Mobility scooters have grown popular among seniors over the past few years. The scooter allows older adults with mobility challenges the freedom to visit a mall or a park, get around the neighborhood, or accompany friends and family on trips more conveniently. Today, mobility scooters have impressive technology features and come with other perks like storage baskets, an impressive headlight reach, and padded seats. And here’s everything one must know if one plans to purchase.

Understanding the components
A mobility scooter is a three-or-four wheel vehicle with padded seats and a back section designed for people with certain types of walking disabilities who require assistance to get from one place to another. The components of these scooters generally include storage space, adjustable armrests, a steering column, and powerful headlights. The scooter also runs on a battery and is available in multiple models and sizes. Manufacturers design foldable options that can be disassembled and put in the trunk of a car. They also create rigid ones capable of transporting about 500 pounds while traveling up to 15 miles per hour.

Cost of a new mobility scooter
New mobility scooters are available for a price that can range between $600 to more than $4000. This price primarily depends on the scooter size, accessories type, and brand from which one decides to make the purchase. Insurance companies or government assistance programs are known to help seniors cover a certain amount of cost towards such mobility scooters. For example, people who use insurance to pay for the scooters may have to filter their search to options that range between $600 to $1300.

Mobility scooters options
Here are a few popular mobility scooter options to consider:

AFIKIM Afiscooter S4
The AFIKIM Afiscooter S4 is a four-wheel scooter available for about $5,800 on Electric Wheelchairs USA’s website. It comes with two years of free in-home service and free shipping. The mobility vehicle comes with an impressive range of about 28 miles and a top speed of up to 9.3 miles per hour. The scooter is also comfortable with a wide orthopedic adjustable seat, a plush headrest, and armrests. Individuals can also add the available canopy and windshield to use the vehicle in sunny and rainy atmospheres.

iLiving i3 Folding Electric Mobility Scooter
People interested in a foldable mobility scooter can go for this option. The iLiving i3 Folding Electric Mobility Scooter is manufactured from aircraft-grade aluminum, which makes it durable and lightweight. It also features the brand’s patented quick-and-easy 2-step fold-and-unfold system so seniors can transport the scooter seamlessly. One can buy the iLiving mobility scooter for about $2350 from Electric Wheelchairs USA’s online retail store.

Pride Mobility Revo 2.0
For about $1900, customers can pick up the Pride Mobility Revo 2.0 from Spin Life’s website. The three-wheel scooter comes with two USB charging ports, a lifetime limited warranty, and a front basket. The mobility scooter from Pride also features a console that is easy for seniors to understand and use. The mode of transport is well-suited for those looking for a heavy-duty scooter that is also easy to transport. One can also drive the scooter for up to 13 miles, with a maximum speed of about 5 miles per hour.

Used mobility scooters and purchasing tips
Those who do not have access to financial assistance from Medicare to cover part of the cost should consider going for a used mobility scooter. These are available for a much lower price based on where or which model one purchases. However, there are several factors one needs to consider when buying a pre-owned scooter.

Mobility needs
One may require a lighter scooter to get around the block or a more rigid option for long-range outdoor travel. Mobility needs, such as where the individual plans on driving the scooter and what they are likely to use it for, are significant factors to consider when making the purchase.

Place of purchase
Whether they are buying it from an individual seller or a dealership, the former may still offer the scooter at a lower price. Although, the vehicle’s condition’s authenticity depends on their word. And while purchasing from a dealership or medical supply store may cost more, one may benefit from communicating with experts and receiving certain guarantees about the scooter’s condition.

Overall performance
When buying a used mobility scooter, it is important for one to check factors like the tire and battery condition. These are two components that might need replacing based on their usage. So, even if an individual may spend little on the purchase, they may spend a lot more on replacement parts. Other components to inspect before purchasing include the cosmetic appearance, such as dents or scratches, and repair history (if any).