Mobility scooters have acted as a welcome solution to individuals with mobility issues, giving them freedom and independence to navigate daily life. With the increasing demand for these devices, the market now offers a variety of options for acquiring a mobility scooter, including renting and buying. This article weighs up the pros and cons of each option to help you determine which is best for you.
RENTING
Pros:
- A good option if needed to support going on holiday, or if recovering from recent surgery, where the user requires the scooter for a short period of time.
- Useful too for those who are waiting on their vehicle to be repaired, but who still depend on mobility support in the meantime.
- Cost-effective, as little upfront investment required to rent a scooter, making it ideal for those on a very tight budget.
- Maximum flexibility available in terms of trying out different models without any commitment, ensuring you find a mobility scooter that best meets your needs.
- Try before you buy, meaning that users can defer buying a particular model until they’re certain it’s the right one for them.
- Access to the latest technology and functionality, as models available on a rented basis are often brand new.
- No maintenance costs or repair costs that ordinarily come from ownership.
Cons:
- Expensive option in the long-run, especially for users requiring the device for an extended period.
- Limited customisation available on rented models, which may not cater to specific user needs or preferences.
- Availability shortages can sometimes arise from rental companies during peak seasons or in areas with limited providers, which can potentially mean a lack of independence for users during such periods.
OWNING
Pros:
- Ideal option for those with long-term mobility challenges, so that independence and social connections can be maintained. Buying a powerchair is an investment which will improve your lifestyle.
- Cost-effective in the long run as the upfront investment is cheaper than ongoing rental fees over an extended period.
- Convenience and availability are major advantages, as owning a mobility scooter means it is always available, when needed, on a 24/7 basis.
- Customisation and personalisation opportunities from ownership that enables specific user needs and preferences to be met.
- Increased sense of responsibility from ownership that typically leads to higher care and maintenance of the vehicle.
- Resale value from owning the item, which means that there is likely to be some residual value if it is no longer needed or if you wish to upgrade your model.
Cons:
- Owning a mobility scooter involves a significant upfront investment, which may be a limiting factor for those on a very tight budget.
- Maintenance costs come with ownership, which means further costs when repairs or replacement parts are needed.
The key factors when evaluating whether renting or buying a mobility scooter is best for you is to establish how you intend to use the vehicle and for how long. Typically, if your mobility needs are long-term, then owning a powerchair will likely be most appropriate. And although renting may be the best option if on an extremely limited budget, the vast array of models to buy outright means that there are plenty of suitable options available for most budgets.