Electric Mobility Scooters Will Move You

For those who have limited mobility due to either old age or paralysis due to injury, electric mobility scooters are a dream come true. Years ago, people only had one choice in assisted mobility—the manual wheelchair. Awkward and sometimes difficult to maneuver, manufacturers finally wised up and created alternative methods of mobility. First, there was the powered wheelchair, and eventually comfortable electric scooters made the scene.

An electric mobility scooter is loosely similar to a wheelchair, but motorized. Convenient, comfortable, and quick, electric mobility scooters allow the rider the freedom and speed to go wherever he or she wishes, without the stigma of the “old-age wheelchair.”

Considerations
You should be aware of certain considerations when choosing which electric mobility scooter is for you. Keep in mind that electric mobility scooters are made for individuals with physical disabilities or health issues that make their ability to walk limited. In order for a mobility scooter to be useful, the rider has to—

• be able to sit upright for extended periods of time. Scooters are made for sitting. If the person has trouble sitting up, then a scoter will be uncomfortable and problematic.

• have decent eyesight. The individual in the electric mobility scooter is essentially a driver. He or she is controlling the assistive device. So, if their eyesight is poor, they could be dangerous for others outside, as well as the “driver.”

• have decent upper arm strength. Although not pushing the wheels of a manual wheelchair, the rider still needs upper arm strength to manage the buttons and steering options of the scooter.

• be of sound mind. The rider must be able to know what is going on around him or her in order to control the scooter.

Other things to consider when choosing electric mobility scooters are what your daily needs are. Will you be using the scooter only indoors? Do you want to run errands on the scooter? Different scooters are made for different reasons. In addition, you also have to consider your height and weight when choosing a scooter, as well. Talk to your doctor or rehabilitation specialist. They can help you pick out the appropriate electric scooter for your lifestyle.

Who Makes Electric Mobility Scooters?
Some well-known manufactures of electric mobility scooters include:
• Rascal
• Pride Mobility
• Golden Technologies
• Hoveround
• Zip'r Mobility

How Can I Afford an Electric Mobiliy Scooter?
High-qualtiy electirc mobility scooters can be expensive, starting from $500. However, you may qualify for assitance from your medical insurance and Medicare. Depending on your insurance, your provider may pay a portion of a scooter with a doctor’s note and justification. If you have any questions, contact your health provider or ABLEDATA, (Informed Consumer’s Guide on Funding Assitive Technology) at http://www.abledata.com. They will be able to offer you unbiased inofrmation about assitive technology. They will also help you locate companies that can provide you with a scooter to fit your needs.

Electric Mobility Scooters cannot perform miracles, but they can help people travel better and easier without the stares that wheelchairs seems to attract. Again, speak with your physican and let them know that your are interested in getting an electric scooter. Tell them exactly how it will imporve your lifestyle. Not only do electric mobility scooters make you life easier, let’s face it, they are fun to ride!

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