Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter can be an investment that can be costly. Private insurance companies and government programs like Medicare usually reimburse the cost if the scooter is medically needed.
Individuals with mobility limitations should be familiarized with the various types of scooters available to them. To start with, buyers must understand their specific requirements and goals.
What to Consider
When it comes time to choose the best mobility scooter, there are numerous things to consider. There isn't one size fits all mobility scooter. A wrong choice of mobility could cause problems such as a poor fit, a low battery life or even safety concerns.
What are your parents planning to use the scooter for? Do they intend to use it to complete errands or go shopping? If so then a light mobility scooter that has a long battery life is the best option. If they plan to travel over rough or uneven terrain, a four-wheeler with bigger tires might be the better option.
Be aware that the physical health of your parent could change in the next few years. You'll need to determine whether they will be able to drive their mobility scooter after. If not, they may need to look into upgrading their scooter or a more permanent alternative such as a power wheelchair.
If possible, your parent should test a few different mobility scooters before deciding. They can test how comfortable the seat feels and if they are capable of reaching the handle. They should also sit in the driver's seat to ensure they're comfortable and the scooter is a good fit for them comfortably.
Some dealers have used scooters that have been taken care of and maintained, so ask your local dealer for a list of these available. You can also inquire from rental companies if they sell used scooters. If you decide to purchase a used scooter, it is important to check the warranty and other specifics to ensure you're getting what you paid for.
Seating
Some people purchase scooters with two seats in the hope of being able to carry family members or friends who want to accompany them on their journeys. There can be privacy issues if the people who will be with you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they'll be bumping into each other and causing issues with personal space. If you're concerned about these issues it is recommended to get a scooter with a seat behind rather than one that has an front and rear seat.
A scooter with two seats allows you to not only enjoy the companionship of a friend or relative, but also to cut costs by not having to purchase two mobility vehicles. You can also reduce wear and tear and also electricity by only having one scooter that you can operate, and you can even split 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's seat behind, while some have both seats in the rear. Most mid-range and premium scooters have this configuration, but some models may have only an rear or front seat.
You can also buy a scooter that has a power-operated lifting system. This lets you effortlessly lift the scooter into and out of your vehicle. You can cut down on time and effort by buying an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift. All you need to do is place the scooter on the lift platform and then turn on the switch. You can then drive away and when you're ready to return, reverse the procedure.
Wheels
The wheels on a mobility scooter are a vital component of the vehicle, and they can either make or break your riding experience. Tires that are in good shape will give you a comfortable and smooth ride. Tires that are damaged or old can be dangerous. It's important to check the condition of your tires frequently and replace them if they wear out.
There are a variety of kinds of scooter tires that are available: solid, pneumatic, and foam filled. 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, whereas the majority of all-terrain and full-size scooters use pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires are made up of an inner tube filled with air similar to the motorbike or bicycle tire. They're the most commonly used type of scooter tire and they're easily repaired.
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. Tires will last longer if they are filled to this pressure.
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. Other controls like speed and turning signals may be on the tiller, too. Some tillers have wraparound handles called delta tillers. These are great for those who have weak strength and dexterity.
Batteries
It is essential to choose the correct type of battery in your scooter. Choosing the correct battery can make your scooter last longer. It is important to keep in the mind that batteries 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.
If you want 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 are more resistant to jostling because they have an airtight design and an impermeable electrolyte. They also have a longer lifespan than other batteries. However, they are more expensive upfront, although their durability makes them affordable in the long term.
Another option is to select a lithium battery. They're more expensive initially, but can last up to 10 times longer than lead-acid batteries. They are also suitable for travel in the air and come with a certifying from the IATA.
It's important that you look at the label of the scooter battery to see the model and the brand name. The use of offbrand or generic batteries can damage your mobility scooter and cause it to work properly. Also, if you own an older battery that was charged with another charger, it may not work similarly.
Certain scooters require stronger batteries than others, so make 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, in the event that you purchase an old mobility device. These records can help determine whether the battery is in good condition and if it's recently been serviced.
Safety
A scooter can be an essential aid for those who are incapable of walking due to illness or age. However, it must be used correctly. Incorrect 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 in a mobility scooter before purchasing.
best mobility scooter to buy should include model-specific information such as safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Take a look at the manual and save it for reference when using the scooter.
Test the scooter to see how comfortable it is, and if you are able to operate it with both hands. The scooter is also expected to handle the amount of weight you'll be carrying.
Verify the ground clearance to make sure the scooter is able to pass over bumps, obstacles, and more. Travel/portable models have less clearance than larger scooters, and special models could have even smaller clearance.
If you're considering purchasing a used scooter, ask about the history of its maintenance and repairs. These documents can provide valuable information about the condition of the scooter before you buy it.
Consider buying an item for your scooter like a wheel clamp, to prevent theft. The device is attached to the wheel of the scooter and can't be removed with tools, which makes it a good deterrent for thieves.
It's a good idea also to get familiar with the area that you plan to travel through, specifically places where scooter users may have trouble. You can steer clear of certain areas by studying curb cuts and streets without sidewalks.