When the time comes to face up to the reality of a mobility problem, it can be extremely difficult and distressing to say the least. It’s really not as if anyone at any time in their life actively wishes they could become dependent on wheelchairs or mobility scooters, so when and where this scenario plays out for real, it can be heartbreaking and life-affecting in a very big way. However, there’s really no denying that those of us living in the 21st century are very much blessed when it comes to the various mobility aids and gadgets on the market, which are now so abundant that they suit every need and budget quite flawlessly.
Quite simply, no matter what it is you need, what you plan to use it for or what kind of budget you have to spare, you’re 100% guaranteed to find the mobility aid to suit if you’re willing to look for it. So while it’s never a pleasant prospect to put your freedom and mobility in the hands of something like a scooter, it’s a million times better than giving up on your freedom and mobility for life.
Who Are Mobility Scooters Suitable For?
Which of course begs the most obvious question of all – just who could benefit from a mobility scooter? Well, the simple answer is really anyone with a mobility problem that may be getting in the way of their daily activities and trips they’d otherwise like to be making. If, for example, a disability has made it very difficult for you to go to the shops anymore, a scooter could be just the thing for you. If you’re finding yourself seeing friends and family far less frequently due to mobility problems, a scooter could remedy this.
It’s common to assume that mobility scooters exist only for those that are too sick, injured or generally disabled to walk at all, but this isn’t in fact the case. Quite to the contrary in fact, scooters are recommended for those who aren’t in need of a wheelchair to get around and may only need to use the scooter for specific journeys and duties. They can of course be of use to those with a total lack of mobility, but when and where any of life’s simple pleasures and daily journeys has started to become a chore, the right scooter could inject a good deal of enjoyment back into it.
Who Shouldn’t Choose a Mobility Scooter?
Of course, there are certain people for whom mobility scooters are not in any way recommended and therefore should not be purchased or used under any circumstances. For example, those with any kind of severe visual impairment or hearing difficulties should not use mobility scooters, as is the case with anyone suffering from perceptual awareness difficulties. In addition, a mobility scooter should not be used simply as an easier way of getting around by anyone for whom more exercise and a healthier way of living has been recommended by a doctor – remaining mobile where possible is often the most sensible way to go.
The Simple Pros and Cons
In terms of pros and cons, it’s of course safe to say that if you are in need of a mobility scooter, it’s a clean sweep for the former. Nevertheless, it’s still important to look at the subject objectively, so what are the ups and downs of buying and owning a mobility scooter:
Pros:
- Restore near full independence if suffering from mobility issues
- Despite being wholly more versatile, they can be cheaper than electric wheelchairs
- You don’t need a driving license and they are very easy to operate
- Portable models are excellent for occasional use and taking on longer trips
- Most places can now be accessed by way of mobility scooters, including public transport
- When used after an accident or injury, a scooter can help speed up the healing process by limiting physical exertion
Cons:
- Upper-end models can still be rather on the expensive side
- It is possible to become dependent on a scooter even if you don’t actually need to use one full-time
- You must remember to charge the scooter on a daily basis or risk not being able to use it.
The best advice is always to get in touch with your nearest mobility centre and organise a consultation. Getting a grip on the ins and outs of scooter ownership first hand is a good idea before taking the plunge with a purchase, so speak to a reputable expert prior to making your final decision.