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When your mobility is limited, this is when you realise how important it really is. Simple errands like popping to the shops or visiting a neighbour can prove impossible. However, we here at Beechfield Healthcare, don’t think that limited mobility should stop you from getting around and doing the things you love. If you are finding it harder to move about and are relying on the help of others, it may be time to start thinking about investing in a mobility scooter.

Mobility Scooters come in a wide range of models, and are a great option for those who want to remain active despite their limited agility. There are many factors to consider when choosing the right mobility scooter for your specific needs. Some of these include:

 Will you be using the scooter daily or just a couple of times a week?

If you are going to be relying heavily on your scooter then you must buy a good quality, durable scooter with a long life and extra comfort. If the scooter will only be used a couple of times a week then the bobcat scooter will be ideal for you.

Where will you be using the scooter?

If you are going to use the scooter indoors, in your home or in shopping centres, you will need a more compact scooter for smoother turns down halls and on shopping centre floors. However, if you plan on using the scooter outdoors, going to work or in the park, you will need a mobility scooter with a higher clearance for footpaths and a larger battery.

Will you need to bring it in the boot of the car?

If you need to regularly put the scooter into the boot, then you should choose a boot scooter. Boot scooters are lightweight, compact and are specially designed to be transported and folded, perfect for most car boots and days out.

What weight will be carried on the scooter?

Heavier users will need a more durable and hard-wearing mobility scooter. There are many contributing factors to the weight being carried on the scooter. These must be considered when choosing the right mobility scooter for your safety and needs. Many users forget to factor in the weight of breathing apparatus they may be using or shopping bags they may be carrying when choosing the right mobility scooter. Some people may have gained a little extra weight due to medication, a medical condition or lack of exercise due to limited mobility.

Is the user taller and will he or she need extra leg room?

If you are taller, you will need extra leg room for added comfort and safety. This will prevent you getting cramps and pains in your legs.

Will the scooter be used on long journeys, if so they will need a larger battery?

If you are going to use your scooter on longer journeys you will need a scooter with a larger battery to last the journey. When the battery is well maintained and charged daily it can last up to 3 years. It is important for the user to get into the habit of charging the battery daily and keeping an eye on its quality.

Where are you going to store your scooter?

It is recommended that your mobility scooter should be stored in dry conditions, not too warm or cold for maximum longevity and safety. Damp conditions are extremely damaging for the motor, battery and electrical elements of the scooter.

Here at Beechfield Healthcare, we are sure to have a mobility scooter to suit all your needs. We have an extensive range of scooters to choose from, and our experts are available to help at any time. Go to beechfieldhealthcare.ie to see our full range of mobility scooters, or phone us on 0818 989 353.

Mobility is important and when your mobility is limited, it can slow you down. However, you don’t need to stop experiencing life the way you want to live it. If you are finding it harder and harder to get around and need occasional or part-time mobility assistance to perform your daily activities, a Mobility Scooter might be just the right solution for you.

Scooters are a great option if you are looking to get out and about, they’re perfect for going shopping or running other errands and staying involved in your local community.

Small Mobility Scooters

Small scooters, also known as boot scooters, are ideal for short distances on even surfaces. They are compact enough that when dismantled they can fit in a car boot. The maximum range of a small scooter is typically 6-10 miles depending on the model. The top speed is approx. 4mph.

Medium Mobility Scooters

Medium scooters usually have better suspension, larger wheels and larger batteries which mean that they can handle rougher terrain and have a longer range. As they are bigger than the small scooters, they don’t normally disassemble and are generally not suitable for transporting in a car boot. The maximum range of a medium scooter is between 13-30 miles. Medium Mobility Scooters have a top speed of between 4-8mph depending on the model.

Large Mobility Scooters

Large mobility scooters are bigger and have even better suspension and wheels than the medium scooter. They can handle all types of terrain and they usually come with indicators lights, headlamps and a comfortable Admirals seat for a smoother journey. These scooters are ideal if you have a lot of outdoor storage space to keep a large scooter. The maximum range for a large scooter is 25-32mph. The top speed is approx. 8mph.

Scooter Accessories

We have a large range of scooter accessories that fully complement any scooter from backpacks to tiller bags and scooter covers. Check out the full range.

Following on from our article on considerations when buying a mobility scooter, Beechfield Healthcare are here to share a number of tips related to mobility scooter safety.Read the instruction manual: 

It may sound obvious but reading the instruction manual for your mobility scooter will help familiarise yourself with the functions and limitations of the scooter while also providing you with instructions on safe use, its capabilities on rough terrains, required maintenance and especially battery charging.

Navigating ramped curbs: 

With a mobility scooter, it is best to drive the scooter head-on at any ramped curbs. The manual should once again come in handy to instruct on the scooter’s ability to navigate steep ramps. Do not drive up ramps at an angle as this may cause the scooter to tip.

Be visible: 

When travelling by road, be aware that mobility scooters are at a height disadvantage to other motorists. It is, therefore, important to:

• Wear brightly coloured or reflective clothing. Placing reflective strips on the back and sides of the scooter is also worth considering.
• If your scooter has lights, switch them on so that you are more visible in dark or overcast conditions.
• A brightly coloured flag attached to the backseat of the scooter improves your visibility and allows you to be seen from a distance.

Obey traffic rules: 

Mobility scooter users are classified as pedestrians. This means following the same rules as pedestrians such as travelling by footpath if accessible and crossing the road at pedestrian crossings. Always be cautious when using the road and make eye contact with motorists before crossing to ensure that they are intending to stop and let you by.

Be prepared: 

When travelling around in your mobility scooter, familiarise yourself with the places you go to most. This will warn you of obstacles that may hinder or slow down your journey, allowing you plan the best route in future. During this process, take someone with you to help out and always carry a mobile phone in case you are stuck when alone. When disembarking from your scooter, make sure it’s turned off and the brake is applied to prevent accidents.

Conclusion:

If you are interested in buying a mobility scooter from us, check out our full range of mobility scooters. If you need impartial, free, professional advice call us on 057 868 2304. Our scooters come with free delivery to anywhere on the island of Ireland and we will not be beaten on price.

People with mobility issues may often consider buying a mobility scooter for getting around and carrying out everyday tasks. They may also wonder how a mobility scooter compares to cars in terms of flexibility, convenience and legislation. If you are one of these people, or have a loved one considering the purchase of a mobility scooter, Beechfield Healthcare offers the following advice.

Choose the right mobility scooter for you: 

Before buying a mobility scooter, it is important to assess the situation so that you can make the right purchase. Factors include the severity and expected length of mobility issues, the amount of journeying that will be done in the mobility scooter and the type of terrain that the scooter will be travelling on regularly. These factors together should determine whether a mobility scooter is worth a purchase and which type best meets your needs.

Legislation involved in mobility scooters versus cars: 

Unlike cars, you do not need to pass a test, hold a licence or obtain road tax to ride around on a mobility scooter. Mobility scooters are classified similarly to bicycles. Scooter users are expected to use roads and pathways the same way as pedestrians.

Features of a mobility scooter: 

Mobility scooters come in three standard sizes of small, medium and large. Small boot scooters are relatively inexpensive, easily dismantled and lightweight, making them easy to store away or take with you in the boot of your car. Medium and large scooters are heavier and bulkier but they are equipped with more features which allow for longer journeys, carrying luggage or shopping, navigating rougher terrain and generally have longer battery lives.

Mobility scooter maintenance and warranty: 

Mobility scooters require very little maintenance. The main areas of focus here are to ensure that the batteries are charged daily, tyre pressure is checked weekly and that the machine is kept clean. It is important to buy your mobility scooter from a reputable source and comes with a comprehensive warranty. It is also hugely beneficial to buy off a company who will do regular service checks on the scooter to ensure that it continues working correctly and where they can offer advice.

Conclusion:

Mobility scooters are a worthy consideration for people with mobility issues due to their convenience, low cost and ability to use indoors and outdoors.

Beechfield Healthcare offer a full range of mobility scooters and give free impartial advice on what type would best suit your needs and budget. For further information call 057 868 2304.