8 important considerations when purchasing the best mobility scooter

Buying a scooter might seem daunting. Things can become complicated if your mother or another relative needs this equipment. A small number of insurance companies cover mobility scooters. Choosing one that suits your loved ones’ lifestyles and physical demands is vital. When selecting a mobility scooter, there are several factors to consider outside of simply the look and price.

Height

Scooters come in many sizes and types. When choosing a seat, ensure the legs don’t get in the way of the controls (and that the setting is high enough). Three-wheel mobility scooters are simpler to get in and out of. Some versions include height-adjustable seats, armrests and steering wheels.

Weight

The maximum weight a scooter can safely carry on level terrain varies. Mountains and valleys greatly impact this since they change the motor’s behaviour. Consider that some scooters can easily carry 112kg on level ground but only 80kg up a 10% slope (such as a wheelchair ramp). Carrying too much weight might damage the engine and battery. In certain cases, it may even derail the driver’s plans. Before making a purchase, confirm the supplier’s weight restriction.

Terrain

When selecting a mobility scooter, consider the driver’s usual terrain. A small, agile mobility vehicle is usually suitable for inside use. Thus, corridors and aisleways are readily accessible, as are elevators. Outdoor mobility scooters are often heavier and bulkier; however, they can manage tiny puddles and rough roadways.

Battery

Battery life is critical. You don’t want your loved one to be unable to move to a safe area. Keeping it charged can extend the battery’s life (and improve your overall user experience). If in doubt, choose a device with longer battery life than your relative anticipates using.

Portability

Many foldable and portable scooters can be transported in a vehicle. They’re easily disassembled and come with a travel bag. Have you ever wondered how to transport a mobility scooter? Because portable scooters are smaller than traditional scooters, they may not suit taller people, carry less weight, or have shorter battery life. Roll-up doors and 4-tie-down cabs can securely transport bigger scooters; if the scooter is transported often, ask the provider to install anchor points.

The future

If your loved one requires a mobility scooter, you want to optimize its utilization. To do so, you must consider both present and future demands. Their medical condition and lifestyle will change over 5 or 10 years, so plan accordingly. Also, ask these questions:

• Is your weight likely to change?
• You will likely have to move big things like oxygen tanks.
• When will you be able to move freely and see again? Will your vision and cognitive abilities get worse?
• Do you want to move?
• Do you want to change your lifestyle, such as returning to school, getting a new job or retiring?
• When you go on vacation, will you bring your scooter with you?

Maintenance

You must understand its operation to assemble, store, and repair the scooter. Ask plenty of questions and acquire a scooter with a User’s Manual. Also, you may notice changes in your loved person’s condition. Keep the scooter in mind for when circumstances change.

Test drive

Before buying a mobility scooter, request a test drive. Take your loved ones for a test drive to ensure they’re comfortable with their new mode of transportation. Take advantage of this opportunity to see how it feels on your body before purchasing.

Dubai Mobility sells and rents mobility scooters, power chairs, wheelchairs, profile community beds, pressure care items and other medical equipment across the UAE. Visit us online or call us at +971 4 3709893.