There are currently millions of Americans dealing with mobility issues. Fortunately, mobility issues no longer mean that you must give up your independence and move to an assisted living home. According to AARP and the National Conference of State Legislatures, about 90% of people over the age of 65 want to live in their home as long as they can. By choosing the right wheelchair or mobility scooter, you can do just that. Look for the following features and designs when shopping for a mobility scooter.
The size and comfort of the scooter
You are going to be spending many hours on this mobility scooter. You want it to be large enough that you don?t feel crowded. You also want it to be comfortable enough to sit for many hours. Never purchase a mobility scooter without first getting a feel for it. Sit in it for a few minutes. Wheel it around the store for a few strolls. Take note of the features that you like and the ones that you do not. If you feel uncomfortable in the first couple of minutes in the mobility scooter, it is likely not the one for you.
The safety features of the scooter
Every year, over two million senior citizens visit the emergency room for injuries caused by a fall. It is important to choose a mobility scooter or wheelchair that contains all of your needed safety features. Do you feel weak when standing? You might need a scooter that has a stopping feature. Do you find it difficult to stop quickly? You might need a mobility scooter with an emergency brake for stairways and down ramps. The safety features of the mobility scooter are one of the most important deciding factors as your safety is the top concern.
Manual versus automatic scooters
This feature can be a tough decision. While going with an electric wheelchair might be tempting, this is not the best choice for everyone. If you are only temporarily in a wheelchair or mobility scooter, it might be best to go with a manual one. Electric scooters do not give you the ability to utilize your muscles. Over time, you can lose muscle growth and you could actually feel weaker when it is time to move to a less assistive mobility device. However, if you intend on being in the wheelchair for a long time, an electric one might be easier for better navigation.
Vehicle accessibility options
Do you still plan on operating a vehicle? If so, you might need to choose a specific mobility scooter that is intended for vehicle use. These handicap accessible mobility scooters fit better on handicap ramps and often include door openers for easy access in and out of your vehicle. Make sure you pay attention to the included accessibility standards and check for a mobility scooter that comes with a durable design that is specifically made for vehicle usage.
Home navigation features
It will take some customization and getting use to when learning to navigate your house with a scooter or wheelchair. When choosing your new scooter, make sure you choose one that fits with your current home layout. Going with a smaller chair might be a better option for those living in smaller houses or apartments. A smaller scooter might be ideal for homes with many turns and that do not have an open layout floor plan.
Approximately 6.8 million Americans use assistive devices to aid their mobility. There are many different types of mobility devices on the market and it is important to choose the right one. Choosing the right mobility device will make navigation easier when at home and when operating a vehicle. Make sure you also look for safety features and any customized features needed to make your overall navigation easier.