Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter is an investment that can be costly. Fortunately, private insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare often reimburse the cost of a mobility scooter if it's medically necessary.
People with mobility issues should be aware of the various types of scooters that are available to them. First, they should understand their individual requirements and goals.
What to Consider
When it comes to choosing the best mobility scooter, there are numerous things to consider. There is no any one-size-fits-all mobility scooter. The wrong mobility could result in issues such as a poor fit, a low battery life or even safety issues.
What are your parents planning to use the scooter for? Do they want to use it to run around or shop? If so, a lightweight mobility device with a long battery life would be the best choice. If they plan to travel over bumpy or rough terrain, a four wheel scooter with bigger wheels could be the best option.
Keep in mind that your parent's physical health might change in the future, and you'll need to consider whether they'll be able to drive their mobility scooter in some months or even years. If not, then they might have to look into upgrading their scooter or a more durable alternative such as a power wheelchair.
If you can, your parent should test a few different mobility scooters before making a decision. They can see how comfortable the seat is and whether they are in a position to reach the tiller. They should also sit in the driver's seat to make sure that they are comfortable and the scooter is a good fit for the person well.
Some dealers have used scooters that have been taken care of So inquire with your local dealer if they have any of these available. You can also inquire from rental companies if they offer used scooters. It is important to verify the warranty and other information before purchasing a used scooter.
Seating
Some customers buy scooters with two seats in the hope of being able transport family members or friends who would like to join them on their travels. However, there could be privacy concerns if the people joining you will not be of a similar weight, as it could result in bumping skin-toskin against them. It could also cause issues with personal space. If these are issues you are concerned about, it's recommended 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 companionship of a relative or friend, but also to reduce costs by not having to buy two separate mobility vehicles. mobility scooters to buy can also reduce wear and tear and also electricity by using just one scooter that you can operate, and you can even share the cost of fuel.
When you are looking for a 2 seat mobility scooter, there are many choices of seating options. Certain models have the driver's seat in the front, and the passenger seat behind. Some models include both seats in the rear. The majority of mid-range and premium scooters come with this configuration, but some models may have only an rear or front seat.
You can also buy an electric scooter with a power-operated lifting system. This lets you easily get the scooter into and out of your vehicle. This will save you time and effort when preparing for your trip, since all you have to do is direct the scooter to the lift platform and then turn on the switch. After that, you can leave and when you're ready to return, turn back the procedure.
Wheels
The wheels on a mobility scooter are a crucial element of the vehicle and they can make or break your experience riding. Tires that are in good condition will give you a comfortable, smooth ride. Tires that are damaged or old could be dangerous. It is important to examine the condition of your tires frequently, and replace them when they are worn out.
There are a few different types of scooter tires available: pneumatic, solid and foam-filled. The foam-filled and solid tires are never flat, but are more difficult to maneuver than pneumatic tires. Most travel/portable Scooters come with solid or spongy tires, however, the majority of all terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires come with an inner tube that's air-filled, similar to the motorbike or bicycle tire. These are the most common type and can be repaired easily.
There are also tires with liners that can be fitted between the outer tire and the inner tube, providing added protection against punctures. Most manufacturers recommend a certain 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.
Most scooters are controlled by tillers that are T-shaped columns that turn the front wheels to either the left or right. The tiller could also have other controls, including turning and speed indicators. Some tillers have handles that wrap around known as delta tillers which are perfect for those with limited hand dexterity and strength.
Batteries
It is important to have the right type battery for your scooter. The right battery can extend the lifespan of your scooter. It's also a good idea to keep in mind that batteries will lose performance over time. If you find that your battery isn't able to hold charge as well as before, it could be time to replace it.
A gel or AGM battery is a good option if you wish to have your battery to last for a long time. These types of batteries have immobile electrolyte and are airtight which makes them more resistant jostling. They also have a longer life than other lead acid batteries. They're slightly more expensive initially, but their long-term cost-effectiveness makes them worthwhile.
A lithium battery is a different option. They are more expensive upfront however they can offer up to 10 times the lifespan of lead-acid batteries. Plus, they are safe for air travel and are available with a certification from the IATA.
It is crucial to look at the label of the scooter battery to see the model and the brand name. Using a generic or offbrand model of battery could cause damage to the scooter and cause it to not function properly. If you have an old battery that was recharged using an alternative charger, it might not function as well.
Check with the manufacturer to see whether your scooter requires an extra powerful battery. They will typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. If you are buying an old mobility scooter, ask the seller to provide any maintenance records they have. They can assist you in determining the condition of the battery and if it has been serviced recently.
Safety
A scooter can be an essential aid for those who are unable to walk due to illness or age. However, it is essential to use it correctly. If it's not used correctly, it can cause injury to the user or the people who are around them. It's important to be aware of what to look out for when purchasing a mobility scooter to avoid this.
Make sure that the scooter comes with an operating manual that provides specific information for your model, including safety guidelines and a maintenance schedule. Keep the manual on hand for reference when you use the scooter.
Check the scooter's comfort and determine if you're able to operate it with ease using both hands. The scooter should also be able to handle the amount of weight you'll be carrying.
Examine the ground clearance to ensure the scooter is able to pass over bumps, obstacles, and more. The scooters that are portable or travel-friendly have less ground clearance than full-sized models, and specialty scooters might have less clearance.
Ask about the history of repair and maintenance when you purchase a second-hand scooter. Individual sellers may have records of repairs or replacements of parts, and these documents can give you a valuable insight into the condition of the scooter before you purchase it.
Consider purchasing the scooter's security device like a wheel clamp, to stop theft. The device is fixed to the wheel of the scooter and cannot be removed without using tools. It's a great protection against thieves.
It's important to get familiar with the areas that you plan 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 that you can avoid these areas when you go shopping or visiting friends.