Extending Mobility

By Don Hovis

The ability to stay active and in control of one’s life is critical to a person’s sense of worth and happiness in today’s society.

For a variety of reasons -- heart disease, arthritis, stroke, emphysema, neuro-muscular problems, or just difficulty walking a long distance -- many people don’t find it easy to get out and about on their own.

The result is a lack of contact with the outside world -- a feeling of being cut off and out of touch with friends, neighbours, sometimes even family.

Without being independently mobile, many people experience depression, frustration and loneliness which often, over time, translates into isolation and fear of venturing out.

Today, many health care professionals and consultants have recognized the importance of promoting participation in community and social activities -- of encouraging people to maintain their independence and venture out to meet friends or continue doing their own shopping or banking.

Adults and children alike for whom mobility is a challenge are being introduced to scooters as a way of extending their mobility and keeping them active and in touch.

Invented approximately 20 years ago, the scooter was designed as a "fun" vehicle for people who want to increase their mobility and participate in an active lifestyle.

Early models were somewhat limited with old-fashioned wet lead-acid batteries, messy chain-powered drivetrains and front-wheel drive, which restricted traction.

A scooter of the 90s like the Genus Flyer is, of course, much more advanced and easy to use. Users enjoy much more freedom with this modern scooter, which features a number of unique benefits.

Features such as the lightweight, yet rugged, rust-free aluminum and self-aligning parts make the Flyer easy to assemble and transport -- there is no need for a lifter to get a Flyer in the trunk of a car.

The Flyer offers a safe, stable ride with no unnerving shake, rattle or roll. Digital controls and a compact turning radius means that users can negotiate sharp turns safely and easily at controlled speed. The seat is comfortable; it can slide forward and backward and is fully adjustable to give more leg room.

In short, today’s scooter helps individuals leave home, in comfort, in safety and with confidence. And that contributes to a healthier, more active lifestyle.

(Don Hovis is President of Genus Medical Inc.)