A mobility scooter is a big investment, but one that can help aging parents maintain their independence for years to come. Here's how to pick the right one.

Did you know that 15% of the population is age 65 and older? What’s more, is that this number is expected to increase over the years.

What does this mean? It means that more and more people will be experiencing ailments such as arthritis and osteoporosis.

Depending on the severity, it can easily prevent them from getting around, which can limit their independence.

In cases like that, a mobility aid might be a good option—something like an electric scooter.

Planning on getting one for your loved one? Want to know how to pick the best mobility scooter? If so, you’re on the right page!

We’ll be sharing a bunch of tips so be sure to keep reading!

Not all scooters are the same. Given how expensive they can be, it's crucial that you pick the right one. Here are a few tips that might help:

Ask yourself—where will you be using the scooter? This can help determine the kind that you want to get. 

Take three-wheeled models for example—they allow you to maneuver around corners easily. This makes them ideal for indoor use. 

In contrast, four-wheeled scooters like TGA Breeze S4 mobility scooters are generally recommended for outdoor use. Why? They travel over rough terrain much better. They also have larger wheels, which means that the ride will be a lot smoother.

One of the first things that you want to check is the seat height. Once seated, your feet should be flat on the footrest; your knees should be bent 90 degrees.

You should also be able to reach the tiller without straining your back. When in doubt, visit a local dealer—they’ll be able to help you with the proper fit.

Do you plan on traveling by car a lot? Or perhaps by plane?

If so, you might want to get a mobility scooter that’s more on the portable side. Trust me, it will make your travels a whole lot easier!

For instance, some models are foldable; others you can disassemble during transit. Don't forget to consider the weight as well! 

You can check out some of the lightest models at onlytopreviews.com.

Make sure that the scooter you’re getting has safety features. The last thing you want is for your loved one to get hurt while riding it!

For example, some models feature anti-tip mechanisms. These provide the wheels with more stability when you’re going on an incline or making a sharp turn.

Another thing that you might want to consider is lights. Ideally, you want some on the front and rear of the scooter—that will make them more visible while they’re on the road.

And there we have it—four things to consider when you're shopping for the best mobility scooter. If anything, you don't want to rush when you're making your decision!

Do you have any other tips you'd like to share? Let us know in the comments below!