooters come with this setup, however, some may only have a front or rear seat.
Another option is to buy an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift, which enables you to effortlessly move the scooter in and out of your vehicle. You can reduce time and effort by purchasing a scooter with a power-operated lift. All you need to do is put the scooter on the lift platform and then turn the switch. You can then leave and when you are ready to return, simply reverse the procedure.
Wheels
The wheels on mobility scooters are an important element of the vehicle and they can either make or break your riding experience. A set of tires that are in good condition will provide you with a smooth, comfortable ride, however 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 types of scooter tires available: pneumatic, solid and foam-filled. scooter to buy near me and foam-filled tires do not flatten, but they are more difficult to move than pneumatic tires. The majority of travel/portable Scooters have solid or spongy tires however, the majority of the full-sized and all-terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
The inner tube of pneumatic tires is filled with air as a motorbike or bicycle tire. They're the most commonly used type of scooter tire and they can be easily repaired.
There are also tires with liners that fit 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 pressure can be found in the owner's manual. Tires will last longer when they are filled to this pressure.
The majority of scooters are controlled by tillers which are T-shaped columns that rotate the front wheels to either the left or right. The tiller may also have other controls, including turning and speed indicators. Some tillers come with handles that wrap around, referred to as delta tillers. These are perfect for those with limited strength and dexterity.
Batteries
Having the right battery in your scooter is vital. The right battery will make your scooter run longer. Keep in the mind that batteries lose performance as they age. If you notice that your battery doesn't hold charge as well as previously, it might be time to replace it.
A gel or AGM battery is a great investment if you want your battery to last for a long time. These batteries are more resistant to squeezing because they feature an airtight structure and an immobile electrolyte. They also have a longer time to last than other lead acid batteries. They're slightly more expensive initially however their long-term cost-effectiveness makes them worthwhile.
A lithium battery is a different option. They're more expensive at first however they can last 10 times longer than lead acid batteries. Additionally, they are suitable for travel in the air and come with a certification from the IATA.
It's important that you look at the label of the scooter battery to see the model and the brand name. Utilizing offbrand or generic batteries could damage your mobility scooter and cause it to work effectively. In the same way, if you have an older battery that was charged using a different charger, it might not function as well.
Make sure to check with the manufacturer to find out if your scooter requires a more powerful 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 determine if the battery is old and if it's recently been serviced.
Safety
A scooter can be lifesaving for people who struggle to walk due to age or illness but only if operated properly. The incorrect use of a scooter could cause injury to the user as well as those who are around them. To avoid this, it's essential to know what to look for in a mobility scooter before buying.
The manual should contain specific information about the model like safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Keep the manual in your pocket for reference when you use the scooter.
Try the scooter out to see how comfortable it is, and if you are able to operate it using both hands. The scooter should be able handle the weight you plan to carry.
Examine the ground clearance to ensure that the scooter can go over bumps, obstacles, and more. The scooters that are portable or travel-friendly have less ground clearance than full-sized models, and specialty scooters may have even lower clearance.
Check the background of maintenance and repair when you purchase a second-hand scooter. The seller might have records of any repairs or replacements of parts, and these documents can provide valuable information about the condition of the scooter before you buy it.
You should consider purchasing the scooter's security device like a wheel clamp, to prevent theft. The device is attached to the wheel of the scooter and cannot be removed without tools. It's a powerful protection against thieves.
It's a good idea also to be familiar with the areas you're planning to travel through, particularly areas where scooters may have trouble. Find out where to find curb cuts and streets that do not have sidewalks, so that you can avoid these areas while shopping or visiting your friends.