If you want to make the most of using a mobility scooter, there are several factors to consider about your needs and lifestyles that should influence your choice. There are several sizes and models available, so we have listed a few of the things to think about before making your decision.
Comfort for Long Trips
Think about how comfortable the seat is on the scooter if you are planning on using it for long trips or extended periods. You will need a seat that is comfortable, padded and also offers you support for your back.
Getting On and Off
If you have difficulty with your legs or are of a larger size, you need a mobility scooter that has plenty of room that will allow you to easily get on and off. Some models have seats that swivel around that can help, but try getting on and off with different models before deciding.
Transporting in a Car
Smaller scooters can be dismantled into parts or folded so you can transport it in a car, and it is best to see if you can fit it in your car boot, or the car of someone who regularly travels with you before making a final decision.
Easy to Recharge
Mobility scooters are often battery powered, and will need to be recharged often whenever you are not using it. We can guide you through the process of recharging it so you can easily do it yourself at home. If you will be storing it outside, we can also offer solutions for recharging it.
Extra Power
Find out from the provider of the mobility scooter if you will need it to be extra powered, especially if you live in a hilly area or often travel over rough ground. If you are going up steep hills, with bags of shopping in tow, extra power is a must.
Surfaces
You need to think about the types of surfaces you will be using the mobility scooter on, as some scooters have solid tyres and others are air-filled. Solid tyres last longer but offer less suspension, so if you find you travel over rough, bumpy terrain, air-filled tyres on an all-terrain mobility scooter will be more suitable.
Space
Think about where you will be using your scooter such as in shops, at home or around the local town. Try manoeuvring the mobility scooter around the show room, and see how much space is needed in various models.
Ease of Control
When it comes to using your mobility scooter, you want one that you are comfortable using and in control of. Check the steering and controls are in easy reach and easy to function, especially if you have difficulty using your hands, such as arthritis.
