Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter can be an investment that is costly. Fortunately private insurance companies as well as government programs such as Medicare often reimburse the cost of a scooter when it's medically required.
To ensure that they purchase the right model, individuals with travel-limiting disabilities should know all they can about scooters and what alternatives available to them. In the beginning, buyers should understand their individual needs and goals.
What to Consider
There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing the best mobility device. There is no one size that will fit all. The wrong mobility scooter could lead to problems such as a poor fit, a short battery life or even safety issues.
The first thing to consider is what your parent would like to utilize the scooter for. Do they want to use it to complete errands or go shopping? If yes, a light mobility device with a long battery lifespan is the best choice. If they plan to travel over rough or bumpy terrain, a four wheel scooter with larger wheels might be the best option.
Keep in mind that the physical condition of your parent may change over the course of a few years. You'll have to determine if they'll be able to operate their mobility scooter in the future. If not, they might have to consider upgrading their scooter or a more durable solution like a power wheelchair.
If it is possible, your parents should test out a couple of different mobility scooters before making a decision. They can test how comfortable the seat feels and determine if they are able to reach the handle. They should also sit on the driver's side in order to ensure that the scooter fits them and is comfortable.
Ask your local dealer about refurbished scooters. You can also check with rental companies to see whether they have used scooters for sale. It is essential to confirm the warranty and other details before purchasing a used scooter.
Seating
Some customers buy scooters with two seating in order to be capable of transporting family or friends who want to accompany them on a trip. However, there can be privacy concerns if the people accompanying you are not of a similar weight as this could mean bumping skin-to-skin against them and may also cause issues with personal space. If you're concerned about these issues it's recommended to get a scooter with a seat behind rather than one with an 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 friend but also save money by not having to purchase two separate mobility vehicles. With just one scooter, you'll save money on electricity and wear and tear. You can even share the cost of fuel.
There are many seating options to choose from when looking for a two-seat mobility scooter. Some models feature the driver's seat at the front, and the passenger seat behind. Some models have both seats in the rear. The majority of mid-range scooters feature this arrangement however more advanced and premium scooters may come with one seat in the front or a rear-only seat.
Another option is to purchase a scooter with a power-operated lift, which permits you to effortlessly take the scooter into and out of your vehicle. You can cut down on time and effort by purchasing the scooter with a powered lift. All you need to do is put the scooter on the lift platform, and then turn on the switch. After that, you can leave and when you're ready to return, turn back the process.
Wheels
The wheels on a mobility scooter are a crucial element of the vehicle and they can either make or break your riding experience. Tires that are in good condition will provide a comfortable and smooth ride. Tires that are damaged or old could be dangerous. It is essential to check the condition of your tires frequently, and replace them when they get worn out.
There are three kinds of scooter tires including foam-filled, pneumatic and solid. The foam-filled and solid tires are not flat, but they are more difficult to move than pneumatic ones. The majority of portable and travel scooters have solid or spongy tires while the majority of full-sized and all-terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
The inner tube of pneumatic tires is filled with air, as bicycle or motorbike tires. They're the most popular type of scooter tire and they're easily repaired.
There are tires that have lines between the tube's outer and inner tire, providing additional protection against punctures. The majority of manufacturers recommend a specific tire pressure for each scooter model, and the recommended pressure is found in the owner's manual. Inflating the tires to this pressure will help them last longer.
A lot of scooters are controlled with tillers which are columns in the shape of a T that turn the front wheels to the left or right. The tiller could also have other controls, such as speed and turning indicators. Some tillers come with wraparound handles called delta tillers. These are perfect for those who have weak dexterity and strength.
Batteries
Having the right type of battery in your scooter is vital. Selecting the right battery will make your scooter last longer. You should also keep in mind that batteries lose their performance as they age. If you are noticing that your battery isn't able to hold charge as well as it used to, it could be a sign that it is in need of replacement.
If you'd like to ensure your battery lasts for a long time, it's worthwhile to invest in a gel battery or an AGM battery. These types of batteries have immobile electrolytes and are airtight which makes them more resistant to jostling. They also have a longer life than other lead acid batteries. They're slightly more expensive initially, but their long-term cost-effectiveness is worth it.
A lithium battery is a different option. These are a bit more expensive initially, but they offer up to 10 times the longevity of lead-acid batteries. Plus, they're safe for travel in the air. They come with an IATA certification.
It is important to take a look at the label of the battery on your scooter to find the model and brand name. A generic or offbrand battery can damage the scooter and cause it to not function properly. In the same way, if you have an older battery that was charged using another charger, it might not work in the same way.
Some scooters require more powerful batteries than others, so be sure to inquire with the manufacturer. Typically, they will have a list of compatible batteries that are recommended for their scooters. If you are buying a used mobility scooter ask the seller for any maintenance records they have. These records can help you determine the age of the battery and whether it was recently serviced.
Safety
A scooter can be lifesaving for people who struggle to walk due to age or illness however, only if it's operated correctly. If it's not used correctly, it can cause injury to the user or those in the vicinity. It is important to know what to look for when purchasing mobility scooters to avoid this.
Make sure that the scooter comes with an operating manual that contains specific information for your model, including safety guidelines and maintenance schedule. Take a look at the manual and save it in mind when you use the scooter.
Test drive the scooter to see how comfortable it is, and whether you can operate it with both hands. The scooter is also expected to carry the amount of weight you're planning on transporting.
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 larger models, and specialty scooters may have even lower clearance.
Check the history of repair and maintenance when you purchase a second-hand scooter. These documents can provide valuable information on the condition of a
