Falls are now the leading cause of traumatic brain injury (TBI) throughout the developed world. Australians aged 65 years and over account for almost two-thirds of all TBI deaths in hospital – 1 in every 6 the result of a fall.
Mobility scooters are designed for people who can safely operate the device, but find it difficult to walk long distances due to injury, or disability, such as a brain injury. There are over 120,000 mobility scooter users Australia-wide, a number that is expected to reach 280,000 within 10 years due to Australia’s ageing population.
Brain Injury Australia and Blue Badge Insurance, Australia’s first specialist in mobility and independence insurance and a partner of Brain Injury Australia, offer the following advice for users of mobility scooters to ensure they stay safe and help prevent falls while using their equipment*:
*These safety tips are not a substitute for specific professional advice. Blue Badge Insurance recommends that you always speak to a health professional and personally try out mobility products to ensure its suitability before purchasing.
It is also important to consider insuring your mobility scooter to help protect you and your equipment. Blue Badge Insurance offers a Comprehensive Mobility Scooter Insurance policy designed specifically for mobility scooter users. Find out more by contacting Blue Badge on 1300 304 802 or visit Blue Badge’s website.
For more brain-injury related information, download the Guidelines for the prescription of a seated wheelchair or mobility scooter for people with a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury, a publication of the NSW Government.
Share this Post