Mobility scooters make it possible for anyone who has limited range of motion due to aging, illness or injury to regain some semblance of independence.
Electric-powered scooters feature comfortable seating and hand rests with easy to reach hand controls operating a steel, aluminum or fiberglass platform or drive units. These personal mobility vehicles allow the rider to enjoy fresh air outdoors, accompany friends and family members on walks, and facilitate shopping trips and errands.
Unlike cumbersome wheelchairs, personal scooters are much more lightweight and able to make maneuvers and cover territory where most wheelchairs just can’t go.
In order to select a personal mobility scooter that will be a good match for its user, there are several features to consider. Smaller units with front wheel drive are the most maneuverable but generally designed for indoor use on smooth flat surfaces. Their braking system is a manually applied parking brake controlling the rear wheel.
Rear wheel scooters can handle more rugged terrain, including curbs and uneven sidewalks for outdoor usage. With a more powerful motor than front wheel drive models, these units are heavier, can run at higher speeds but are less easy to transport. Rear wheel drive models also have a more sophisticated electronic braking system controlled by a brake release lever.
Twelve volt or 24 volt batteries supply speed and range of power, and usually last between 12 and 18 months of daily use. Ensure that a battery charger comes with the scooter. Find out how long or far the scooter will last on one battery charge to eliminate the problem of the rider being stranded during an outing thanks to a dead battery.
Pneumatic tires are the most comfortable but must be replaced when worn. Foam filled tires are maintenance free but expensive. And solid tires provide the least comfortable ride and are suitable for indoor use only.
Seating and armrests should be adjustable, with fabric or vinyl coverings for easy maintenance. If the rider will be sitting in the scooter for long periods of time, choose a model with extra padding.
The rider can control the motion and speed of the scooter using a joystick, thumb levers or loop handles located in the vicinity of the armest for easy reach. Certain scooter models come with special amenities such as shade canopies, lights for use after sundown, horns, and front or rear baskets for holding supplies.
From models that can be dissassembled for portability to heavy duty units that can carry up to 500 pounds, the current range of mobile scooters can help provide mobility and independence to a wide range of riders.