Mobility Scooters – Facts and Information

Is it a wheelchair or a scooter? You may have seen one in your neighborhood; an older person who is self-sufficient as she moves around her home independently and with ease, as if she were riding a scooter, while she is sitting in her wheelchair. It’s called a Mobility Scooter. Now you have become more interested with this type of vehicle. Let’s keep reading…

Let’s start by learning about wheelchairs. They are said to have existed as early as the 6th century, when the first known image was carved on stone. During the 16th century, King Philip II of Spain already used a wheelchair that had armrests and legs. In 1932, the first folding tubular wheelchair was built by Eng. Harry Jennings. This was built for a paraplegic friend, Herbert Everest.

Scooters, on the other hand, evolved from motorcycles. The first motorcycles that looked like scooters were made in or before 1914, but the first patent was granted in 1921. They were designed primarily for personal transportation.

In 1968, Allan R. Thieme of Bridgeport, Michigan invented the first known mobility scooter, the Amigo. It was created for a family member who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and was experiencing loss of mobility. This simple act of compassion for a loved one created an impact and launched the entire scooter industry. Mr. Thieme’s idea to add power to a manual wheelchair not only had a huge impact on his family, but on the entire disability community around the world.

Mobility scooters are also known as electric scooters or electric vehicles/scooters. It is in most cases, used by people with reduced mobility. It is ideally beneficial for those who have limited arm or shoulder flexibility, for those who do not have the stamina to walk for a long period of time, and for those who have systemic or disabling whole-body conditions such as arthritis, pulmonary or coronary problems, cerebral palsy, etc.

The vehicle is primarily designed with comfort and mobility in mind. The area of ​​the feet is usually flat. The seat, as in the manual wheelchair, also has armrests and is mounted on the two rear wheels of the vehicle. Some seats were designed to swivel for greater mobility and comfort. It also has a handlebar at the front, which controls one or two directional wheels. The user must have an upright posture with sufficient hand and shoulder strength to control the rudder steering mechanism.

Batteries are the usual power sources for mobility scooters. Modern designs are electrically powered and use rechargeable batteries. Depending on the design, some can go up to 40 miles per charge. Due to this power source, mobility scooters can be used indoors and outdoors.

There are two styles of mobility scooters. First there are the 3 wheel mobility scooters which are made for tight spaces and allow for maneuverability, these are recommended for indoor use such as in homes, shopping centers and supermarkets. It is also ideal for use in narrow alleyways. The second one is the 4 wheel mobility scooter, which is basically designed for more stability and better balance to prevent tripping.

When choosing your mobility scooter, you must take into account the different types available on the market: There is the “Travel”. This type is designed for easy transport and is usually lightweight. “Traditional” mobility scooters are those that can be taken apart and can support a large amount of weight. The last type is the “heavy duty”. These are made for the larger users. They are fast, durable and rough. Like the traditional type, they can also be disassembled.

Now that you’ve learned about that cool vehicle your neighbor is using to maneuver around the park and into the malls, do you want to just walk? or you’ll also get your own mobility scooter, for that leisurely ride around the neighborhood you’ve always wanted to do.