Choosing a Mobility Scooter

Choosing an electric scooter to support your mobility needs or those of an aging loved one is important and should be an educated buying decision. Shopping for one is not a super easy task since electric scooters come in a wide range of sizes and styles. Each model has various features and works differently.

Scooter Features

 A mobility scooter is a motorized chair on wheels with a steering wheel or handle. Scooters are basic or high-powered, run on batteries and require regular charging. There four types of mobility scooters:

1. Three-wheel:Three-wheel mobility scooters are ideal for indoor use. They are smaller and lighter than the four-wheel mobility scooters. Their outdoor use is limited.
2. Four-wheel:Four-wheel mobility scooters have more stability and are ideal for outdoor use.
3. Travel:Travel scooters are lightweight and are foldable for transportation in the trunk of a car.
4. Heavy Duty:Heavy duty mobility scooters are ideal for heavier people. They can support 500lbs. or more.

Tips for Purchasing Your Scooter

Buying an electric scooter for yourself or someone may be a fairly large purchase. However, there are many available that will fit your budget while still meeting your mobility needs. The following tips on what to consider will help you make an informed purchase:

1. Can the mobility scooter be used for primarily indoors, outdoors or both? When it comes to choosing a mobility scooter, know what model and class you will need. Class 2 scooters are for indoor, sidewalk and pedestrian use. Class 3 scooters are for outdoor and road use.
2. How much do you plan on spending on your mobility scooter? Scooter prices vary for basic to high-end models. Durability, features and quality also affect the price.
3. Have you found any ratings and reviews for mobility scooters? It’s a great idea to check out feedback from other people to see if you’re buying a good scooter.
4. What safety features, accessories and kind of warranty come standard with the scooter purchase? Make sure you’re getting your money’s worth on the scooter you purchase and what is included in your warranty.
5. Is the scooter comfortable to sit in, and can it accommodate your weight? Scooters come in different seat styles, and back support varies. Consider your weight and overall health, so you can know whether what type to buy and if an adjustable model is needed.
6. 6.  Are you or someone you know able to transport your scooter if you intend on using it outside the home? You or someone you know will need enough space in the vehicle to store the scooter and have enough strength to put it in and out as you go to places.
7. What is the battery range? Some batteries allow up to eight miles of use, while others go as far as 30 miles.

A mobility impairment can be stressful, but a mobility scooter offers the user a sense of independence, which can boost confidence. Carmichael’s offers a complete line of high quality modern electric mobility scooters including other healthcare home equipment and supplies. Please contact a Carmichael’s representative to discuss any electric mobility scooter needs or to request additional information.