A motorized scooter for adults, also called a mobility scooter, is a great way to get around if you have trouble walking for long periods of time or for long distances. These are scooters with a seat attached and an electric motor, and can be a great asset to anyone with mobility issues. Mobility scooters are usually light enough to be easily loaded and carried in a vehicle, which adds to their utility. In many cases, you can get help with payment for these scooters from Medicare, to help offset the cost involved. The top three scooters of this type are the EV RiderXpress, the Luggie, and the EV MiniRider 4-wheel. When shopping for one of these scooters, primary consideration should be given to the distance you may need to go on a single charge and how long it takes to charge the battery. If you're thinking of getting a mobility scooter for yourself or a loved one, check out the following questions and answers for more information.
This scooter is not the most expensive one out there, but it does have the best statistics. The scooter will carry up to 300 pounds and will go 12.5 miles between charges. It will go five miles per hour and can handle ramps up to 12 degrees. It weighs around 50 pounds and is fairly easy to take apart to put in a truck. It takes about 3 hours to charge.
The best value for the budget conscious is the EV MiniRider 4-wheel. This scooter comes in at under $1,000. It is even lighter than the other one from EV, but does not have as big of a seat. It will go 15 miles between charges. It will also handle 12-15 degree ramps with ease. It is recommended for people under 250 pounds.
The Luggie is the Cadillac of scooters, and is one of the pricier scooters, at just over $2,000. This is also the lightest one out there, making it easy to fold up and put in a car. The Luggie is sturdy and has a 36-inch turning circle, which is the best of any out there.
In order to qualify, you must be able to show that you need a scooter in the home in order to function well. You must visit a doctor and get a doctor's statement confirming your physical condition. Note that you need a power wheelchair, this cannot be a substitute. You may also use it outside the home.
Medicare contracts with dealers in your area, and you must buy one from that dealer in order to qualify for payment. Medicare may pay for all of it or part of it. If you have Medicare Advantage, there will be specific rules to follow there to qualify as well.
Most mobility scooters will go around five miles per hour, though some may go slightly faster or slower than this. For comparison, the average walking speed is three miles per hour.
Batteries are what make the scooter go, and in order to prolong the length of time a scooter can be used between charges, the batteries must be fairly big. Typically, mobility scooter batteries weigh between 20 and 40 pounds. The weight of the battery should be a consideration when you are shopping for a scooter, as you will likely have to replace it a few times over the life of the scooter.
Most scooters will go at least 10 miles on a charge, but some are rated for up to 12 to 15 miles on a single charge. The better ones have a gauge that will show you how far you have gone and how close you are to needing a charge.