9 Benefits of a Mobility Scooter

Mobility scooters can do an excellent job of improving the quality of life. If you or someone you know has lost mobility, one of these scooters can offer a sense of independence to run errands and enjoy the outdoors without assistance. 

Finding a mobility scooter that works for you can be quite a task! There is quite a lot of competition in the market. Whether you're considering a folding mobility scooter or an electric motor scooter, you can benefit from it. 

 

How Mobility Scooters Can Help

We can provide some insight if you decide whether to buy an electric mobility scooter. There is a long list of benefits to these scooters. We will discuss the history of electric scooters before moving into the benefits. 

 

History of Mobility Scooters

The first electric wheelchair was invented in the 1950s. While these wheelchairs held a good purpose, they had some limitations. Unfortunately, until the late 1960s, there was no invention for people who could walk short distances. When arthritis or mobility issues begin to arise, many people still want to have more mobility than a wheelchair offers. Thankfully, Allan R. Thieme invented the first mobility scooter. 

Thieme was inspired by a friend who had multiple sclerosis. His friend had not entirely lost the ability to walk but had difficulty moving long distances. To solve this, Thieme worked diligently at his home in Michigan. Before long, he invented the first power-operated scooter. It was a yellow scooter that changed mobility for many Americans. 

Since then, mobility scooters have evolved. They can travel longer distances, move faster, and even fold up for easy travel. This has given freedom to millions of people who had previously struggled with walking. Having a sense of freedom and independence greatly contributes to mental health. Thanks to Thieme, this feeling can be extended. 

 

Benefits of Mobility Scooters

Now that we've discussed the history of mobility scooters, it's time to explain some of their benefits. There is a long list of advantages to investing in one of these. We will share a list of nine benefits that should be helpful. 

1. Travel Quicker

There's no doubt that walking is the slowest form of transportation. A lack of mobility amplifies that. Walkers and manual wheelchairs do not speed up the process at all. Furthermore, it can be challenging to keep up with somebody who doesn't have poor mobility. This can make walks and visits challenging. 
With a mobility scooter, you can travel at a much quicker speed. In fact, the average speed for electric mobility scooters is 4 miles per hour, which is the equivalent of 6.43 kilometers per hour. Some models can even go 8 miles per hour (or 12.87 kilometers per hour). Needless to say, this is a much quicker venture than walking. 

If you want to be more efficient and speedy while out and about, an electric mobility scooter can achieve it. 

2. Independence 

As we previously mentioned, independence is a huge factor. Many elderly people explain that one of the biggest struggles of getting older is being unable to do everything independently. Parents are used to caring for everyone around them, so when the roles are reversed, it can damage their mental well-being. 

Seniors and those with mobility challenges can once again be free to complete daily tasks. They will be able to do what they want when they want to, which is a huge bonus. 

Manual wheelchairs often require the individual to have somebody that can push you forward. This kept the elderly person constantly relying on the people around them. With an electric scooter, the individual can travel freely with the touch of a button. This can be an incentive to go out and get active. 

3. Versatility

Since mobility scooters have hit the market, there have been several companies that manufacture and sell them. This results in there being many different options for people to choose from. Mobility scooters come in different sizes, functionalities, speeds, and steering mechanisms. 

This versatility in the marketplace means that you can likely find the perfect fit for your individual needs. If you require a wider seat, there will be a scooter for you. If you need adjustable armrests, you can certainly find them. Even folding electric scooters are perfect for smaller residences, such as an assisted living complex.

4. Comfort

If you invest in a mobility scooter, you must find it comfortable. Traveling for long distances wouldn't be feasible if you were extremely uncomfortable during the trip. Mobility scooters are designed to offer premium levels of comfort. There are often extra padded seats, armrests, and footrests that provide you with the support you need. 

Basic wheelchairs can lack comfort. They often have only lightly padded seats and may even have metal armrests. Luckily, mobility scooters are much more efficient than that. When shopping for a scooter, look for designs with high reviews or that you have tested personally. Try to find a scooter that suits your needs. For example, opt for a wider seat if you carry more weight. These minor considerations will make a massive difference in your overall experience. 

5. Injury Prevention

Let's face it: most of us will lose some of our mobility at some point in our lives. Struggling to walk can quickly lead to falls and accidents. Lack of mobility can be dangerous and lead to hospital stays and broken bones. Doing your part to prevent injuries and stay healthy is essential. 

Falls can be extremely painful, so we recommend you do your best to avoid them. With a mobility scooter, you will minimize your chances of getting hurt. Instead of pushing your body too far on a walk to the grocery store, you can stay resting and let the scooter do the work. 

6. Improved Lifestyle

Remaining in the comfort of your own home for days on end isn't healthy. Lacking a social life, time in nature, and the ability to change scenery can have adverse side effects. Having independence and being able to do daily tasks will improve your lifestyle. 

A mobility scooter will make your ability to do activities much more accessible. Even simple tasks like going to appointments and sitting in the park with a friend can make a big difference. By purchasing a scooter, you can do these things without relying on other people to facilitate it. Improved lifestyle and mental health are huge reasons a mobility scooter is worth the investment. 

7. Improved Social Life

We all need social lives! Humans are social creatures, so connecting with others is a huge factor in living a healthy and happy lifestyle. If you’re struggling with the ability to move, you may find yourself withdrawing from social situations. Some people find this embarrassing or massively limiting. However, too much time alone isn’t good for your well-being. 

With a mobility scooter, you can improve your social life because you can visit friends and family when you would like to. You can go to locations to enjoy a nice cup of coffee and get out in nature! This will also allow you to attend certain events without assistance from people around you. This makes a huge impact on how you will interact with others and see the world around you. 

8. No License/Registration

The necessary paperwork for driving motor vehicles is expensive! When you buy a car, you must register it, insure it, and have a valid driver's license. Some seniors lose the right to obtain a driver's license, making completing these tasks impossible. 

With a mobility scooter, you don’t need a license or registration. This means that you won’t need stressful road tests and doctor’s recommendations just to buy one. Anybody can drive a mobility scooter, as they are safe and only travel at a slow speed. This can be a huge benefit for those that don’t want to spend the money on licenses or those who have had theirs revoked. 

9. Travel on Transit

A mobility scooter isn’t an efficient way to travel long distances. Because of this, you may need to hop on public transit, such as a bus or train. Getting to the bus stop is a battle in itself. Because many scooters are electric folding scooters, you can simply fold them up and put them in transit with you. This means that you’ll have your scooter with you wherever you go!

Another bonus with the folding option is that it is easy to bring these motorized scooters into your house or condo. They can fold up small to take up a minimal room if you live in a small space. Regardless of where you live, a mobility scooter can work. 

 

Conclusion

Deciding to buy a folding mobility scooter can be intimidating. However, there are many options on the market for you. This investment can significantly impact your overall well-being and daily efficiency. Instead of relying on others to help you complete everyday tasks, you can have the freedom and independence you had when you were younger. Hopefully, these nine benefits provided some insight into why this is a good purchase.