Riding into the future : a snapshot of elderly mobility scooter riders and how they use their scooters

Aim The purpose of the study was to understand the typical mobility scooter rider, how they use their scooter and the role it plays in their lives. Method A 30-item purpose designed questionnaire was used to collect data on rider demographics and mobility status, reasons for purchasing and using a mobility scooter, patterns of scooter use, and the role it plays in the individual’s life. Riders aged 65 years and older were recruited from the wider Dunedin community. Results Thirty persons (15 males and 15 females) aged 65 to 90 years participated. Most experienced walking limitations with only 5 participants able to walk further than one block. The majority (80%) purchased their scooter to address their walking limitations. They had owned a scooter for a mean of 4.4 (range 1–19) years and most had purchased it privately without the input of a health professional. The majority of the group used their scooter 2–3 days per week. Conclusion This study provides a snapshot profile of mobility scooter riders and how they use their scooters to increase their mobility within the community. This information is useful for service providers and planners working towards providing services and infrastructures for the aging population.