5 Things to Consider Before Buying a Mobility Scooter

mobility scooter

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you use them to make a purchase, we will earn a commission. We link to these companies and their products because of their quality and not because of the commission. The decision is yours, and whether or not you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

Buying a Mobility Scooter: What Seniors Need to Know

Getting around safely is a top concern for most seniors. You want to do and see everything you were able to in your younger years without limited mobility holding you back. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to.

An electric mobility scooter will help you get where you need to go quickly and safely.* Even simple errands like getting groceries, going to the mall and more will be enjoyable again with the right scooter!

But these days, mobility scooters come with as many bells and whistles as a new Mercedes. For many seniors, knowing what features they do and don’t need is a dizzying prospect. 

Here are a few features to consider before making your final decision.

Range

Nearly all mobility scooters run on rechargeable electric batteries that have to be plugged in at the end of each use. On the low end, a model will get you six miles on a single charge. But there are high-end models that can travel up to 30 miles on a single charge.

Safety

No matter how you plan on using your scooter, you want a model with anti-tip wheels to prevent the scooter (and you) from falling over. Simple, easy-to-use steering and brakes are also important safety considerations.

Comfort

The goal of an electric mobility scooter is comfort, right? So make sure the model you choose has a comfortable seat that accommodates your current physical limitations. You may find you prefer extra padding, adjustable armrests or adjustable seatbacks. Extra-wide seats are available, as well. And, of course, the convenience of a built-in basket is always desirable!*

Weight limit

Most models have a weight limit of 250 pounds, although some high-end models can safely handle up to 500 pounds. If you need a foldable scooter, the weight limit will be on the lower end. Be sure to choose a model well within your weight range.

Speed

For the most part, scooters can go 4 mph when used indoors or on the sidewalk. Speed is an important consideration, but what you choose depends on where you’ll be using your electric mobility scooter.

Where will I use my electric mobility scooter?

Portable mobility scooters for seniors are made to withstand a wide variety of terrains. There are models rugged enough to take you through national parks and models only suited for indoor or light sidewalk use.

Think about the places you go or want to go. Are you hoping to explore the great outdoors with your electric mobility scooter or simply get around at your local shopping mall? If you want to go outdoors in your scooter, you need a sturdy model. But if you want your scooter for indoor or light sidewalk use only, a light-duty 3-wheel mobility scooter should be just fine.

How will I transport my mobility scooter?

The need to transport your electric mobility scooter depends on how you’re planning to use it. Most likely you’ll want to use your electric scooter when you’re out and about, so do look for something portable. In these cases, ultra-lightweight folding mobility scooters are a great choice, because they easily fit in the trunk of a car. But be aware, even though they’re called “ultra-lightweight,” many foldable mobility scooters can be as heavy as 80 pounds. So do think about whether or not you’ll need assistance removing your mobility scooter from your car.

How much should I spend on a mobility scooter? 

Mobility scooters are a big investment. You can reasonably expect to spend several hundred up to several thousand dollars depending on the features you need. When you’re ready to buy a mobility scooter, check out Senior.com.

They offer a wide range of more than 100 electric mobility scooters for seniors, including a great lightweight scooter that costs around $699* all the way up to higher-end models that cost around a thousand dollars.

Are mobility scooters covered by insurance?

Yes! Mobility scooters are often covered in part by insurance. Check your coverage to find out if you qualify for a reduced-cost mobility scooter.

If you aren’t sure if your plan includes electric mobility scooter coverage, or you want to switch to a plan offering scooter coverage, consult with an insurance professional at My Senior Health Plan today.

 

*Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you use them to make a purchase, we will earn a commission. We link to these companies and their products because of their quality and not because of the commission. The decision is yours, and whether or not you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

 

image credit: shutterstock/sirtravelalot

Pete Blasi