Why a Mobility Scooter Might Be the Best Decision for Me

Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) means constantly adjusting to changes in my body. One of the biggest struggles I’ve faced is walking long distances with MS. At first, I can manage, but the further I go, the harder it becomes. My legs feel heavier, and after a while, they just don’t want to lift. It’s frustrating, exhausting, and—if I’m being honest—kind of ridiculous how fast I go from doing fine to clutching onto the nearest support like my life depends on it.

That’s why I’m seriously considering making a major life decision: getting a mobility scooter. I never thought I’d be at this point, but the more I look into it, the more I realize it could make my life so much easier.

The Challenge of Walking Long Distances with MS

Walking short distances isn’t a problem, but the longer I go, the more my legs start staging a full-scale rebellion. It’s not pain—it’s mobility fatigue. It starts off fine, and then, before I know it, my legs feel like they’re made of cement. Just lifting my feet becomes a challenge, and suddenly, I’m in a slow-motion shuffle that looks like I’m trying to win an imaginary game of how little can I actually pick up my feet and still move forward?

Take a trip to Walmart, for example. I go in thinking, Yeah, I’ve got this!—and 20 minutes later, I’m gripping the cart for dear life, shuffling through the aisles like I’m in some kind of zombie movie. My wife, ever the supportive (and brutally honest) observer, will casually point out, “You know, your walking is getting worse, right?”—as if I hadn’t already noticed that my legs have officially decided they’re done for the day. But, naturally, I never admit to anything, because that’s just how I am.

The thing is, outings like this aren’t just physically exhausting—they’re mentally frustrating. Grocery shopping, running errands, or visiting places with a lot of walking turns into an exhausting test of endurance. I often have to stop, rest, and hope my legs will recover enough to make it back to the car.

A mobility scooter would completely change that. I wouldn’t have to plan every outing around my energy levels or wonder if I’m going to regret walking too far. I could just go, do what I need to do, and move on with my day—without feeling like I just ran a marathon. (Which I've actually done)

Admitting You Need a Mobility Aid is Tough—But Necessary

Let’s be real—admitting you need a mobility aid is hard. I understand firsthand how mentally challenging it is to come to terms with using something like a cane, let alone a wheelchair or scooter. It feels like a big, emotional step. It can even be a little embarrassing. (Spoiler alert: it’s really not embarrassing—get over it.)

Oh, geeze, that was my dad talking. All it needed was a "rub some dirt on it" and it'd be like he was here cheering me on.

At first, I kept telling myself, I don’t need one yet. I’ll just take breaks, lean on the cart, sit when I need to. But how long do I keep making excuses before I accept that walking long distances just isn’t practical for me anymore? And more importantly, why am I making my life harder than it needs to be?

A mobility scooter isn’t a sign of giving up—it’s a game changer. It’s the difference between struggling through an outing and actually enjoying it.

The Cost of Renting vs. Owning a Mobility Scooter

Another big reason I’m considering a scooter is traveling with MS. Every time we go on vacation—especially to places like Disney World—I have to rent one. Renting a mobility scooter isn’t super expensive, but it also isn't cheap. Rental fees add up fast, and there’s always the hassle of reserving a scooter in advance and hoping one is available.

Flying with a Mobility Scooter is Free and Easy

What really sealed the deal for me? Learning that it’s actually free to fly with a mobility scooter if it’s medically necessary. Airlines are required to transport mobility devices at no extra charge, and you can even ride your scooter right up to the gate before boarding. That means:

✅ No extra baggage fees

✅ No complicated paperwork

✅ No relying on expensive scooter rentals at my destination

Owning a travel-friendly mobility scooter would mean I can bring my own device, one that I’m comfortable with, and never have to worry about availability, cost, or unfamiliar controls.

Making Life Easier, Not Harder

I’ll be honest—I never thought I’d be at a point where I needed a mobility aid for MS. But at the same time, I can’t keep struggling through every outing, hoping my legs will hold out long enough.

I know it’s an adjustment. I know it’s a mental hurdle. But at the end of the day, why should I make life harder for myself? This isn’t about giving up—it’s about adapting so I can still do the things I enjoy without unnecessary frustration or exhaustion.

At this point, it just makes sense. If a mobility scooter means I can go to the store without worrying about how far I have to walk or enjoy a vacation without paying for overpriced rentals, then it’s worth considering.

FAQs About Mobility Scooters for MS

1. Do airlines allow mobility scooters on flights?

Yes! Flying with a mobility scooter is free if it’s medically necessary. Airlines transport them at no extra charge, and you can use your scooter right up to the gate.

2. Is it better to rent or own a mobility scooter?

If you travel often or need a scooter for regular outings, owning a mobility scooter can save money compared to renting one multiple times a year.

3. What is the best mobility scooter for travel?

Look for lightweight, foldable mobility scooters that fit airline regulations. Many models are designed for easy transport and storage.

4. Will a mobility scooter make daily errands easier?

Yes! A mobility scooter for everyday use helps navigate stores, parking lots, and outdoor spaces without worrying about fatigue.

Have You Switched to a Mobility Scooter? Let’s Talk!

If you’ve made the switch to using a mobility scooter for MS, I’d love to hear about your experience. Was it the right choice for you? Let’s talk about what it really means to make mobility work for us.