A mobility scooter can transform your quality of life. If, for example, you need assistance to get to the shops or perhaps you get tired from walking a short distance, then a mobility scooter could well be a good choice for you. But, how do you make sure you are selecting the right one?
Here are some top tips on how to go about selecting the right one.
“When considering a scooter, it is important to select one that suits you and your home environment. A good supplier should offer scooters in a choice of power, size, manufacturer and colour. Prices start at £300 and go in to the thousands, so the ranges really can seem endless. Depending on size, ground clearance and turning circle, a scooter can also be suitable for indoor or outdoor use.
Where you live and how you want to use your scooter can make a huge difference to which machine you should choose. If you live near the shops on the flat and/or you want your scooter to fit in a car, a small lightweight scooter may well be suitable but its range will, generally be limited to about 10 miles at most – normally 6 to 8 in real use. If you live in a hilly area most small scooters just won’t cope with the inclines and therefore you would need something with a larger more powerful motor and batteries. As a mobility specialist, we will ensure that you have the right machine best suited for you and your needs. We always personally deliver and set up the scooter for you, making sure you are happy with its set up and familiar with the way it works. It is a worth being aware that some suppliers simply deliver scooters in the box. This means you will have to put it together, which can be difficult with some parts being very heavy.
Some other key points to check for when buying a scooter;
- Comfort and safety; when sitting on a scooter make sure you can reach and use the controls easily. It is worth noting some designs can be adjusted, for longer legs.
- Seat size; it is important to make sure that the scooter seat gives enough support – you should not be constantly adjusting to regain balance. A seat which is too narrow will cause discomfort, and too wide could make you feel unstable.
- If the scooter is for outdoor use, the added bulk of coats or jackets should always be taken into consideration, when trying it out.
- Don’t forget that you will also need to have somewhere waterproof to store the scooter – near a power source for charging the battery.
There is a lot to consider, don’t get overwhelmed. At Living Needs we provide a no obligation home demonstration service plus free safety training. All our scooters also come with a full warranty and we are only down the road. So, if you have a concern you can rest assured we are here to help”
As one of Devon’s leading providers of solutions for independent living, Living Needs are proud to provide a personal mobility solution service to all its customers across Devon. The showroom is based in Barnstaple North Devon. If you can’t make a visit to the showroom call Living Needs on 01271 374600 to make an appointment, or a free home visit.