Disability Scooters

Disability scooters are perfect for impaired people

• What are disability scooters?

Disability scooters or electric mopeds are considered excellent mobility aid machines. Their main function is identical to that of a wheelchair but it looks and works like a motor scooter. They are also known as electric scooters or power-operated scooters/vehicles.

• Features of disability scooters?

Disability scooters usually have a cushioned seat that’s placed over the wheels. There can be scooters with three, four, or five wheels, depending on the models. They also have a flat plate for the feet to stay comfortable. Moreover, in front there are handlebars that are designed to turn the steerable wheels. In case the handlebars block the front, the seat can be swiveled in order to allow access. These disability scooters work on battery power. Dependent on the model, they can use one or two batteries. They are placed on board and are usually charged with the help of a battery charger unit that uses electric power.

• Types of disability scooters

On the market there can also be some types of these disability scooters that work on gasoline. However, because of the new regulations they are slowly being removed and replaced with electric ones. The front of these disability scooters also has a steering column that’s situated right in the center. This column is also referred to as a tiller. Practically, this tiller controls the entire moped. It has speed controls and reverse/forward directions. The latter ones may be controlled by a switch, finger controls or thumb paddles. These disability scooters can be of two types: rear-wheel drive (RD) or front-wheel drive (FD). The RD can be used outdoors and indoors and it has a weight capacity of almost 350 pounds. Depending on the model, there can be rear-drives that may reach even 500 pounds. The FD is much smaller and it’s suitable for indoor use. Its weight capacity reaches 250 pounds. The very first disability scooter was invented in Michigan, in 1968, by Allan R. Thieme. His invention was assigned for a family member that had multiple sclerosis.

• Benefits o disability scooters

There are many benefits of these types of scooters. First of all, they help people with mobility disorders from all around the world. They are extremely useful for people that don’t have shoulder or arm flexibility or the stamina to make use of the wheelchair. Moreover, the fact that the seat can be swiveled is very beneficial. This is a lot easier than changing the foot supports on the traditional wheelchairs. People who have entirely or systemic disabling conditions can benefit from these disability scooters. People suffering from obesity, certain types of arthritis, lung or coronary issues and can still walk some steps and stand can use these scooters. This tool is also useful for those persons who can control the tiller and can sit without the need of a torso support.

• What model of disability scooter should you take into account?

An important advantage of these disability scooters is that they don’t look like a traditional wheelchair. Therefore, it would be harder for people to judge the persons that use them, since disability is seen as a shameful thing. The last, but not the least benefit is that they are more affordable than the powered wheelchairs. Among the most efficient disability scooters is the Power Scooter Daytona 3 Wheel Electric Scooter. Its suitable for outdoor and indoor use, it has 3 wheels and a turning radius of 40 inches. It’s very easy to transport, to install and to disassemble. Also, it has a headlight and batteries. So, if you are in need of a disability scooter, don’t hesitate. Just be careful to choose the best one for you.