Dealing with a Disability

One of the disappointments of getting older is finding that walking is becoming painful or slow or maybe you are dealing with the challenges of a disability. By acquiring an electric scooter to help with mobility, you can achieve some independence and freedom of getting around. Designs vary, with some electric scooters suited mainly for indoor use, and others equipped for rugged outdoor terrain.

Two major classes of disability electric scooters are three wheeled and four wheeled models. The three wheeled electric scooters are easier to maneuver into tight spaces. They are a little less stable than the four wheel models, which are more rugged for using outdoors. Another convenient option in electric scooters is the ability to be folded up. This can help people who want to take their scooter on a car trip.

The base of a mobility scooter is usually made of a durable material, such as aluminum or fiberglass with a sturdy floor that will support the person's feet without crowding them. The feet should not have to be set unnaturally, and they should not interfere with the use of the controls of the scooter. The wheels attached to the base should be designed to be anti-tip. Front wheel drive tends to not be as powerful as rear wheel drive, especially if trying to negotiate a hill.

The electric scooter will also have a drive train, brakes, and a power source. As stated above, rear wheel drive tends to be better for outdoor use, while front wheel drive is fine for scooters used indoors. Front wheel drive scooters usually have a direct drive system without belts or chains. This is not the case with a rear wheel drive scooter. With these, the added weight of the person above the drive wheels adds power and speed for climbing. They can generally hold heavier riders, as well. Some are so large, however, that they are impossible to load into a van and difficult to use indoors.

Electric scooters need brakes for safety, and most are equipped with them. The types of brakes used vary, with electro-mechanical and disc brakes both in use. Some are equipped with a manual park brake as well.

The electricity that powers an electric scooter is stored in a 12 volt battery. Some of the more powerful scooters require another battery as well. The batteries used in scooters often last over a year, with even longer lives not uncommon. They must be discharged and recharged regularly. The batteries are called "deep cycle" batteries because they are designed to provide steady power for a long time. Batteries used in cars and boats provide a burst of energy for starting the motor, so they are not suitable to use in electric scooters.

The seat of an electric scooter can be either padded or unpadded. As mobility scooters become more widespread, variations in seats are being designed. Some have textured upholstery which helps those whose disability makes it likely they will slide out of the seat. Separate cushions are being provided which help the owner customize the fit. In addition, designers are applying ergonomics more often, which improve the comfort and healthfulness of the seat.

Choosing an electric scooter for increasing mobility is the first step in a more independent life. Scooters require a little maintenance, such as charging the battery and checking the tire pressure. For this bit of input, though, the scooter will serve you for a long time.