Medical Mobility Scooters
Motor or electric scooters are very similar to medical mobility scooters in how they work and are made. Mobility scooters also can include extra features that make them operate similar to a power wheelchair also, so they are suitable for people who may need assistance occasionally, despite having strong arms and good balance.
Individuals who are challenged by walking normally, or the elderly, can benefit from the use of a mobility scooter, which can be both convenient and enjoyable. Those who use mobility scooters can generally move about on their own, but might have trouble across longer distances up on an incline.
In 1968, Alan Thieme built the prototypical mobility scooter in Bridgeport, MI. Thieme had someone in his family who suffered from multiple sclerosis, so to help them get a portion of their mobility back, he created a scooter with front wheel drive.
The essential parts of modern mobility scooters are a seat atop a pair of rear wheels, and a space to place one’s feet at the front, which doubles as a support for the seat and the power source of the scooter. Also included are handlebars atop a steering column, and of course, front wheels. Most mobility scooters are now electric, though there are also those which use gasoline. The more common mobility scooters operate electrically, using one battery or two batteries, housed in the scooter. If you anticipate traversing many slopes and hills, a pair of betteries will work better as they’ll give more power to your scooter. You can charge your scooter’s batteries by plugging them into a charger, operating from a standard power outlet.
The scooter’s steering column, which is at the center of the front portion of the device, is called the ’tiller’. This uses a switch, a thumb paddle or finger controls to control forward and reverse movement, as well as speed. You can also choose from mobility scooters that have front or rear wheel drive. Generally, mobility scooter that use front wheel drive are best for riders under 250 pounds, and are also better to use indoors, as they’re typically smaller than the alternative. Mobility scooters that feature rear wheel drive are good for both outdoor and indoor use, and best for people who weigh up to 350 pounds. Rear wheel drive scooters also come in a ‘heavy duty’ variety, which are designed for passengers who weigh up to 500 pounds – which typical mobility scooters cannot handle.
You cannot coast using a mobility scooter, as they are built with automatic braking. All movements are controlled by the controls operated by your hands. You can slowly increase or decrease your rate of travel by manipulating these controls. Your mobility scooter can also be adjusted to have a maximum speed, also.
Mobility scooters are generally simple to control and use, providing that your upper body operates normally. Mobility scooters can also be taken apart for easy travel to events with friends or family, where they can be reassembled and used once again. Individuals who are disabled or who suffer from systemic conditions but can generally move around slightly, sit up, and have control over the steering column of a mobility scooter, will enjoy the freedom and independence that a mobility scooter can give them.
photo credit: MonkeySimon