To Scooter or Not to Scooter?

by Barbara Binland
(Australia)

So, as a senior citizen, you have finally hung up your car keys, for whatever reason. That is part of our aging journey, one day no longer being able to drive a motor car again.

What’s next? Well, the senior citizen, over-sixty, a golden oldie, can decide to purchase an electric mobility scooter. These provide both transportation and independence to anyone with limited mobility.

  • Wendy added the amazon link above: simply to show you the wide variety of scooters and prices! There are a couple of 2-seaters (for my folks!) Two are only $550ish... wow. Some fold up. Others look almost like motorcycles, with a senior seat. AND there is even a PINK Scooter! Just ideas...

    Scooters are a great invention, assisting their owners in performing everyday tasks, such as shopping, or running errands. Electric mobility scooters are the safest way of travelling currently in Australia, even safer than walking on a footpath!

    There is a variety of styles of scooters available, at a variety of prices. In Australia, the costs range from $1400 to $8000, depending on style, number of
    wheels, length of battery life, and manoeuvrability, as well as number of wheels. They have a warranty, you can have a home demonstration for a test drive, and can even have lessons!

    Here are some questions to consider before purchasing:

  • What and how far do you intend to travel?
  • Are you only planning to use your scooter locally, or do you wish to use it on trips?
  • Are there tight corners where you wish to travel?
  • Where will you store your scooter?
  • Do you wish to carry luggage or bags with you?
  • Have you considered the cost of insurance for your scooter?
  • Is your vision okay at normal walking speed?

    Overall , electric mobility scooters are easy to operate, travel at a modest speed, and are a safe and stable mode of transport, as they are designed low to the ground. If you have a disability, or issues with
    walking, a power scooter helps you get around and provides you with independence. With a variety of styles available, you can find one that suits your needs, and looks good too.

    Finally, here is a little verse about greys on scooters to lighten your day…..

    FREEWHEELING!

    What a lovely day,
    Look, here come the greys!
    Freewheeling today,
    On their scooters again….
    Skateboarding teens, yah!
    Look out, kids, you’re in the way!
    Greys toot and wave,
    Freewheeling today,
    There go the greys!
    Have a fun grey day!

    Cheers from one of the greys!

    • Comments for To Scooter or Not to Scooter?

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    It just won't fit!
    by: Elizabeth , West Virginia

    Must admit that at 84 my mobility is not as good as I had hoped. Have been thinking about a scooter for those destinations that would require more than a bit of walking.

    I still drive, but have discovered my Chevy crossovers rear door is too small to accommodate a lift for the scooter. Have talked to all sorts of techs and dealers, but cannot find a solution.

    Not going to purchase a new car, at my age. My car is paid for and in top shape. They suggest an outside lift, that requires a trailer hitch,so the scooter would have its own trailer. Not practical, as it would be out in the weather, car would not fit in a normal parking slot and it would make an easy target for a thief.

    Soooo, any Suggestions?

    I worked until I was 81 and being confined to the house because my stupid legs are a problem, may just drive me nuts!

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