How to know when it’s time to get your freedom back!
Everyone knows how devastating it can be when you’re stuck at home, ill, unable to move with just newspapers and the TV to keep you company. But limited mobility should not get in the way of you or a loved one, enjoying an exciting and fulfilling life!
The purchase of the right mobility scooter lets you regain your independence and enjoy your life without the limitations imposed by reduced mobility.
Making the decision to invest in an electric mobility scooter or electric wheelchair/powerchair can be daunting. Therefore, it is important ask yourself the following questions: Do I have problems with mobility? Am I feeling a loss of freedom and independence because of my mobility problems?
Having a mobility aid, whether it is an electric scooter or an electric powerchair, will give you the freedom to enjoy your life once again. You will be re-gifted with the independence to interact with the outside world. Being more active will greatly improve your mental outlook on life.
Benefits of owning a mobility scooter
Increase Accessibility
Modern mobility scooters fit in brilliantly with the ever-changing ways in which people socialise.
With shopping centres and public spaces constantly improving accessibility, it is becoming much, much easier for mobility scooter users to access these sorts of places. Another benefit is that portable mobility scooters can usually be taken on public transport. Head to www.transportnsw.info for further information.
Injury Prevention
Whether you’re older or just don’t have the physical strength, falls that cause injury become a real risk. With the aid of a mobility scooter, chances of fall-related injuries are decreased significantly.
There are several other reasons to why you or a loved one may need a mobility scooter, such as recovering from surgery. Owning a mobility scooter limits the physical exertion needed to move around. This freedom can allow for a much more comfortable healing process.
Home trials & demonstrations
Investing your time and money into a product feels much more satisfying when it comes from a supplier who has years of experience in helping those with limited mobility.
Some companies may offer home demonstrations and trials on their mobility scooters. There are also the options of ‘rent to own’ contract, which could also help take out the guess work.
Simple to Operate
The majority of mobility scooters are incredibly simple to manoeuvre and operate, wherever you wish to use them.
You can recharge the batteries from the comfort of your own home. Be sure to read the manufacturers guide, or ask about the correct way to charge your mobility scooter, as overcharging will cause a gradual decrease in power.
Increased Independence
Mobility scooters are ideal for those who tire easily. It is essentially an electric vehicle that allows you to get out and about without the use of an assistant or carer.
Increased independence is inevitable, but mobility scooters have more than physical benefits. Psychological benefits from being able to leave the house when it suits you, and peace of mind for both you and your loved ones, make owning a high-quality mobility scooter the perfect long-term investment.
Road safety
When using your mobility scooter always follow the same road rules that apply to pedestrians. Ride on the footpath, preferably at walking speed, which is 2-3 kilometres per hour. You should also cross the road at safe places, such as traffic lights with pedestrian signals and at pedestrian crossings.
Mobility scooters must not travel at more than 10 kilometres per hour. You do not need a NSW driver licence or third party insurance to operate a mobility scooter.
Electric Wheelchair Or Mobility Scooter – What’s Right For You?
While there are essential differences between both types of mobility aids, what is ultimately right for you comes down to your needs and personal preferences. We’ve outlined just a few of the factors you might want to consider before deciding on an electric wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Mobility scooter or electric wheelchair
Mobility scooters are designed for people who may be fairly mobile around the home, but who find it difficult to walk long distances. There are a wide range of scooters available, from smaller models that can fit into the boot of a car, through to heavy duty mobility scooters that are able to navigate steep hills and travel long distances on a single charge.
Electric wheelchairs are similar in many ways in that they are designed to assist people who have difficulty walking. However, their smaller turning circle means they are more suited for use indoors.
And if you’re using it at home, chances are you’ll spend a great deal of time on your mobility aid. Electric wheelchairs offer more seating options for comfort, including by reclining the backrest and raising or lowering the foot rest.
Operation and maneuverability
Electric wheelchairs are operated using a joystick mounted on the armrest, requiring less upper body mobility to control. Mobility scooters are operated using a tiller handle and will require both hands to steer and control.
Electric wheelchairs have a smaller turning circle than mobility scooters. While there are small scooters with a tighter turning circle designed for use indoors, you will require more space between furniture to maneuver indoors.
Speed and distance
Electric wheelchairs are limited to a maximum speed of 6km/h and will travel up to 30km on a single charge. This can be affected by things such as the terrain and the weight of the user.
If distance is a concern, a mobility scooter may be a preferable option. A robust mobility scooter can travel at speeds of up to 10km/h and distances of up to 50km on a single charge. Again, while the maximum speed and distance depends on terrain, mobility scooters are designed to travel long distances outdoors.
While electric wheelchairs can be used outdoors, they are better suited to flat, even terrain and slight slopes such as access ramps. If you need to navigate difficult terrain and hills, a mobility scooter will give you the required power and stability.
Acceptance
While the best mobility device for you is the one that provides the optimum level of independence and support, there can be a perception that some devices – and therefore users – are more ‘legitimate’ than others. While unfortunate, generally the public may be more accommodating of someone in a wheelchair than in an electric scooter.
On the other hand, a mobility scooter may provide less stigma for someone who doesn’t want to be seen as a ‘wheelchair user’. There are a range of models available, from sleek, foldable travel mobility scooters to scooters that resemble motorcycles.
