Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
Buying a mobility scooter is a significant financial investment. Fortunately private insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare often reimburse the cost of a mobility scooter in the event that it's medically needed.
Mobility-impaired individuals should be aware of the different types of scooters that are available to them. First, they should understand their individual requirements and objectives.
What to Consider
When it comes to choosing the right mobility scooter, there are numerous factors to consider. There is no one size fits all - and the wrong mobility scooter could lead to problems like a poor fit, a short battery life or even safety issues.
What will your parent use the scooter for? Do they want to go shopping or run errands? Or simply take it for rides around the neighborhood? If yes, a light mobility device with a long-lasting battery would be the best choice. If they intend to travel over bumpy or rough terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger tires may be a better choice.
Keep in mind that the physical health of your parent might change in a few years. You will need to determine if they'll be able to operate their mobility scooter after. If not, they may require a new scooter or look at the more permanent option of the power chair.
If you can, your parent should test out a couple of different mobility scooters before making a decision. They can test out how comfortable the seat feels and see if they can reach the tiller. They should also sit on the driver's side to make sure that the scooter fits them and is comfortable.
Some dealers offer refurbished scooters that have been well-maintained, so inquire with your local dealer if they have any of these available. You can also check with rental companies to see whether they have used scooters available for sale. If you do decide to purchase an old scooter, you need to verify the warranty and other details to make sure that you are getting what you purchased.
Seating
Some customers purchase scooters that have two seats in order to be capable of transporting family members or friends who wish to accompany them on their journey. There are privacy issues if the people who will be with you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they will be bumping into each other and creating problems with personal space. If you're worried about these issues it's recommended to purchase a scooter that has a seat behind rather than one which has a front and rear seat.
With a scooter with two seats, you'll be able to not only be able to enjoy the company of a relative or friend but also save money by not purchasing two mobility vehicles. You can also reduce wear and tear as well as electricity by using just one scooter that you can operate and even share costs for fuel.
When you are looking for a 2 seat mobility scooter, there are many different seating options to consider. Some models have 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 have this configuration, but more advanced and premium scooters may have either an front seat or a rear seat only.
You can also purchase one with a power-operated lifting system. This lets you easily get the scooter into and out of your vehicle. This can help you save time and effort when it comes to planning your trip, as all you need to do is direct the scooter onto the lift platform and then turn on the switch. After that, you can leave and when you're ready to return, reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels on a mobility scooter are an important component of the vehicle, and they can either make or break the experience you have. Tires that are in good condition will give you a comfortable, smooth ride. Tires that are damaged or old can be dangerous. It is important to examine the condition of your tires frequently and replace them if they get worn out.
There are three types of scooter tires: pneumatic, foam-filled, and solid. The tires that are filled with foam never go flat however they are more difficult to move than pneumatic tires. The majority of travel/portable Scooters have solid or spongy tires however, the majority of all-terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
The tube inside pneumatic tires is filled with air similar to bicycle or motorbike tires. They're the most popular type of scooter tire, and they are easily repaired.
There are buy motor scooter near me that have liners between the outer tube and the inner tire, which provide additional protection against punctures. The majority of manufacturers recommend a specific tire pressure for each scooter model and the recommended pressure can be found in the owner's manual. Inflating the tires to this value will help them last longer.
Many scooters are controlled by tillers which are columns in the shape of a T which turn the front wheels either left or right. Other controls like turning and speed indicators can be located on the tiller as well. Some tillers have wraparound handles called delta tillers. They are ideal for those with limited strength and dexterity.
Batteries
Having the right type of battery for your scooter is very important. The right battery can prolong the life of your scooter. It is important to keep in your mind that batteries lose performance as they age. If you notice that your battery doesn't hold charge as well as it did before, it may be time to replace it.
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 batteries are more resistant to jostling because they feature an airtight design and an impermeable electrolyte. They also have a longer life than other lead acid batteries. They're a little more expensive initially, but their long-term cost-effectiveness makes them worth it.
A lithium battery is an alternative option. They're a bit more expensive upfront however they can offer up to 10 times the life span of lead-acid batteries. Additionally, they are safe for air travel and come with a certification from the IATA.
It is important to take a look at the label of the scooter battery to see the model and the brand name. Using generic or offbrand batteries can harm your mobility scooter and cause it not to function effectively. Also, if you own an older battery that was charged using another charger, it might not work as well.
Certain scooters require stronger batteries than others, so be sure to inquire with the manufacturer. Typically, they'll have a list of compatible batteries that are recommended for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have documentation of maintenance, when you purchase an old mobility device. These records can help determine if the battery is old and if it has recently been maintained.
Safety
A scooter can be lifesaving for people who struggle to walk due or illness but only if operated properly. Incorrect use of a mobility scooter can cause injuries to the user as well as those surrounding them. To avoid this, it's essential to know what to look for in a mobility scooter before buying.
The manual should include model-specific information like safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Read the manual and keep it handy when you are using the scooter.
Test the scooter's comfort and determine if you're able to operate it easily with both hands. The scooter should be able to take on the weight you want to transport.
Verify the ground clearance to ensure the scooter is able to pass over obstacles, bumps and more. Travel/portable models have less clearance than larger scooters, and special models could have even lower clearance.
Find out the background of maintenance and repair in the case of purchasing a used scooter. Individual sellers may have records of repairs or parts replacements, and these documents can provide valuable information about the condition of the scooter prior to you purchase it.
Consider buying the scooter's security device, such as a wheel clamp, to prevent theft. The device is attached to the wheel of the scooter, and can't be removed without tools, so it's an effective deterrent to thieves.
It's important to be familiar with the areas you plan on travelling in, particularly areas that aren't accommodating to scooter users. Find out where to find curb cuts and streets that do not have sidewalks so that you can avoid these areas when going shopping or visiting friends.