Hi everyone,
I was diagnosed with RA, Polymyalgia and ILD 3 years ago. My lung condition has become progressively worse and my mobility is severely affected. I have done the pulmonary rehab course but was limited due to my RA. I went shopping with my husband and had to keep stopping for rest and have now reached the point whereby I am reluctant to go anywhere. My husband has suggested I get a mobility scooter and I am considering this but I feel I am ‘giving in’ and defeated.
Mobility scooters are very good but you need to do your research. Pete has one which fits in the back of the car but it’s heavy to lift in and out. Some use a hoist or ramp but that all adds to the cost.
Don’t feel defeated and see if you can try one in a larger supermarket perhaps just to get a feel for one. Good luck. Xxx
It's not giving in if u can't walk far.its an aid.howsabout a wheelchair- u can use ad walking aid thn get pushed whn struggling x
I had two choices stay in or get a scooter and go out, I chose the scooter.
Put like that it’s a no brainer. Thank you.
You are not giving in, in fact you are taking control and saying no this won’t defeat me I still want to get out there and if a mobility scooter gives you that that’s a win!
Of course, you are right. I need to be have a more positive attitude, and I suppose I am giving in if I don’t get a scooter. I don’t really know why I’ve been so hesitant because as you say, getting one is a win win. Thank you
Hi Oscar,
I'm really sympathetic to your dilemma. I'm reluctant to go anywhere public as I have to stop and rest. I haven't been in a supermarket for years, but I do know that using the trolley as a way to rest can help if you are struggling.
Go for it. Research scooters so you can find one you're happy with. Then happy scootering.
Before I had a knee replacement op, I had a mobility scooter to help walk the dog and go round the shops. I tried one out through our local Shopmobility scheme first. I was in my late forties then, and when I drove past a more mature couple in town, the lady said, 'Well, if she's using one, maybe it's all right for me to use one too.'
Go for it. It stops you being tied to the house, and gets you places where you might not otherwise go. There are cheap ones you can take apart to put in the car and reassemble when you get there - you need to be reasonably fit to lift the battery component though. The heavier more expensive ones can go on the road but may need a type of cover for taking out in the rain. The heavier ones have a greater weight capacity and distance. You also need to consider storage and charging when not in use.
Hello there. I was in a wheelchair for two years with end stage lung disease. I also felt slightly defeated that I had to resort to being pushed around. 😒 But here's the thing. Having lung disease means we use far, far more energy just breathing compared to someone with healthy lungs. In fact we use more energy in every aspect of our lives, whether it be having a bath, washing up the dishes or even just changing our clothes. I think it is wise to get the scooter or else your life will be spent in a constant state of fatigue, unable to enjoy much because you are too exhausted to do so. I wish you well. 😊👋
Thank you so much for your response.
I was reluctant because I have been told to keep active and how can I be active if sat on a scooter? However your answer makes perfect sense and I think the scooter will enhance my quality of life.
Thank you.
I am new here - Extreme Anxiety over my various health conditions and managing them
Rheumatoid Vasculitis and Bronchiectasis and other lung problems
Copd and loss of appetite 
I seem to be lurching from pillar to post, Oxygen compressors advice
