The perfect scooter is like a new pair of legs
FEW of us really acknowledge just how precious our mobility is until we lose it. But anything from osteoarthritis to painful feet can make it harder to walk, affecting quality of life.
It’s no fun being stuck at home and having to rely on others to take us out when they can spare the time.
If getting about is becoming a problem, a mobility scooter could restore independence, almost like having a new pair of legs.
It can be a way to reach the shops, take a country ramble, roll up at the village cricket match or the beach, attend regular activities or just pop out to see friends who live nearby.
It can even be used through the winter. Wrap up, wear high-visibility clothing, make sure the lights are working and the tyre tread is good and avoid steep hills when conditions are icy.
Some scooters have the option of a canopy, which will shelter you while out and about.
There are various types from lightweight folding models, to mid-range scooters that give more stability, and more rugged models that can take to the road and travel at up to 8mph.
These must have lights and indicators and be registered with the DVLA if used on the road, but can also go on the pavement if set back to 4mph.
When considering mobility scooter it pays to do your research — as it is all about getting the right model for you.
Buy one that isn’t stable or comfortable enough or won’t go where you want it to, and the chances are you won’t use it.
Buyers need to think about where they plan to go, as a scooter may need extra power if there are kerbs or hills to navigate. Will it fit through doors? And what about getting on and off? A swivel seat might help.
Then there’s whether it will fit in a car boot. Lightweight versions may fold down as one item, while others can be disassembled into four sections, including seat and battery. You’ll need to test whether it’s possible to lift it into the boot without strain, as you may need a ramp.
Just what suits best can be a matter of trial and error. But thankfully, new legislation now gives customers the right to a seven-day trial after which they can cancel if it’s not right for them.
A sensible way to buy a suitable mobility scooter is to contact a reputable company that will assess your needs on the phone, then come out with a van laden with models selected from their large stock to try.