Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
The purchase of a mobility scooter is a big financial investment. Fortunately private insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare often reimburse the cost of a scooter when it's medically required.
To ensure that they purchase the correct model, people who have disabilities that limit their mobility should be aware of all about scooters and the options that are available to them. Buyers must first be aware of their own requirements and objectives.
What to Consider
When it comes time to choose the right mobility scooter, there are numerous things to consider. There is no one size will fit all. The wrong mobility scooter could cause issues such as a bad fit, a poor battery life or even safety concerns.
The first thing to consider is what your parents want to utilize the scooter for. Do they want to go shopping or run errands? Or just ride it around the neighborhood? If yes then a light mobility scooter with a long battery life is probably the best choice. If they want to navigate through rough or uneven terrain, a four-wheeler with larger tires may be a better choice.
Keep in mind that your parent's physical health might change in the future, and you'll have to think about whether they'll still be able to operate their mobility scooter within the next few months or years. If not, they could need to upgrade their mobility scooter or think about a more permanent option like the power chair.
If you can, your parent should test out a couple of different mobility scooters before making a decision. They can determine how comfortable the seat feels and determine if they are able to reach the handle. They should also sit on the driver's side in order to ensure that the scooter fits them and is comfortable.
Some dealers offer refurbished scooters that have been maintained, so ask your local dealer if they have any of these available. You can also inquire with rental companies to find out if they have any used scooters available for sale. It is essential to confirm the warranty and other information prior to purchasing a used scooter.
Seating
Some customers buy scooters with two seating in order to be capable of transporting family or friends who want to accompany them on a trip. However, there could be privacy concerns if those joining you will not be of a similar weight as this could mean bumping skin-to-skin against them. It could also create issues with personal space. If these are concerns you are worried about, it is recommended to purchase a seat-behind scooter instead of one with a back and front seat.
With a scooter that has two seats, you'll be able to not only be able to enjoy the company of a loved one or a friend but also save money by not buying two separate 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 share costs for fuel.
If you're looking for a two seat mobility scooter, there are many choices of seating options. Some models feature 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 scooters come with this arrangement, but more advanced and premium models may come with a front seat or a rear-only seat.
Another option is to purchase the scooter with a powered lift, which permits you to effortlessly take the scooter in and out of your vehicle. You can save time and effort by buying a scooter with a power-operated lift. All you have to do is put the scooter on the lift platform and then turn on the switch. You can then leave and when you are ready to return, just reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter can cause or hinder your riding experience. A set of quality tires will provide a smooth, comfortable ride, however old or damaged ones can be dangerous. It is important to check your tires regularly and replace them if they are worn out.
There are three kinds of scooter tires that are: foam-filled, pneumatic, and solid. Solid and foam-filled scooter tires are never flat, but are more difficult to maneuver than pneumatic tires. The majority of travel/portable Scooters have rubber or spongy tires while the majority of the full-sized and all terrain scooters come with pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires come with an inner tube filled with air like motorbike or bicycle tires. These are the most common type and can be repaired easily.
There are also tires with liner between the outer tube and the inner tire, which offer additional protection against punctures. The owner's manual will show you the recommended tire pressure. Inflating the tires to this value will help them last longer.
The majority of scooters are controlled by tillers that are T-shaped columns that turn the front wheels to the left or right. Other controls, such as turning and speed signals can be on the tiller too. Some tillers come with wraparound handles known as delta tillers which are ideal for people with limited hand dexterity and strength.
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Having the right battery for your scooter is very important. Choosing the correct battery can make your scooter run longer. It is important to keep in your mind that batteries lose performance with time. If you are noticing that your battery isn't able to hold charge as well as it did in the past it could be an indication that it is in need of replacement.
If you'd like to ensure your battery will last for a long time, then it's worthwhile to invest in a gel battery or an AGM battery. These batteries are more resistant to shaking because they have an airtight structure and an immobile electrolyte. They also have a longer life span than other batteries. However, they are more expensive in the beginning, however their longevity makes them affordable in the long term.
Another option is to opt for the lithium battery. They're a bit more expensive initially, but they offer up to 10 times the life span of lead-acid batteries. They're also safe for air travel. They have an IATA certification.
It is crucial to take a look at the label of the battery on your scooter to find the model and brand name. Using a generic or offbrand battery can damage the scooter and result in it not functioning correctly. If you own an old battery that was recharged using a different charger it may not function the same way.
Certain scooters require stronger batteries than others, so be sure to check with the manufacturer. They'll usually have a list with compatible batteries for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have any records of maintenance when you purchase a used mobility device. These can aid in determining the age of the battery and if it has been serviced recently.
Safety
A scooter can be lifesaving for those who struggle to walk due or illness but only if operated properly. Incorrect use of a mobility scooter could cause injury to the user and others who are around them. It's important to know what 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 for your model, including safety guidelines and maintenance schedule. Take a look at the manual and save it in mind when you use the scooter.
Try the scooter out to determine how comfortable it is, and if you are able to operate it using both hands. The scooter should be able to handle the weight you plan to carry.
Verify the ground clearance to make sure the scooter is able to go over obstacles, bumps and more. The scooters that are portable or travel-friendly have less ground clearance than full-sized models and specialty scooters may have even lower clearance.
Find out the background of maintenance and repair in the case of purchasing a used scooter. Individual sellers might have records of any repairs or parts replacements and these records could give you a valuable insight into the condition of the scooter prior to you buy it.
You should consider purchasing a scooter security device, such as a wheel clamp, to stop theft. The device is attached to the wheel of the scooter and isn't able to be removed without tools, making it an effective deterrent to thieves.
It's important to familiarize yourself with the areas you intend to travel in, especially places that have difficulty accommodating scooter users. You can avoid certain areas by studying curb cuts and streets with no sidewalks.