When you begin to struggle to walk far, or your balance is impaired and you feel nervous walking around outdoors, you should not feel that your activities are now restricted to indoors. Sometimes the right piece of equipment can offer you the confidence and additional safety you need to carry on doing the things that you enjoy. Mobility scooters offer plenty of benefits. You don't need a licence to drive one, some will fit in the boot of a car and you can even get a few that are suitable for more rugged terrains - so there is no reason to stop enjoying the outdoor life just because your mobility is becoming a difficulty.
I love the fact that CareCo offer different designs, allowing you to express your personality in your choice. With a variety of colours and styles, speeds and ranges, you can find a scooter that meets your unique needs. However, with variety can come confusion. On this page you'll find some things to consider as well as 5 of my favourite mobility scooters, to help you find the model that matches your needs.
Scooter insurance - Essential for your safety if you break down and the safety of the public should an accident occur.
Folding scooters - Avoid the physical strain of dismantling the scooter for storage or transportation by just collapsing it down.
Removable batteries - A good option if you don't have space to leave your entire scooter indoors for charging.
Storage boxes - An alternative to baskets, these let you keep your belongings stored out of sight and protected from the weather.
Smaller batteries are lighter but won't travel as far.
Are you looking for more stability or a smaller turning circle?
Make sure the scooter comfortably supports your weight.
Would you like to take your scooter on holiday with you?
How far do you need to travel on a single charge?
Will you be travelling on roads, or sticking to pavements and indoor areas?
Choosing a mobility scooter is a very personal decision, and I encourage everyone to visit a CareCo showroom to test drive a few different models if possible. Below are a few of my favourite mobility scooters in the range, from travel scooters to larger scooters that can be driven on the road.
If you're seeing a price 'with VAT relief', then this product qualifies as VAT exempt. Just enter the details of your disability or long-term illness/medical condition (or those of the person you are buying for) at the checkout and we'll apply the discount.
This product does not qualify for VAT relief.
The Stride Sport supports up to 21 stone in weight, so it's a great portable option for heavier users. And if you struggle with aches and pains, the suspension system will really help.
The addition of suspension means that, regardless of your weight, you will enjoy a more comfortable ride. Puncture proof tyres and a long range are also reassuring for those who use the scooter on more varied terrains.
Swivel the seat when mounting and dismounting to reduce painful twisting forces on your joints when transferring.
If you're seeing a price 'with VAT relief', then this product qualifies as VAT exempt. Just enter the details of your disability or long-term illness/medical condition (or those of the person you are buying for) at the checkout and we'll apply the discount.
This product does not qualify for VAT relief.
The Li-Tech is perfect if you find vibrations and surface changes uncomfortable. It's also a great model if you want to transport your scooter in a car.
With both front and rear suspension this scooter offers a great deal of comfort for those who use it on cobbled stones and uneven pavements. The height-adjustable swivel seat and armrests allow the scooter to be tailored to your own body dimensions for further comfort, and are particularly useful if you have difficulty moving from sitting to standing. And it's extremely lightweight, which is helpful if you regularly lift or transport the scooter in a vehicle.
As the scooter dismantles to 5 pieces, consider whether you will need assistance to assemble it again. Be sure to think about the distance you intend to travel to make sure the battery life is sufficient for your journeys.
If you're seeing a price 'with VAT relief', then this product qualifies as VAT exempt. Just enter the details of your disability or long-term illness/medical condition (or those of the person you are buying for) at the checkout and we'll apply the discount.
This product does not qualify for VAT relief.
The Daytona is a great choice if you want to travel longer distances on a single charge, or need more support from a captain's seat.
This scooter has a full-height backrest with head support, so those with a mild postural weakness may feel more secure. The backrest can recline to further assist those who struggle to stay central when sat totally upright. The wing mirrors allow users with limited head movements to have hazard awareness around them without the need to considerably adjust their position. With large, bold coloured buttons the dash is easy to read and operate.
It is significantly heavier than modular designs, so think about how you will manage this in transit. The indicator is operated via a rocker switch on the dash, so you should also consider your ability to operate the steering one handed and your dexterity to depress a rocker. The chassis is 9cm high which could make transfers a bit more difficult.
If you're seeing a price 'with VAT relief', then this product qualifies as VAT exempt. Just enter the details of your disability or long-term illness/medical condition (or those of the person you are buying for) at the checkout and we'll apply the discount.
This product does not qualify for VAT relief.
Those looking to get out and about in all weathers, or those who are sensitive to the cold or the sun, will appreciate the Kondor.
With the appearance of a car this scooter offers a level of luxury and sense of security above all others. If you do not wish for the weather or temperature to dictate your daily activities, then this scooter may help, offering solid shelter from the elements and on-board heating. If the cold affects your joints and worsens your pain, or you feel nervous of using a scooter, this is a great option to help you get out and about. With road legal speeds you can enjoy the freedom of a car once again.
With additional features come additional controls, so consider how able you feel to operate all of these. Although the footprint remains similar to most mainstream scooters, the height of this design means that you will have to think about your storage options.
If you're seeing a price 'with VAT relief', then this product qualifies as VAT exempt. Just enter the details of your disability or long-term illness/medical condition (or those of the person you are buying for) at the checkout and we'll apply the discount.
This product does not qualify for VAT relief.
Those with weakness to one hand or side will find the Trident a very useful scooter. It is also a great choice if you are looking to upgrade from using a walking aid indoors.
The 3-wheeled design reduces the turning circle of the scooter and makes it very versatile in small spaces, so if you need a powered mobility aid to use in tight spaces, whether in the home or in a store, this design may be worth considering. The central wheel gives you slightly more leg room, so if you are tall or have problems bending your knees, you may find this a comfortable seating position.
With no suspension or on-board lights this scooter should be considered for short journeys on even terrains in the daytime. If you are used to a four wheeled scooter or have balance issues, make sure you arrange a test drive of this scooter to ensure you are are comfortable with the unique setup.