| If age, illness or infirmity is causing you mobility | | | | of body support, for the head or legs for example. |
| problems, you have a number of possible solutions. | | | | Now let's look at the types of mobility scooters |
| The traditional one is the wheelchair. However the | | | | available. |
| mobility scooter can be a more attractive option. | | | | Mobility scooters are in two main classes. Class 2 |
| Here's a look at mobility scooters so you can decide if | | | | scooters are for pavement use only and have a |
| it's the right device for you. | | | | maximum speed of 4 mph. Class 3 scooters can |
| Firstly, what exactly is a mobility scooter? It's an aid to | | | | travel on the road and have a maximum speed of 8 |
| mobility that functions like a wheelchair but has a | | | | mph. To travel on the pavement, a Class 3 scooter |
| configuration like a motor scooter. It’s also known | | | | needs to be fitted with a restrictor switch that limits the |
| as a power-operated scooter or an electric scooter. | | | | speed to 4 mph. They must also have front and rear |
| Mobility scooters range from small folding travel | | | | lights, traffic indicators, rear view mirrors and a horn. |
| scooters to heavy-duty items. | | | | The choice of mobility scooter or wheelchair should |
| Mobility scooters consist of a seat over two rear | | | | depend on a number of factors but fundamentally, if |
| wheels. There's a flat area to rest the feet and | | | | you have to remain in your mobility device for most of |
| handlebars in front. Some have swivelling seats to | | | | the day, a wheelchair will be more comfortable. On the |
| make access easier. Mobility scooters are controlled | | | | other hand, scooters are more attractive in |
| by tillers which offer forward and reverse movement | | | | appearance. |
| and speed controls. They are powered by | | | | If you've decided to invest in a mobility scooter, here |
| rechargeable batteries | | | | are some tips. Firstly, always buy one with a |
| So are they for you? Mobility scooters are similar to | | | | recognised brand name. These include Pride Mobility |
| wheelchairs but are generally lighter and cheaper. | | | | Products, Shoprider Mobility Scooters, and Sunrise |
| Generally, mobility scooters are best for people with | | | | Medical. All these companies have head offices in the |
| milder mobility problems, perhaps related to age. They | | | | UK and dealers all around the country. This is useful for |
| are especially helpful for users suffering from | | | | maintenance and spare parts. |
| whole-body disabling conditions such as heart | | | | Next, always try and match your size and weight |
| conditions or arthritis. Users just need to be able to sit | | | | before you buy. In fact, try a number of scooters until |
| erect without torso support. A scooter is also suitable | | | | you find one that feels comfortable for such factors |
| for persons without the stamina or arm/shoulder | | | | as legroom. You can ask the sales person to make |
| flexibility needed for a manual wheelchair. | | | | various adjustments to the tiller or the seat for you. |
| Other advantages of mobility scooters include greater | | | | Take on for a spin and see if you're comfortable with |
| manoeuvrability compared to wheelchairs. This makes | | | | the stability and the way it feels going over various |
| it possible to make tighter turns and navigate more | | | | surfaces. |
| types of terrain. The batteries, too, last longer than | | | | Your best option is to find a firm with a track record in |
| those in wheelchairs. | | | | providing mobility scooters and mobility scooters |
| On the downside, the length of mobility scooters | | | | products. Such a firm has the experience and |
| restricts their turning radius and the low ground | | | | knowledge to give you the critical advice you need |
| clearance can make navigation of curbs difficult. They | | | | when buying the right scooter. |
| are also unsuitable for some people due to their lack | | | | |