Mobility independence ensured by scooter...

One of life’s freedoms we all enjoy is to be able to move around, conducting daily activities at our own pace, without having to rely on the others for help. Our sense of independence almost always derives from our physical capabilities and strength. Particularly when our health is in decline, our self-confidence hinges on whether we can remain mobile enough to look after ourselves. The last thing we desire is to become a burden to our loved ones, including our partners, children and friends.

We have all seen elderly and physically challenged people riding mobility scooters in local parks or around shopping centres. These vehicles are powered by batteries, causing no environmental pollution. They move steadily at a speed of up to 10 kilometres per hour and can be easily manoeuvred, allowing their riders to travel on footpaths and cross roads without difficulty. A small safety flag, positioned at the end of the mobility scooter and in red or orange colour, stretches high above the rider’s head to alert other vehicles and pedestrians of his or her existence.

Mobility scooters are for individuals who are mobile enough to operate a vehicle but find it hard to walk distances, due to a disability or health problem. These vehicles are perfect proofs of the self-confidence and physical independence of their riders, because operating them requires considerable hand strength, balance, good vision and hearing, and the ability to concentrate and react appropriately. Riders of mobility scooters also need to remember a wide range of safety procedures and exercise patience, especially in crowded metropolitan areas. In this regard, they can easily act as role models for careless and quick-tempered motorists!

The first mobility scooter was designed and built in 1968 by an American named Allan R. Thieme, in his attempt to help a family member who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. The vehicle was named “Amigo”, which means “friend” in Spanish and Portuguese languages. Today, mobility scooters are available in a wide range of models, from tiny folding one-seaters to heavy-duty wheelchairs designed for carrying weight. Many public facilities, such as museums, galleries and parks, considerably supply mobility scooters for use by elderly and disabled patrons.

When buying a mobility scooter for your loved one, make sure that his or her skills are assessed by professional healthcare workers. Find out where the vehicle is to be used so that you know what size to look for -- smaller scooters with a reasonable turning circle are suitable for indoor use, while bigger and sturdier devices can manage most outdoor terrains. More importantly, depending on individual needs, the vehicle may require extra features such as a shopping basket, a canopy for weather protection, or a walking-stick holder. Other issues to keep in mind are how the mobility scooter is to be stored and its batteries recharged, where and how often it is to be serviced, and whether it can get onto public transport. Finally, always remind your loved one not to drink and drive!