Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
Mobility scooters are an expensive investment. Private insurance companies as well as government programs such as Medicare often pay for the cost if the scooter is medically required.
Individuals with mobility limitations should be aware of the different types of scooters that are available to them. To start with, buyers must understand their specific requirements and objectives.
What to Consider
When it comes time to choose the best mobility scooter, there are many aspects to take into consideration. There isn't such thing as a 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.
The first thing to think about is what your parent would like to use the scooter for. Do they need to go shopping, run errands, or just ride it around the neighborhood? If yes, a light mobility device with a long-lasting battery is the best choice. If they intend to travel over bumpy or rough terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger wheels may be the best choice.
Keep in mind that your parent's physical health might change in the future, so you'll be able to determine if they'll still be able to drive their mobility scooter in the next few months or years. If not, then they might need to consider upgrading their scooter or a more permanent solution such as a power chair.
If buy mobility scooters near me is possible, your parents should test a few different mobility scooters before deciding. They can test how comfortable the seat is and test if they can reach the tiller. They should also sit on the driver's side in order to ensure that the scooter fits their needs and is comfortable.
Ask your local dealer about refurbished scooters. You can also ask rental companies if they offer used scooters. If you do decide to purchase an used scooter, it is important to check the warranty and other details to make sure that 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. However, there can be privacy issues if the persons accompanying you are not of the same weight as it could result in bumping skin-toskin against them and may also cause issues with personal space. If you're concerned about these concerns, it's recommended that you opt for a scooter with a seat behind instead of one that has two seats in the front and back.
A scooter with two seats lets you to not only be a part of a relative or friend and family members, but also save money by not having to buy two separate mobility vehicles. You can also save on wear and tear as well as electricity by having just one scooter to run, and you can even share the cost of fuel.
There are a variety of seating options available when shopping for a two-seat mobility scooter. Certain models come with a driver's seat in the front and a passenger seat behind, whereas others have both seats at the rear. The majority of premium and mid-range scooters come with this setup, however, some may only have either a rear or front seat.
You can also purchase a scooter that has an electric lifting system. This allows you to easily get the scooter into and out of your car. This can save you time and effort when preparing for your trip, since all you have to do is steer the scooter to the lift platform, then turn on the switch. Then you can drive away and when you're ready to return, turn back the procedure.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter can cause or hinder your experience riding. A good set of tires will provide you with an enjoyable, smooth ride, but worn out or damaged ones could be dangerous. You should check your tires frequently and replace them when they get worn.
There are a variety of kinds of scooter tires that are available: pneumatic, solid and foam filled. 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 and the majority of all terrain scooters come with pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires come with an inner tube that's air-filled like the motorbike or bicycle tire. They're the most commonly used type and can be repaired easily.
There are also tires with lines between the outer tube and the inner tire, providing additional protection against punctures. Most manufacturers recommend a certain tire pressure for each scooter model, and the recommended value is found in the owner's manual. Inflating the tires to this value will ensure they last longer.
Many scooters are controlled by tillers that are T-shaped columns that turn the front wheels either left or right. Other controls, such as turning and speed indicators can be located on the tiller too. Some tillers come with handles that wrap around, referred to as delta tillers. These are perfect for people who have limited strength and dexterity.
Batteries
Having the correct type of battery in your scooter is very important. Choosing the correct battery can make your scooter run for longer. It is also a good idea to remember that batteries may lose performance over time. If you notice that your battery doesn't hold charge as well as it did previously, it might be time to replace it.
A gel or AGM battery is a great investment if you want your battery to last a long time. These batteries are more resistant to shaking because they feature an airtight structure and an immobile electrolyte. They also have a longer lifespan than other lead acid batteries. They are slightly more costly initially however their long-term cost-effectiveness makes them worth it.
Another option is to select an lithium battery. They are more expensive initially however, they can last 10 times longer than lead acid batteries. They are also suitable for travel in the air and come with a certification from the IATA.
When purchasing the battery for your scooter it is essential to search for the model and brand name of the mobility scooter on the label. Using generic or offbrand batteries could damage your mobility scooter and cause it not to function effectively. If you own an old battery that was recharged using a different charger it may not perform similarly.
Check with the manufacturer to find out the need for a more powerful battery. Typically, they'll have a list of compatible batteries recommended for their scooters. If you are purchasing an old mobility scooter, ask the seller for any maintenance records they have. They can help you determine the condition of the battery as well as whether it has been serviced recently.
Safety
A scooter can be a lifesaver for people who struggle to walk due or illness however, only if it's operated properly. A mistake in use could cause injuries to the user or the people around them. It is essential to be aware of the things to look for when purchasing mobility scooters in order to avoid this.
Make sure that the scooter comes with an operating manual that provides specific information about the model, such as safety guidelines and maintenance schedule. Keep the manual on hand for reference when you use the scooter.
Try the scooter out to see how comfortable it is, and whether you can operate it with both hands. The scooter should be able to carry the weight you intend to transport.
Check the ground clearance to make sure the scooter can go over bumps, obstacles and more. Travel/portable models have less clearance than full-sized scooters, and special models could have even lower clearance.
If you're purchasing a second-hand scooter, inquire about the history of its maintenance and repair. These documents may give you valuable information about the condition of the scooter prior to you purchase it.
Consider purchasing a security device for your scooter, such as clamps, to stop theft. The device attaches to the wheel of the scooter, and isn't able to be removed with tools, which makes it a good deterrent for thieves.
It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the areas you plan to travel in, especially places that have difficulty accommodating scooter users. Know the location of curb cuts and streets that do not have sidewalks, so that you can avoid these areas when going shopping or visiting friends.