Is there a mobility scooter in your future? Possibly, if you are somewhat – or occasionally – mobility challenged, but don’t want or need the additional support of a wheelchair.

What is a Mobility Scooter?
We’ve all seen the ads on TV – a jaunty, adventurous older man or woman zipping around on their scooter, having a great time. And, in fact, that image plays to one of the strengths of scooters versus wheelchairs – mobility scooters just seem like a lot of fun. But the reality is that they can be very helpful tools for increased independence for people with disabilities who aren’t ready for – or may never need – a wheelchair.

Mobility scooters come in two models: the three-wheeled types (most common), or the four-wheeled models. Other variations include bariatric scooters for heavier users, lightweight “travel” scooters that can often be disassembled for transport in your car,

Mobility scooters have a “tiller,” a column at the front of the scooter, with which you steer; a seat (many versions swivel); and a platform for your feet. They offer either front- or rear-wheel drive (better for rugged terrain), depending on the model.

Pros and Cons: Mobility Scooters versus Wheelchairs
A mobility scooter is not as adaptable as the other mobility option, wheelchairs. So mobility scooters are most appropriate for individuals with “stable” health conditions, as the devices can’t be reconfigured to respond to their users’ potential deteriorating physical conditions in the same way a manual or power wheelchair can.

Mobility scooters can be more challenging to transport than manual wheelchairs, are less stable than power wheelchairs, and have a much wider turning radius, which can be challenging in a home. On the other hand, they require much less physical exertion than manual wheelchairs, can be more easily transferred into and out of via the swivel seat, and aesthetically feel more like a golf cart than a wheelchair.

Both power wheelchairs and mobility scooters rely on power sources that occasionally fail, meaning that a manual wheelchair may be the most reliable option of all (and certainly the least expensive). Also, because there is not much back support or stabilization, a mobility scooter will work best for those who have good “sitting balance.”

Evaluating and Purchasing Mobility Scooters
When considering a mobility scooter, you’ll want to be sure that:

  • the scooter’s floor platform is roomy enough to support your legs and feet comfortably
  • the controls are within easy reach and are easily understood and used
  • stability has been engineered into the scooter through anti-tip wheels, and it doesn’t tip easily during turns
  • if you intend to transport your scooter, it can easily be disassembled and reassembled
  • the warranty makes clear how maintenance and repairs are handled (locally is highly preferable)

Per ABLEDATA, the resource dedicated to providing information about assistive technology for people with disabilities, “The primary funding sources for scooters are private medical insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid.  Worker’s Compensation insurance may be another funding source if the scooter is needed as the result of a workplace injury.  Insurance plans will only pay for scooters and scooter accessories insofar as they are deemed medically necessary and medical necessity can be an issue in paying for scooters.  Some insurance plans, including Medicare, may deem scooters not medically necessary for individuals who can walk a short distance without assistance.  Issues of medical necessity may also exclude coverage of some optional features that would be beneficial to the individual but which are not deemed necessary.  There may be other limitations on coverage as well, such as frequency of replacement.”

Bottom line:  your funding options will depend on your personal circumstances.

So is a Mobility Scooter for You?
A mobility scooter might be the right choice for you if you have a modest level of mobility impairment, the areas where you would be using the scooter could support its turning radius, and you have sufficient “sitting balance” to easily sit upright on the scooter. Less physically taxing to use than a manual wheelchair, and generally less expensive than a power wheelchair, a mobility scooter may provide just the independence – and sense of fun – you’re looking for.