Mobility for the Elderly: Scooter Options That Can Improve Your Life
By Publisher
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For the elderly, scooter amenities like comfy seats and powerful motors can mean a whole new level of freedom and independence around the house, throughout the neighborhood, and beyond. In fact, mobility scooters are allowed in shops, on buses, and anywhere else that pedestrians are permitted. Some models are even suitable for air travel.
That's why more and more adults are realizing the benefits of using motorized scooters. At the start of this century, only 142,000 Americans over age 65 used electric scooters to help them get around, according to the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research. About a decade later, that number had grown to 815,000, according to a study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. The study says that, in total, roughly two percent of U.S. seniors use mobility scooters.
Below, you'll discover the different types of scooters you can choose and what factors you should think about when doing so. You'll also learn what you can expect to pay for a scooter and how you may be able to get the government to cover some of the cost. And you'll get details about 13 of the best scooter models that are worth considering.
Basic Types of Mobility Scooters
Do you find it difficult to walk around for more than a short amount of time? If so, a medical scooter may be exactly what you need. But in order to choose one that's right for you, you need to understand your options. There are two basic types of power scooters:
- Three-wheeled scooters have two wheels in the back and one centered in the front. They work best on smooth, level ground. Their tight turning radius makes them good at maneuvering indoors and in crowded spaces. They offer more leg room than four-wheeled models, so they are often a good option for people who are taller or have leg or knee problems. They also tend to be lighter and less expensive than four-wheeled scooters. However, they are not as stable as the models with four wheels, and they are generally not great on gravel or grass.
- Four-wheeled scooters are more like mini cars, with two wheels in the back and two in the front. They provide more even weight distribution and offer good stability on many types of terrain, including grass, dirt, hills, and curbs. However, they require more space to turn, which makes them less maneuverable. They are also typically heavier than three-wheeled scooters, and they tend to cost more.
Within each of the above categories, you can find scooters that are touted as "travel" or "compact" models. These are designed to fold down or come apart in order to fit into a closet, vehicle trunk, or aircraft cargo bin. They are typically lightweight and often have safety features such as leakproof batteries that make them ideal for transport. However, they may not be super comfortable, and they may not be rated for your size.
Some three- or four-wheeled scooters are "heavy duty" models, which means they can support extra weight (sometimes up to 500 pounds). They tend to have wider seats and adjustable armrests. However, they might be too big to fit through doorways.
Keep in mind that an electric scooter is not the same thing as an electric wheelchair. Motorized wheelchairs are high-tech machines that are designed for people who have mobility challenges in both their lower and upper bodies. They offer a wide range of seating positions and are controlled by joysticks (which can be operated via hand, eye, or even mouth movements). They are typically much more expensive than scooters.
What to Look For in a Motorized Scooter for Elderly People
A senior scooter can be a major investment, so you want to be sure you weigh all the pertinent factors. Here are some important things to think about when shopping for a scooter:
- Intended use: Do you want a scooter to help you maneuver inside your home? If so, it might be important to get one that can make sharp turns. Are you looking for a model that can take you around the neighborhood or through the park? If that's the case, you will probably want one that can handle hills or curbs. Different scooters are designed for different uses, so be sure to choose one that's meant for what you want to do.
- Comfort: If the seat is too hard, your legs are too cramped, or you can't easily reach the controls, the scooter won't be very useful for you. Comfort may be especially important if you have back issues, joint problems, or some type of disability. Scooters often let you change the height of the seat, but some models feature wider seats, extra padding, or adjustable backs and armrests. Some higher-end models even have headrests and seats that recline.
- Capacity: Make sure the scooter's weight limit can accommodate you as well as anything else you plan to carry (such as shopping items, oxygen tanks, or extra batteries). Most scooters are designed to hold anywhere between 250 and 300 pounds, but some heavy-duty models can handle up to 500 pounds.
- Portability: If you want to be able to transport your scooter in a vehicle, consider how easy it is to take apart and put back together. Find out how many components you have to deal with and how much each individual piece weighs. You may want to look for a model that folds down rather than completely disassembles. Keep in mind that some heavier models neither fold nor come apart.
- Battery life and operating range: How far do you want to be able to go before recharging? Typically, scooters can go 10 to 15 miles before running out of power, but some can only make seven miles and others can go 25 miles or more. If you're just using it around the house or for short trips outside, a limited operating range may be fine. But if you plan to use it to tour around for extended periods of time, you'll want to be sure the battery will last. Be aware that any scooter's operating range will change depending on things like how much weight it carries and how many hills it climbs.
- Turning radius: The smaller the turning radius, the easier it will be to make a U-turn or navigate around tight corners. That's particularly important if you will be using your scooter indoors. Most scooters have a turning radius between 33 and 55 inches. As noted above, a three-wheeled model will generally have a lower turning radius than one that has four wheels. (However, a three-wheeled scooter is more prone to tipping over.)
- Controls: The steering column at the front of the scooter is called the tiller. Some scooters have T-shaped tillers with bicycle-type handlebars that use separate thumb levers for forward and backward motion control. Other scooters have delta tillers, which feature D-shaped wrap-around handles that give you somewhere to rest your wrists. If you have poor hand strength or limited dexterity, a delta tiller is a better option.
- Speed: The top speed of most scooters is somewhere between 4 and 5 miles per hour (mph). The slowest ones top out at about 3 mph, which is about as fast as an average person walks. That pace is likely fine for an indoor scooter. Some speedier models can go 10 mph or more, which might be more practical for outdoor travel. But if you have balance issues or are worried about losing control, you may want a scooter that doesn't go too fast. Most models allow you to set a maximum user speed for safety.
- Maximum incline: This tells you how much of an angle the scooter can climb while keeping all of its wheels on the ground. Scooters can generally handle inclines of anywhere between six and 12 degrees. A scooter that has the power and stability to handle steeper angles will be more useful on varied outdoor terrain. (Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, commercial ramps can have no more than a five-degree incline, so all scooters should be able to navigate them.)
How Much Do Scooters Cost?
A mobility scooter costs anywhere from $700 to $5,000, depending on its features. (That might seem high, but keep in mind that the cost of an electric wheelchair can be up to $15,000!)
Medicare covers scooters for seniors in certain situations, but you have to meet fairly stringent requirements. You must be covered under Part B, and your doctor must sign an order saying that an electric scooter is medically necessary for you to use inside your home. In this case, "medically necessary" means that you cannot perform tasks like cooking or using the bathroom, even with the help of a cane, walker, or manual wheelchair. Medicare also requires you to demonstrate that you are capable of operating the scooter safely and getting on and off of it safely. (Getting on and off can be with the help of a family member or caregiver who is always available to assist you.)
If you qualify, you must pay your Part B deductible (if you haven't already paid it for the year). Medicare will then cover 80 percent of the approved cost of the scooter, and you will be responsible for the remaining 20 percent.
However, under Medicare rules, the scooter has to be intended for use inside your home. So if you only need a scooter to get around outdoors, or the one you choose won't fit through your home's doorways, Medicare will not cover it. Also, your claim will be denied if you do not purchase from a Medicare-approved supplier, so be sure to take that into account when considering where to buy scooters.
Medicaid covers electric scooters for people who meet certain conditions, but those conditions vary somewhat from state to state. In many states, you can get a free mobility scooter if you live in a Medicaid-funded nursing home and the staff believe you have a need for such a device. Contact your state Medicaid office to learn about the specific rules in your region.
Keep in mind that you don't necessarily have to purchase a scooter outright. You can rent a mobility scooter online or over the phone and have it delivered either to your home or to places like hotels or cruise ships. Some firms carry well-known mobility scooter brands such as Pride Mobility; others offer their own brands. Costs typically range from $20 to $60 per day. Discounted rates are often available for weekly or long-term rentals.
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5 of the Best Three-Wheeled Motorized Scooters for Adults
Leaning toward a three-wheeled model? Here are a few of the best options to consider:
1. Zip'r Breeze 3-Wheel Scooter
With its wide, well-cushioned seat, heavy-duty drivetrain, and 300-pound capacity, the Zip'r Breeze is an excellent choice for larger seniors looking for both power and performance. This scooter can go up to 4.5 miles per hour, and it can travel as far as 20 miles on a single charge. However, while it can be disassembled, the heaviest piece weighs a little over 66 pounds, so it's not super portable.
Buy on Amazon2. EV Rider Gypsy Ultralight
Looking for a foldable electric scooter for elderly folks who like to explore the world? The EV Rider Gypsy Ultralight may be the answer. This lightweight electric scooter is less than 40 pounds when fully assembled and conveniently folds down to fit into a car trunk or aircraft hold. It can support up to 250 pounds and go up to 10 miles on a charge.
Buy on Amazon3. EWheels EW-36
With an incredible 18-mph top speed and 45-mile operating range, this sporty scooter is packed with power. The dual rear shock absorbers and padded armrests and headrest ensure that you get a smooth and comfortable ride. There is even a USB port, so you can charge your mobile devices while you're out and about. However, the EW-36 is very heavy, and it doesn't disassemble or fold down.
Buy on Amazon4. Go-Go Ultra X
The Go-Go Ultra X is a very good portable scooter for elderly people who need extra help getting around the house or through the shopping mall. It has a turning radius of just 33 inches, so it can handle tight corners. And it comes apart into five lightweight pieces, so it's easy to transport. With a maximum speed of 4 mph and an operating range of about eight miles, it's best suited to indoor use or short errands. It can hold up to 260 pounds.
Buy on Amazon5. Drive Medical Scout Compact Travel Power Scooter
This lightweight scooter disassembles quickly and easily, so toting it around town shouldn't be a problem. The Scout features a height-adjustable swivel seat, padded armrests, a delta tiller, and a seat back that folds down for ease of storage. It has a 300-pound capacity, goes up to 4.25 mph, and can cover roughly nine miles before needing to recharge.
Buy on Amazon8 of the Best Four-Wheeled Electric Scooters for Elderly People
Scooters with four wheels offer greater stability and are good choices for getting around the yard, the neighborhood, or points further afield. Check out these nine models:
1. Pride Maxima 4 Wheel HD Scooter
Of all the options on this list, the Pride Maxima is the best mobility scooter for the outdoors. It features an adjustable tiller, non-scuffing tires, LED lighting, and a well-cushioned fully adjustable chair. Plus, it can move up to 5.3 mph, and it can travel as many as 16 miles on a charge. It accommodates up to 500 pounds.
Buy on Amazon2. Luggie Compact Folding Mobility Scooter
With an overall weight of just 50 pounds and an impressive 36-inch turning radius, the Luggie is one of the lightest and most maneuverable four-wheeled scooters on the market. It performs well outdoors, folds down easily for storage and transport, and can cover up to 12 miles before running out of power. It only supports 250 pounds and has no on-board storage, but for smaller seniors who want a compact travel scooter, the Luggie is a solid choice.
Buy on Amazon3. Golden Technologies Companion Scooter GC440
This scooter's high ground clearance and large tires make it well-suited for traversing uneven terrain. The GC440 also offers an exceptional amount of leg and foot room for taller users. It includes an easily adjustable delta tiller, padded armrests, and a cushy, foldable seat. It can handle up to 350 pounds, and it can go 15 miles without needing to recharge.
Buy on Amazon4. Shoprider Sunrunner
The outstanding 25-mile operating range of the Shoprider Sunrunner means it can go pretty much all day when fully charged. This robust scooter features cushioned armrests, a luxurious captain's chair with full back support, and an adjustable tiller with padded bike-style handles. It lacks shock absorbers, but the pneumatic tires provide extra comfort over rough ground.
Buy on Amazon5. Vive 4 Wheel Mobility Scooter
Ride around the neighborhood in comfort with the Vive 4. Capable of holding up to 265 pounds, this scooter has a maximum speed of 3.7 mph and has an operating range of 12.4 miles. The height-adjustable seat can be positioned several different ways, and the folding tiller provides easy handling. The Vive 4 can navigate indoor surfaces and is also suited for outdoor use.
Buy on Amazon6. Buzzaround EX
If you want a rugged scooter that offers a comfortable ride and impressive battery life, have a look at the Buzzaround EX. It boasts good suspension, a cushioned delta tiller, and a height-adjustable seat. Plus, it can go as many as 18 miles on a single charge, and it even disassembles quickly for transport. However, the heaviest piece weighs over 50 pounds, so you may need help to get this scooter in and out of a trunk.
Buy on Amazon7. EV Rider RiderXpress
The RiderXpress stands out for its sharp 38.6-inch turning radius, which makes it exceptionally nimble for a four-wheeled scooter. It has a maximum speed of 5 mph, can go more than a dozen miles before running out of power, and can even handle inclines of up to 12 degrees. It also features monoshock suspension for a smooth and stable ride.
Buy on Amazon8. Drive Medical Phoenix HD
This heavy-duty scooter can support up to 350 pounds and boasts a swivel seat, a foldable backrest, padded armrests that can be adjusted for both height and width, and an easy-to-handle delta tiller. The ergonomic throttle can be controlled with a single finger, and the scooter can easily be taken apart into four relatively lightweight pieces.
Buy on AmazonFind What You Need to Get Moving
Whether you're looking for an electric scooter to get around the house or around the world, the information above can help you zero in on a model that works best for you.
