Many Victorians are seeking to stay mobile and connected with their community by using mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs (collectively known as motorised mobility devices).
‘Each year almost 1,000 Australians are admitted to hospital for a possible mobility scooter-related injury‘[1]
It is important to remember that these devices should only be used by people who are unable to walk or have difficulty walking. And, as ‘therapeutic devices’ their use and selection should be guided by health professional advice.
These devices can support independence for people with limited walking ability, but there are important things to consider before you or a family member make a purchasing decision. For example:
- Is a motorised mobility device the right mobility aid for you?
- How do you choose a device that best suits your needs?
- How do you use the device effectively and safely?
- Do you need to access public transport?
- Where can you go to get more information and health professional assistance?
These questions and more are answered in VicRoads’ new resources, including the comprehensive ‘Guide to choosing and using mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs’ and a series of fact sheets.
Checklists step through the decision-making process. User needs are clarified, and family/carers can make informed decisions considering personal/road safety risks, especially for those who are no longer able to drive.
Search for Motorised Mobility Devices
https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/
- Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, McKenna K, Tovel A and Pointer S (2019). Mobility scooter-related injuries and deaths. Injury research and statistics series no. 121. Canberra, AIHW Available from: https://www.aihw.gov.au/getmedia/61abe614-d7b8-41c3-ba9a-0215f77a7c89/aihw-injcat-201.pdf.aspx?inline=true
