Electromobile: Applications & Health Benefits

An electromobile is a small, multi-track, lightweight vehicle that helps people with disabilities cope with everyday life. The electromobile transports the vehicle operator and serves people with walking disabilities.

What is an electric scooter?

An electromobile up to six kilometers per hour is not subject to registration and can be used on sidewalks or roadways. An electromobile is a motorized wheelchair for the sick that weighs 300 kilograms, including batteries, and may not exceed a total mass of 500 kilograms. Its maximum width is 110 cm and its maximum speed is 15 km/h. A construction permit or an individual permit is required for its use. An electric scooter up to six kilometers per hour does not require a permit and can be used on sidewalks or roadways. With the help of the electric scooter, it is possible for people with a disability to travel further distances. Luggage or shopping can be carried on the floorboard or in the basket on the handlebars. Various models of the electric scooter also offer the option of additionally connecting a trailer, which can also be used to transport larger purchases or objects without any problems. To make it easier to get in, some models of the electric scooter have an individually adjustable swivel seat. Certain designs of electric scooters are easy to handle and transport by convenient folding.

Shapes, types and types

The electric scooter is equipped with direct steering. Thus, when driving an electric scooter, it is necessary for the driver to be able to move both arms fully. Some independence is also required when getting in and out of the electric scooter. The four-wheeled electric scooter resembles a quad bike that is electrically powered. Between the seat and the handlebars, the electric scooter has a step-through. In addition to the four-wheeled electric scooter, there is a choice of a three-wheeled electric scooter and a single-seater electric scooter, known as a trike.

Structure and mode of operation

An electric scooter gives freedom and support. It is specifically geared to the target group, because unlike in some circumstances a wheelchair user who can manage with a classic wheelchair, people who need an electromobile are often only able to move around in a wheelchair to a limited extent. However, an electromobile costs a lot and it should therefore be chosen wisely. With good advice and appropriate cost coverage by health insurance or long-term care insurance, it must be carefully weighed whether the benefits outweigh the financial outlay. When considering this, it should not be forgotten that the electric scooter, like any technical device, requires regular maintenance and a certain amount of care in order to be used safely. Especially for older persons, it is advisable to know a contact person in case of occurring problems or repairs. Care by a person who is willing to provide support even before the electric scooter is purchased makes this phase much easier for persons with walking disabilities or the elderly. However, an electric scooter is merely a means of transportation that cannot help in every area of life. It is, because of its size, usually also only usable outside the home. Models are priced according to how fast the scooter goes or how far its range is. An electric scooter equipped with a canopy that protects against rain and sun is more costly to purchase, but thus provides optimal weather protection.

Medical and health benefits

Particularly for seniors with increasing difficulties in mobility or walking ability, it is more difficult to manage short or longer distances as they age. However, people with walking disabilities also depend on some assistance for mobility. With the electric scooter, this mobility is guaranteed. Driving an electric scooter is a step towards greater independence or newly gained mobility. In addition, the independent mastering of distances promotes the self-confidence of affected persons. Being mobile means a higher quality of life and more self-responsibility. Affected persons re-enter social life to a greater extent and make contacts instead of staying predominantly within their own four walls because leaving the home is too burdensome. Due to the reduced ability to walk, it is important to remain mobile and the electric scooter is in many cases an optimal support for this.Any physical limitation may lead to a reduction in the independence experienced by those affected. Whether shopping, visiting the doctor or going for a ride: every trip with the electric scooter ensures a certain framework of independence and increases well-being and self-esteem. When choosing the right electric scooter, it is important to make sure that the person can get along well with the model. It is ideal to take a free test drive with the electric scooter and carefully consider whether the electric scooter meets the set requirements. The handling of a new electric scooter also needs to be practiced in order to feel comfortable in it and enjoy moving around. An electric scooter can cost between 1,000 euros and 7,000 euros, depending on the model. The final cost depends on the desired speed of the electric scooter, but also on the range that can be completed with the mobile vehicle. Another very decisive factor is the comfort of the chosen electric scooter. It is advisable to think calmly about one’s own ideas for the future electric scooter and to be aware of the requirements that the electric scooter must meet in order to remain a proven tool for coping with everyday life in the long term.