Is a Mobility Scooter right for you?
Mobility scooters are battery-operated personal vehicles designed for people who have difficulty walking or standing for long periods of time. They are commonly used by seniors or people with disabilities to help them maintain their independence and improve their mobility. This innovation has helped people keep their independence since 1968! So we will go into detail about the benefits of using a mobility scooter and when people would commonly need to use a mobility scooter.
The NHS generally avoids providing mobility scooters, instead, they will provide you with a wheelchair if you need it. That leaves the option of buying/renting a scooter. These tend to range in price between £500 - £5,000 to purchase and rent from £15 - £50 per week depending on the model and the function. So do have a look around before committing to purchasing a mobility scooter. Please also see the NHS advice on selecting a scooter.
Here are some factors to consider before purchasing/renting a mobility scooter:
-
Medical Need
A person can qualify for a mobility scooter if they have a medical need. Medical need is defined as a physical or mental health condition that impacts mobility. Examples include arthritis, paralysis, respiratory disorders, heart conditions, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and autism. This is not an extensive list, please refer to your medical practitioner for more information.
Be unable, or have considerable difficulty, using public transport or a car, even with adaptations or assistance
-
Age
In the UK, individuals must be at least 14 years old to operate a mobility scooter on the road, but age is not always a determining factor and many people of all ages can qualify for a mobility scooter based on medical need.
-
Can you safely use the scooter?
When considering using a mobility scooter, safety should be a top priority. In order to ensure safety, it is important to have the physical and mental ability necessary to operate the scooter safely. Additionally, it is important to have the skills to get on and off the scooter safely. This means being able to balance and shift your weight correctly, as well as having the dexterity to operate the controls.
Finally, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with using a mobility scooter. For example, there is a risk of tipping over if the scooter is not used properly or if the terrain is uneven. Additionally, there is a risk of colliding with other objects or people if the scooter is not operated safely. Take the time to consider these risks and take steps to mitigate them, it is possible to enjoy the benefits of using a mobility scooter while minimizing the potential risks.
-
Practicality
It is important to consider the environment where the mobility scooter will be used. For example, will it be used indoors or outdoors? Will the terrain be flat or hilly? How far do you intend to travel on the mobility scooter?
These factors can impact safety and should be taken into account when deciding whether a mobility scooter is a right choice for you. Additionally, it may be necessary to make modifications to the home or other areas where the mobility scooter will be used in order to ensure safety and accessibility.
When are Mobility Scooters Used?
There are several other situations where mobility scooters can be beneficial, such as:
1. Outdoor Activities
Mobility scooters are suitable for outdoor activities such as shopping, visiting parks, and attending events. They are designed to handle uneven terrain, and steep hills, and can travel long distances without needing to be recharged. Moreover, they also provide users with a sense of freedom and adventure, allowing them to explore new places and enjoy the outdoors.
2. Indoor Use
Mobility scooters are also suitable for indoor use, particularly in large buildings such as shopping malls or airports. They can help people with disabilities or seniors move around without getting tired or experiencing discomfort. Additionally, they can make it easier for users to access different areas of the building, such as elevators or restrooms, without relying on others for assistance.
3. Medical Conditions
Mobility scooters are used by people with medical conditions that affect their mobility, such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson's disease. These conditions may limit their ability to walk or stand for long periods, making mobility scooters a practical solution. Furthermore, mobility scooters can also help users to manage their medical conditions, by allowing them to conserve their energy and avoid overexertion while still maintaining their independence.
4. Temporary Injuries
Mobility scooters can also be used by people with temporary injuries such as a broken leg or foot. They can help them move around without putting weight on the injured limb, allowing them to maintain their independence and mobility. Moreover, mobility scooters can also speed up the healing process by reducing the amount of stress on the injured area.
The Benefits of Using Mobility Scooters
Mobility scooters offer several benefits, including:
1. Improved Mobility
Mobility scooters provide people with disabilities or seniors with improved mobility, allowing them to move around freely and independently outside the house. This will allow people to be able to keep up with their daily lives and chores such as going to the shops or seeing friends, attending social events, or travelling long distances without experiencing discomfort or fatigue. Additionally, they can also save users time and energy, by allowing them to complete tasks more efficiently.
2. Safety
Mobility scooters over the years have been designed with additional safety features to ensure safe travelling and to keep the user confident in their mobility. Many features can include but are not limited to anti-tip wheels, headlights, and tail lights making them safe to use indoors and outdoors.
3. Cost-Effective
Mobility scooters are an affordable alternative to other mobility aids such as wheelchairs or electric lift chairs. They require less maintenance and have lower operating costs, making them a cost-effective solution for people with mobility issues. Furthermore, they can also help users to save money on transportation costs, by reducing their reliance on taxis or other forms of public transportation.
4. Independence
Be in charge of where you want to go and when you want to go. This is the most important benefit for you to consider as you will be able to keep up with your friends and family for any outings like shopping or a visit to the park.