One Common Question
“What should I do with my old mobility scooter?”
“How do I get rid of my used mobility aid?”
“Do you buy second-hand scooters or wheelchairs?”
Whether you’re upgrading, or simply have no use for it any more, knowing what to do with a mobility aid once you no longer have need of it can be difficult. One of the main questions outside of product enquiries that our administration team hears is how people can dispose of used mobility devices, and if Modern Mobility will buy them.
The NHS may take back any unwanted items they have supplied you with, but in most instances, or in the case of privately owned aids, it will be your responsibility solely to move them through the next phase of their lifecycle. Many mobility specialists, such as Modern Mobility, will not buy back most used mobility aids. This is only so we have greater control over the quantity and quality of used products we offer. Modern Mobility most often buys back used mobility scooters and powerchairs, and you can find out if we would buy yours by filling out our contact form.
As the aging population rises, the need for a definitive answer to what to do with your used mobility scooter/mobility aids is stronger than ever. Depending on your situation, there are a few ways to deal with your used mobility devices.
Before You Get Rid
Before making the decision to get rid of your used mobility aid, make absolutely certain that it might not be needed again later down the line, to avoid buying twice. If you inherited responsibility for the item from someone who has passed away or moved to somewhere that the item will no longer be needed (e.g. an assisted living facility, or more accessible home), then assess if you or someone else in your life may benefit from the item now or in the near future, and weigh up the pros and cons to saving the device or getting rid of it.
A vital first step when planning to dispose of a mobility aid or scooter is to make certain that you, or the person you are acting on behalf of, fully owns the equipment. Be sure that the item is not a rental or loan, and that there are no outstanding finance payments on it. Mobility scooters and Powerchairs obtained through Motability can only be returned through the scheme via the mobility specialist that the item came from.
Check if anyone that you know or in your community is in need of the type of item you are looking to get rid of. Whether you sell or give away the item, this option will save you the hassle of more labour-intensive disposal options.
Donation
You could reach out to a local charity to see if they will take receipt of a mobility aid. Look especially for charities that aim to help disabled or elderly people. Alternatively, charity shops may be happy to take the item off your hands to sell on as part of their fundraising efforts.
In either instance, they may require proof of ownership and a service history. You should be able to get this information from the original mobility specialist you bought the scooter/item from. If you are selling the item on behalf of another person, or you’re not the original owner/purchaser, see if the mobility aid has a sticker letting you know where it was bought from.
All of our larger Modern Mobility products have a logo sticker with a phone number and web address on for this reason.
Resale
Privately re-selling the mobility aid may not be the fastest way to find it a new home, but it is the best way to earn some return on the cost of buying the item. Sites such as Facebook Marketplace and eBay are tried-and-tested ways to resell your mobility aid online.
Consider joining online forums and Facebook groups for disabled people or carers in your area to see if there is any interest for your mobility aid there.
Trade/Swap
If you’re getting rid of your mobility aid in order to swap it for a different one to better suit your/the user’s evolving needs, you may be able to trade or swap the item with someone locally. Online groups and forums as mentioned previously are an excellent place to try and find potential matches for trading or swapping, but there are more hands-on options, too.
Putting a notice in local assisted accommodation or retirement community areas, or even on the notice boards of coffee shops, libraries, or other social spaces in your area can help drum up interest. Always seek permission before putting a notice up in a public space, and be mindful of what personal/contact information you include in any advertisements.
Recycle
The components of many mobility aids – including scooters – need to be disposed of with care. Metal, batteries, electrical components, and in some instances hard plastics, will need to be taken to the local recycling centre for proper disposal. Not only is this better for the environment than throwing the item in a bin or skip, it protects you from being fined for improper disposal.
Your local council may be able to arrange pick up of the item, especially if you are registered as having a disability or chronic health condition. Alternatively, private pick up services, a helpful friend or neighbor, or charities local to you may be the next best solution if taking the item to the recycling centre yourself is out of the question.
For advice about what your local recycling centre can accept and how to contact them for more information, check your local council website. We have linked below the corresponding websites for those wanting to recycle their mobility devices in areas local to our current shop locations:
Out With The Old, In With The New?
If you’re planning to get rid of a used mobility scooter or mobility aid in order to upgrade it, look no further than Modern Mobility! Our range of items can help you or your loved one unlock new levels of independence and enjoy the kind of freedom, comfort, and dignity everyone deserves.
Browse our range of Mobility Scooters, Powerchairs, Wheelchairs, and Living Aids, or get in touch if you have any questions – our helpful experts will be more than happy to guide you through your mobility journey
