Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter can be an investment that is costly. Fortunately private insurance companies and government programs like Medicare often reimburse the cost of a mobility scooter when it's medically required.
To ensure that they purchase the right model, individuals with disabilities that restrict mobility need to know about scooters and the alternatives available to them. Buyers must first be aware of their own needs and objectives.
What to Consider
There are a lot of things to consider when choosing the best mobility device. There is no one size that is perfect for everyone. Choosing the wrong mobility scooter could cause problems 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 light mobility device with a long battery lifespan would be the best choice. If they intend to travel over rough or bumpy terrain, a four wheel scooter with larger wheels might be the best choice.
Also, take into consideration that your parent's physical health could change in the near future, so you'll need to consider whether they'll be able to use their mobility scooter in a few months or years. If not, then they may need to look into upgrading their scooter or a more durable alternative such as a power wheelchair.
Before making a final decision, you should encourage your parent to try out several different mobility scooters. They can see how comfortable the seat is and whether they are able to reach the tiller. They should also sit in the driver's seat to make sure that they feel comfortable and the scooter is a good fit for the person well.
Ask your local dealer about used scooters. You can also inquire from rental companies if they have used scooters. It is crucial to confirm the warranty and other details prior to purchasing a used scooter.
Seating
Some people purchase scooters with two seats with the intention of being able transport family members or friends who would like to join them on their travels. There are privacy issues if the persons who will be with you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they will be bumping into each other and causing issues with personal space. If you're concerned about these concerns it's recommended to purchase a scooter that has a seat behind instead of one that has an front and rear seat.
With a scooter that has two seats, you'll be able to not only enjoy the company of a family member or a friend and save money by not having to purchase two mobility vehicles. By using only one scooter, you'll save money on electricity and wear and tear. You can even share the cost of fuel.
When shopping for a 2 seat mobility scooter, there are a variety of choices of seating options. Some models have the driver's seat in the front and the passenger's seat behind. Some models include both seats in the rear. The majority of premium and mid-range scooters have this arrangement, however certain models might only have a front or rear seat.
Another option is to buy an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift, which permits you to easily take the scooter in and out of your vehicle. This can save you time and effort when it comes to planning your trip, because all you have to do is direct the scooter to the lift platform and then turn on the switch. You can then drive away and when you're ready to return, you can reverse the procedure.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter could cause or hinder your experience riding. Tires that are in good condition will give you a comfortable and smooth ride. Tires that are worn out or damaged can be dangerous. You should inspect your tires frequently and replace them if they are worn out.
There are three types of scooter tires: pneumatic, foam-filled, and solid. The foam-filled and solid tires are never flat, but are harder to move than pneumatic ones. Most travel/portable Scooters come with rubber or spongy tires while the majority of the full-sized and all terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires are made up of an inner tube that's air-filled, similar to a bicycle or motorbike tire. They're the most common type of scooter tire, and they can be easily repaired.
Tires are also available with liners that can be fitted between the tire's outer and inner tube, offering protection against punctures. The owner's manual will tell you the recommended tire pressure. buy second hand scooter near me will last longer if they are inflated to this pressure.
A lot of scooters are controlled with tillers which are columns in the shape of a T which turn the front wheels left or right. The tiller can also include other controls, such as turning and speed indicators. Some tillers come with wraparound handles, called delta tillers, which are great for those with limited hand dexterity or strength.
Batteries
Having the right type of battery in your scooter is crucial. The right battery will make your scooter run longer. It's important to remember that batteries will lose performance as they age. If you are noticing that your battery isn't holding charge as well as it did in the past, it could be an indication that it is in need of replacement.
A gel or AGM battery is a great investment if you want your battery to last for a long time. These batteries are more resistant to shaking because they feature an airtight design and an immobile 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 are more expensive initially however, they can last 10 times longer than lead acid batteries. Additionally, they are safe for air travel and are available with a certification from the IATA.
It is important to examine the label on the scooter battery to see the model and the brand name. Utilizing offbrand or generic batteries can harm your mobility scooter and cause it not to work properly. If you have an old battery that was recharged using an alternative charger, it might not work as well.
Some scooters require more powerful batteries than others, so make sure to consult 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 documents they have. These records can assist you in determining the condition of the battery as well as whether it has been serviced recently.
Safety
A scooter is a lifesaver to people who are unable to walk due to age or illness. However, it must be used in a safe manner. Incorrect use can cause injury to the user or those in the vicinity. To avoid this, it's vital to know what to look for in a mobility scooter prior to making the purchase.
The manual should include specific information about the model such as safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Keep the manual in your possession and read it for reference when using the scooter.
Try the scooter out to determine how comfortable it feels, and if you are able to operate it with both hands. The scooter must also be able to carry the amount of weight you'll need to carry.
Examine the ground clearance to ensure the scooter can go over obstacles, bumps and more. Travel/portable scooters have lower ground clearance than full-sized models and some scooters with special features might have less clearance.
If you're considering purchasing a used scooter, ask about the history of its maintenance and repairs. These documents could 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, which can deter theft. The device is connected to the wheel of the scooter and cannot be removed without tools. It's a powerful protection against thieves.
It's also a good idea to get familiar with the area that you plan to travel through, specifically areas where scooter riders might have issues. You can avoid certain areas by knowing about curb cuts and streets with no sidewalks.