Mobility scooters designed to be safe and stable

Most mobility scooters travel at a speed of around 7km/h and are designed to be safe and stable medical devices for the elderly and people with disabilities, distributors here say, reported The Straits Times. 

Agis Mobility Director James Lee said, "Before we sell it to customers, we would advise them on safety precautions, such as slowing down at a kerb." Customers are also encouraged to try scooters before buying them, according to Falcon Mobility Managing Director Warren Chew. Both companies said the number of mobility scooter users here has been doubling year-on-year for some time. Mr. Chew estimates that there are currently 4,000 users.

Occupational therapists stress the need for proper assessment prior to buying a mobility scooter. Typically, they would look out for a client's motor functions, cognitive ability and eyesight before prescribing such devices, said Ms. Tay Hwee Lin, Principal Occupational Therapist at SPD, formerly known as the Society for the Physically Disabled.

A one-day orientation course to familiarise users is also being offered by the Handicaps Welfare Association. Users are guided by social workers through a training track and taught the skills and limitations of operating mobility scooters. With proper knowledge and training, many believe that these devices provide many benefits.