Mobility scooters in the UK: public perception of their role

Abstract

The number of mobility scooter users is growing, a trend that is likely to continue in the context of the ageing society. Despite this, very little is known about their use, and the issues users are likely to encounter. This research draws upon a review of UK newspaper articles to explore the prevalence of articles relating to scooters, and ascertain the themes within them in order to begin to form theories about the use of scooters, and areas where further knowledge is required. It shows that the number of articles has been steadily increasing over time, and identifies a number of main themes relating to mobility scooter use. These included safety, theft and a range of ownership and use issues. There is a strong division of opinion, with users having very positive feelings about scooters and members of the public and professionals having more negative ones. In conclusion, additional research is needed to understand the issues scooter users experience, in particular in relation to safety, in order to ensure their potential to facilitate continued mobility is realised. In turn, this could lead to well-being benefits for the individual, and wider benefits for the public sector and the population more generally.