Scooters, Electric, Gas

Shopping For A Disability Scooter

There are so many different types of disability aids on the market these days that finding the ones best suited to your needs can be overwhelming.  The demand for such mobility aids as disability scooters has grown so much in the last couple of decades that manufacturers are continually introducing new products. With such an array of products to choose from, it’s important for consumers to do some research before they buy a disability scooter.

Before you start shopping, assess your needs. It’s important to be clear on how you intend to use your power scooter. Is your scooter going to be primarily used indoors or do you want to be able to use it to go shopping, visit friends or walk the dog?  Do you like to travel and if so do you want a scooter you can take with you? Would you like to be able to use your scooter on hilly or rough terrain? Does your home have handicapped access and how much room is there to maneuver a mobility aid around inside?  Your height and weight is also an important factor, as there is only one type of scooter suitable for individuals who are taller than 5’ 11’ or weigh more than 300 pounds.

Unlike motorized wheelchairs, electric scooters are controlled using a steering wheel or handlebars and are much more versatile. There are different types of scooters available that are designed to meet specific needs. A popular choice for indoor use is the three wheeled scooter. These scooters are compact and lightweight and are able to maneuver easily around furniture.  Four wheeled scooters are a better option for outdoor use as they are much more stable and are able to be driven on uneven surfaces like pavement. Some of these are heavy duty scooters, designed to be capable of off-road use as they are able to negotiate almost any kind of terrain. The heavy duty scooters are the only type that can accommodate taller or heavier individuals. And finally, there are travel scooters that come in both three and four wheeled versions. They are lightweight and can be easily disassembled to travel with you in a car or airplane.

Your doctor or a rehabilitation centre may be able to refer you to local suppliers of power scooters for the disabled. Many of these firms have equipment consultants on staff who will work with you to find the right scooter for your body type, physical limitations and use requirements.  You can even test drive a few scooters to get a feel for how they handle.  Some manufacturers produce custom made handicap scooters for people with severe disabilities. The suppliers of these specialty scooters work with input from an individual’s doctor, to design and build a product that meets the specific needs of that person.  In many cases, insurance policies will cover all or part of the costs of a scooter if you have a doctor’s prescription.

Disability scooters, just like any other consumer product, should be chosen wisely to make sure you get the one that is right for you. Whether you have decreased mobility due to a degenerative illness such as arthritis, a spinal cord injury or a neurological disease, power scooters can give you more freedom to enjoy your life.

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