How to Use a Mobility Scooter
Mobility scooters are an innovative piece of home healthcare equipment that helps people with limited mobility or poor leg and foot health get around easily and live active, normal lives. People use mobility scooters to help them accomplish everyday tasks like trips to the grocery store without the risk of an injury or fall.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Charge the mobility scooter's battery after each use. The battery's longevity depends on its voltage and the size of your scooter, so check for this information in your owner's manual.
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2
Sit down on the scooter and position yourself comfortably before discharging the brake mechanism. This will keep the scooter from moving while you're positioning yourself on the seat.
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3
Place both feet on the scooter and both hands on the handlebars or wheel. It's unsafe to ride with your feet off the scooter, and you'll have much more control over the scooter if you steer it with both hands.
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4
Turn the scooter on using the ignition key or button. This feature will vary by scooter model; don't turn the scooter on until you're seated and ready to ride.
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5
Press the acceleration pedal or switch to move forward. Accelerate slowly and pick up speed as you go; trying to start off at a high speed will put unnecessary wear and tear on your scooter and could cause you to fall.
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6
Brake slowly by pressing down on the brake pedal or releasing the acceleration switch, depending on your scooter model. Leave a safe stopping distance between your scooter and nearby objects.
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7
Ride your scooter on flat, level surfaces. Don't try to go over curbs or down stairs on your mobility scooter. The scooter is not equipped with the shocks or brakes to safely maneuver in this way.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Maintain all safety recommendations for your scooter, such as weight capacity. Remember that any bags or parcels you carry on the scooter will add to its weight. Don't exceed the weight limit.
Be respectful of others when you ride your scooter in public places and maintain a safe distance from pedestrians.