How to Get a Free Mobility Scooter or Rent It? [All Options Explained]

Published
10/27/2022

Mobility scooters are an excellent option for seniors to ease their traveling. This vehicle can help the elderly to get out of the house and explore the outer world. A mobility scooter can be used to visit your relatives who live far away. The mobility scooter cost ranges depending on what type is the most suitable for your needs. If you’re looking for an off-road scooter, then it will be more pricey than the one that works only on flat terrains.

There are various mobility scooter types and brands available on the market today. This article reveals all the nuts and bolts of this aid vehicle for seniors. Here, you’ll find out how much a mobility scooter costs. Check this mobility scooter guide to choose the very right one.

What Is a Mobility Scooter for?

A mobility scooter is an aid vehicle that helps you to move around. The scooter is similar but not the same vehicle as a wheelchair. An electric mobility scooter for seniors can have three or four wheels. It can be steered by using handlebars or a lever attached to it. You have to sit upright on your mobility scooter to travel for several hours in a row.

Mobility scooters help elderly people to live independently and improve their mobility. This vehicle makes people able to perform routine activities like making meals, bringing water, and more. It’s an excellent option to avoid seniors being housebound all the time. This may be dangerous to the elderly as they don’t exercise at all.

The Types of Mobility Scooter

There are three main types of mobility scooters: three-wheeler, four-wheeler, and travel mobility scooter.

Three-Wheeler

A three-wheeled mobility scooter for seniors is the most popular model. It can be used both inside and outside your home. Such mobility scooters are light in weight, which makes them easily transportable. Also, a three-wheeler is easier to operate than other types of scooters for adults. Such a vehicle doesn't require any special license or training (unlike four-wheelers).

Four-Wheeler

A four-wheeler features two front wheels that can swivel 360 degrees. This option allows you to turn on the spot flawlessly. So you can move your way around corners, and there’s no need to reverse first. Just go on driving forward instead.

Travel Mobility Scooter

A travel mobility scooter usually comes with a big, flat platform at the front. This makes it comfy for carrying all your handbags and suitcases when traveling. You can go on holiday or visit your relatives from another city with no stress. It’s more convenient to carry your things in your vehicle rather than use public transport with lots of bulky luggage.

How Much Does a Mobility Scooter Cost?

The average cost for a mobility scooter for seniors is around $1,500. However, you can find mobility scooters that cost as little as $500. This can be done by searching options online and considering a used mobility scooter for adults. That’s a great option if you need the vehicle from time to time or for a short period of time.

A mobility scooter insurance policy is a good thing to consider before you buy a new vehicle. So in case of an emergency (like theft), you would cover some bucks.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Mobility Scooter?

Instead of buying a new mobility scooter for adults, you can always rent one. Renting mobility scooters are a popular choice for people who need mobility support sporadically or only on certain occasions. That's a great option to get a solid aid vehicle without breaking your budget.

The average cost of renting a mobility scooter for seniors is around $50 a day. However, this price varies depending on the mobility store and your location (in some cities, it may be cheaper). The cost will also range depending on how long you’d like to rent it.

It’s always advisable to check out different mobility stores before choosing one. As they all have different prices and offer various options, such as free delivery or pick-up service, which can save you money if needed.

How to Get a Free Mobility Scooter?

There's a chance to get a free mobility scooter for seniors. There are several options you should consider to try your luck.

1.   Medicare

Medicare is a governmental project that offers a range of healthcare programs for the elderly. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers some medical equipment, including mobility scooters. The standard program covers 80% of the cost of a mobility scooter. If you can't afford the rest 20%, you can contact your local office and ask for help. The Medicare Savings Program will help you reimburse the costs.To start the process, contact your doctor and provide solid prooves you do need the mobility scooter.

2.   Insurance Company

Check your insurance company’s policies for providing a mobility scooter for free. Check the criteria in the contract you need to fit to so you're able to claim your request. Contact your doctor to get more details and ask for help to file all the necessary documents.

3.   Charities

Community charities may offer mobility scooters and wheelchairs for the elderly in need. Check for governmental and non-governmental organizations in your local area. Mind that such communities usually have long wait lists, but nevertheless, it's worth trying.

Conclusion

The average cost of a mobility scooter is $1,500, and the prices go up to $2,000 - $3,000. The price tag depends on your needs as well as how often it will be used. For those who need to use their mobility scooters for work or daily living purposes, we recommend getting an electric model. As they are more durable and provide better performance than gas-operated models do.

Electric mobility scooters have a range of up to 40 miles per charge. If that's not enough, then a hybrid model may be worth considering. It has a range of 60-80 miles per charge, with speeds reaching about 12 mph. We hope these tips will help you choose the best mobility scooter for seniors to provide them with solid care