There comes a time in many peoples lives that walking around is just not as easy as it used to be. This can be due to medical conditions, age, or a combination of both. In these cases a mobility scooter can be very valuable. A mobility scooter is a device that is similar to a wheelchair in that it is a transportation aid, but both the sitting position and the way the wheels are configured is very different.
Mobility scooters come in either 3-wheel or 4-wheel configuration and most feature some sort of captains seat that is mounted over the back wheels. Some of these chairs are similar in design to an office chair or one that is found in a boat. Depending on the model, some of the chairs are overstuffed, extra wide, high back, and some even feature a built in electric lift, that raises and lowers the seat to make it easier to get on and off of the unit.
Virtually all manufacturers of mobility scooters use electricity to power the units. Some earlier models were gas powered but this was largely phased out. This is because electricity is safe to use indoors, does not risk explosion or carry the same risk of fire that gas does, and
the components of the motor do not get hot like a gas engine does. Electricity and batteries
have come a long way and so electric mobility scooters are also much more cost effective than a gas
powered scooter is.
Mobility scooters have a wide variety of features. Most offer an adjustable tiller, which is used to steer the
unit, that can be moved to make the controls accessible for most individuals. Swivel seats, adjustable armrests, cane holders, and oxygen tank holders are just some of the different features and accessories that are available for many units.
Finding an electric mobility scooter that will fit your needs is rarely a problem. If you intend to largely use the device indoors, then you will want to find a unit that has a small turning radius and does not take up as much space. 3-wheel scooters are typically great for indoors, because by only using 1 wheel in the front, the turning radius is greatly reduced. For outdoor use the range per charge, speed, and tires is likely to be more important.
