Preparing your mobility aid for spring

Now that spring is in the air, you probably want to start getting back outdoors with your mobility aid. If it’s been more dormant during the winter though, you should always do an equipment check before you start using it again.

Using our checklists below, find your equipment type and see our top tips for getting it safe and ready to use so you can get back to enjoying the outdoors.

If you have a powerchair, manual wheelchair, or mobility scooter, we recommend that you have your product fully serviced.

All mobility aids – a general checklist

1. Check for general wear and tear, and that all parts are working correctly
2. Make sure you are using the correct equipment for your current needs, especially if they have recently changed
3. For items like walking sticks, rollators, or walking frames, be sure to check for excess wear on any ferrules and wheels. If your aid has brakes then check these work effectively too
4. Clean any dust or dirt from the item – paying close attention in any moving parts, or electronics
5. Check that the maximum user weight is still appropriate
6. Make sure your mobility aid is still comfortable to use, and any adjustable parts are still correct for you

Mobility Scooters

1. Check the brakes, lights, and batteries are still working efficiently
2. Check the seat and handle heights are still correct and comfortable for you during use
3. Check that the wheels are still functional – and watch for signs of wear on any tyres
4. If relevant, is it road worthy, or safe to use on the pavement?
   • And if you have insurance - check it’s still valid (both in-date, and with the correct details)
   • Check the government page on using mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs for more information

Manual Wheelchairs

1. Check the tyre pressure, and tyre condition
2. Check that the quick release axle is lubricated using a suitable lubricant (not WD40)
3. Check wheel spoke condition
4. Check front castor tyre condition, as well as the wheel movement (this may need lubrication or hair removal from the axle), and swivel movement (again, this may need lubrication)
5. Check the condition of seat and back canvas – including making sure that fixing screws are tight
6. If you have footrests, make sure these are in the correct position/s, and that they’re working – for example if they are flip-up footrests
7. Clean the frame if it’s dusty or dirty

Powerchairs

1. Check the tyre pressure, and the condition of both the wheels and castors
2. Check the front/rear castor swivel motion – lubricate, and remove any materials like hair that may be caught in them
3. Check the motor brushes – mainly for residue build up. During use, the movement of the motor can keep the contact area free of residue, so after a period of no use you may need to remove residue
4. Check that the freewheel lever works - this may seize up, depending on its storage environment
5. Check the battery level. You may need to charge the battery for 24hrs if it's been left uncharged for long periods Sometimes the batteries won't charge properly if not charged for over a month, and you may need new ones. Our recommendation is to charge batteries overnight, once a week, if not being used
6. Check all the power functions work – for example power recline, tilt, lift, elevating leg rests, etc, as well as the lights, indicators, and horn
7. Check the joystick’s swing-away bracket moves correctly
8. Check your seat/backrest condition
9. Clean in general if it’s dusty or dirty

Further information

If you need further help or information about your mobility aid or our services at Complete Care Shop, you can contact our advice services for more information.