From All Over The Web From The Web: 20 Awesome Infographics About Buying Mobility Scooter
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 frequently cover the cost of a scooter when it's medically required.
People with mobility issues must be aware of various types of scooters that are that are available to them. To start with, buyers should understand their individual needs and goals.
What to Consider
There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing the best mobility device. There isn't any one-size-fits-all mobility scooter. The wrong mobility could result in issues such as a poor fit, a low battery life or even safety concerns.
What will your parent use the scooter for? Do they intend to make use of it to run around or shop? If so, a lightweight mobility device with a long battery lifespan is the best choice. If they intend to navigate through bumpy or rough terrain, a four-wheeler with larger tires could be the better option.
Keep in mind that the physical condition of your parent may change in a few years. You will need to decide whether they will be able drive their mobility scooter after. If not, then they may need to look into upgrading their scooter or a more permanent solution such as a power chair.
If you can, your parent should try out a few different mobility scooters before deciding. They can test how comfortable the seat feels and if they are capable of reaching the tiller. They should also sit on the driver's side to ensure that the scooter fits their needs and is comfortable.
Some dealers sell new scooters that have been taken care of, so inquire with your local dealer whether they have any of these available. You can also inquire with rental companies to see whether they have any used scooters available for sale. If you do buy an used scooter, you need to check the warranty and other information to ensure that you get what you purchased.
Seating
Some customers buy scooters that have two seats to be capable of transporting family or friends who want to accompany them on their journey. However, there are privacy issues if the persons joining you will not be of the same weight as this could result in bumping skin-to-skin against them and may also cause issues with personal space. If these are concerns you are concerned about, it's recommended to get a seat-behind scooter instead of one with a front and back seat.
A scooter with two seats allows you to not only be a part of a relative or friend, but also to save money by not needing to purchase two separate mobility vehicles. You can also reduce wear and tear and also electricity by only having one scooter to operate and split the cost of fuel.
There are many seating options to choose from when shopping for a two-seat mobility scooter. Some models feature the driver's seat in the front, and the passenger seat behind. Some models have both seats in the rear. Most mid-range and premium scooters come with this setup, 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 enables you to effortlessly move the scooter inside and out of your vehicle. This will save you time and effort when it comes to planning your trip, as all you need to do is direct the scooter to the lift platform and then turn on the switch. Then you can drive away and when you're ready to return, turn back the process.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter could make or ruin your riding experience. Tires that are in good condition will give you a comfortable, smooth ride. Tires that are worn out or damaged can pose a risk. It's important to check the condition of your tires regularly and replace them as they are worn out.
There are a few different kinds of scooter tires that are available: solid, pneumatic, and foam filled. Solid and foam-filled scooter tires are not flat, but they are more difficult to maneuver than pneumatic tires. The majority of travel/portable Scooters have rubber or spongy tires however, the majority of full-sized and all-terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires are made up of an inner tube filled with air, similar to motorbike or bicycle tires. They're the most commonly used type of scooter tire and they are easily repaired.
There are also tires with liners that fit between the outer tire and the inner tube, giving protection against punctures. The owner's manual will tell you the recommended tire pressure. Inflating the tires to this value will help them last longer.
A lot of scooters are controlled with tillers which are columns in the shape of a T that rotate the front wheels left or right. The tiller may also have other controls, such as speed and turning indicators. Some tillers come with wraparound handles called delta tillers. These are perfect for people who have limited strength and dexterity.
Batteries
It is essential to choose the correct type of battery in your scooter. The right battery can help extend the life of your scooter. Keep in your mind that batteries lose performance with time. If you notice that your battery isn't able retain charge as well as 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 squeezing because they feature an airtight structure and an immobile electrolyte. They also have a longer lifespan than other lead acid batteries. However, they are more expensive in the beginning, however their longevity makes them affordable in the long term.
A lithium battery is a different option. They're more expensive initially however, they can last up to 10 times longer than lead acid batteries. Additionally, they're safe for air travel. They are backed by an IATA certification.
When buying a scooter battery it is essential to search for the brand name and model of the mobility scooter on the label. Using a generic or offbrand model of battery could damage the scooter and cause it to not function properly. If you have an older battery that was recharged using an alternative charger, it might not function similarly.
Contact the manufacturer to find out the need for a more powerful battery. They typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. If you are purchasing an old mobility scooter, ask the seller for any maintenance records they have. They can aid in determining the age of the battery and whether it has been recently serviced.
Safety
A scooter can be a lifesaver for those who are unable to walk because of age or illness but only if used correctly. buying a second hand mobility scooter can cause injury to the user or the people who are around them. To avoid this, it's essential to know what to look for in a mobility scooter before purchasing.
The manual should include specific information about the model such as safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Keep the manual on hand for reference while using the scooter.
Test the scooter to see how comfortable it is, and whether you can operate it with both hands. The scooter is also expected to handle the amount of weight you're planning on transporting.
Check the ground clearance to make sure the scooter is able to pass over bumps, obstacles, and more. Travel/portable scooters have less ground clearance than larger models, and specialty scooters may have even lower clearance.
If you're considering purchasing a used scooter, inquire about the history of its maintenance and repair. Sellers may have records of repairs or parts replacements, and these documents can give you a valuable insight into the condition of the scooter prior to you purchase it.
You should consider purchasing a security device for your scooter, like clamps, which can deter theft. The device is connected to the wheel of the scooter and cannot be removed without tools. It's an effective security measure against thieves.
It's important to be familiar with the areas you plan to travel in, especially areas that aren't accommodating to scooter users. Find out where to find curb cuts and streets that do not have sidewalks, so you can avoid these areas when you go shopping or visiting friends.
