Lifestyle

6/2/2023 | By Donna Brody

In choosing a mobility scooter, knowing what to look for can ensure a decision that will best meet the individual’s needs.

When it comes to purchasing a mobility scooter, it’s OK to say, “You’re not my type.” That’s because there are a plethora of options to choose from when deciding which kind of transport will best suit your own or your loved one’s needs.

The need for a mobility scooter

An individual may lose the ability to move freely and easily, due to chronic pain, arthritis, injury, and other physical limitations. This loss of mobility can make routine daily tasks difficult, such as shopping, going to a doctor’s appointment, and even spending time with friends and family. Not only does this make day-to-day independent living more challenging, it can lead to isolation and loneliness.

When mobility issues affect quality of life and canes, walkers, rollators, and manual wheel chairs are no longer a viable option, a mobility scooter may help. These personal vehicles can enable you to do errands and participate in social outings.

The scooter solution

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Mobility scooters come in three- or four-wheel options, powered by a rechargeable battery. They have a padded seat and offer storage elements, armrests, a steering column, and headlamps.

“These scooters come in a wide range of models and sizes, from foldable travel scooters that can be disassembled and put in the trunk of a car to heavy-duty scooters that are sturdy enough to carry 500 pounds and travel up to 15 miles per hour,” said Nicole Gregory at Forbes.com.

To find the solution that works best for your needs, consider first how you or your loved one will be using the scooter.

  • Do you plan to transport the scooter from place to place or will it strictly be used at home? This would affect the size, weight, and portability of the vehicle as well as accessories, such as baskets. It would also affect the importance of battery life.
  • Do you plan to use it outdoors? If so, will you be using it on a smooth sidewalk or on rugged terrain, like a park or other uneven surfaces?

The answers to these questions will help answer specific questions about the best scooter for your purposes.

  • Should you get a three-wheeled or four-wheeled scooter? Three-wheel mobility scooters typically have more legroom and a tighter turning radius than a four-wheeler and are lighter and more compact. On the other hand, four-wheelers are more stable and handle rough outdoor terrain better. https://www.mobilitypluscolorado.com/blog/3-wheel-vs-4-wheel-mobility-scooter
  • What is the scooter’s weight limit? In determining the optimal weight limit for your needs, consider cargo, such as groceries, as well as the rider.
  • How fast will it go?
  • Is it easy to maneuver? What’s the turning radius?
  • Does the scooter come with a warranty? If so, how long and what is covered?
  • Is the scooter strong enough to go up inclines, such as outdoor sidewalks and ramps?
  • How far and/or long will the battery last between charges?

Related: Top considerations in getting a mobility scooter – or not

Scooter prices

Cost, of course, is a large part of the decision.

If the cost seems out of reach for you, you will want to find out whether or not Medicare will defray the cost for you under Durable Medical Equipment (DME). This requires a doctor willing to write a prescription for the device for a person who has a documented medical condition for its use. In approved cases, Medicare usually covers about 80% of the cost. Medicare Supplemental Insurance may cover some or all of the additional cost. Co-pays and deductibles may apply.

“Mobility scooters can be expensive when purchased new, ranging anywhere from $800 to $6,000,” said Gregory. “But the price tag doesn’t have to deter you from getting one for yourself or an aging family member. There are plenty of more affordable used models for sale.”

Inexpensive used scooters can be found on places like ebay, craigslist, or in advertising media like the Penny Saver, Gregory said. One problem purchasing used, however, is there is no way of knowing if the seller is being honest about the age or prior usage of the device.

Another choice is to purchase a used model from a dealership. This will probably cost more, but the customer can work with knowledgeable salespeople and maybe get some kind of warranty. Dealerships can also tell you how long you will be able to get replacement parts for a particular scooter model.

Be sure to check with the dealer about battery lifetime and tire performance/durability. Also look for cosmetic defects and the general condition of the scooter (wear and tear). Ask about maintenance records or unexpired warranties that an individual seller or dealer can give you at the time of purchase.

Anyone of any age should be encouraged to get as much physical activity as possible. But when mobility is truly an issue, a scooter can provide the ticket to an improved quality of life.

Donna Brody

Donna Brody is a former community college English instructor who retired to the Outer Banks of North Carolina. She enjoys freelance writing and has self published three romance novels. Besides writing and traveling with her husband, she keeps busy visiting her seven grandchildren.

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