We’ve come a long way from wooden crutches and wheelchairs with heavy-duty wheels you had to push to move from point A to point B. We agree the classic wheelchair may be beneficial for building upper-body strength, but it’s not conducive to a life of comfort.
It’s time to get a mobility scooter or electric wheelchair that will get you further than point B. These scooters are fully equipped with state of the art features that enhance speed, convenience, reliability and luxury. With the wide selection of cheap mobility scooters for sale, it should be a breeze to find one tailored for you. Below we’ll take a look at things to consider for your new mobility chair.
Considering a Mobility Scooter
Deciding whether you require a mobility scooter is ultimately a personal/family decision. Suppose you’re someone who enjoys doing things for yourself; if you like to take walks, get in your car and buy your groceries but are restrained by old-age and health issues, this motorized chair will work for you.
The scooter is more simple to navigate than a vehicle and is entirely portable so that you can take it along on holidays.
The Scooter’s Operation
As much as it’s a family decision, you’ll also have to get in touch with your occupational therapist. The scooter is designed for those who find driving an actual car challenging; however, they still need the cognizance and assurance to operate the motorized chair.
A visit to the OT might aide you in determining whether you can:
- Function the hand control
- React sufficiently in erratic situations
- Move your head to check for pedestrians and traffic
- Concentrate throughout your trip
- Maintain your balance on uneven ground
The Type of Scooter Your Require
For a decision of this magnitude, it’s obvious you’d want something that provides you with quality as well as convenience. Now you can get all of that, but at such an affordable rate that will have you ready to purchase two.
A range of mobility scooters makes it painless to find one that suits your needs and budget. Naturally, with the vast collection of scooters available, it can become tricky to choose one. That’s why you should be precise about your requirements.
Do you need a modest scooter to move around the house and supermarkets? Do you need it to get you to the local shops or to visit a neighbouring friend? Or do you require something more heavy-duty, an alternative to a car that can transport you to appointments outside your suburb?
Whatever you decide, there are various scooters you can choose from that will enhance your mobility without hurting your pocket.
Using it and Staying Safe
The first time you use your scooter, you should park on smooth, flat terrain. The area is free of traffic and other obstructions. Ensure that you understand how all controls work, and practise how to start, stop and move around.
Consider storage space, insurance, and to keep it fully charged at all times. When charging, ensure the scooter is set to OFF, and plug the charger into the port. The red/orange light means the scooter is charging, and the green light means it’s fully charged. The average charging time is 8-10 hours, so we suggest charging it overnight.
You’ll need to have adequate eyesight and hearing if you want to operate a mobility scooter so that you can always keep an eye out for traffic and pedestrians. Use your lights if you have them, and do not overload your scooter. Ensure your vision is unobstructed and plan your trips for familiar routes.
To Sum it Up
Purchasing a mobility scooter would be a favourable addition to anyone from the elderly to the weary or disabled. The scooter will afford you the freedom you desire to perform ordinary activities you no longer can. All you have to do is pick the one most suited to your needs.