A New Set Of Wheels

Based on some previous blog articles, a story about my use of a mobility scooter has appeared in the latest copy of the Amputees NSW journal, “Amputee Journal” (Edition 40, Vol 3, Spring 2025). A physical copy arrived in the mail today. When there is a link on the journal on their website, I’ll update. https://amputeesnsw.org.au/

---

A NEW SET OF WHEELS

Assistive Technology helps James move more

This month was a big month for James. He took delivery of his new mobility scooter and could not be more excited. James said that for him, “it’s not just a vehicle; it’s a ticket to freedom.”

As someone living with a below-the-knee amputation, he has learned to navigate the world in a way most people do not consider. While James has a prosthetic leg, there are several reasons why it is not always an option. Sometimes, he cannot wear it because of skin irritation, swelling, or open sores on his residual limb. These issues can make it incredibly painful or even impossible to fit into the socket. Other times, James said he is just too exhausted to manage the extra energy it takes to walk with a prosthetic, especially for longer distances.

When he cannot wear his prosthesis, James feels housebound, relying on others for even the simplest errands.

When we met, James shared that he is eligible for in-home support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), a program that provides funding to eligible Australians with a permanent and significant disability to help them live more independently.

While this support is a fantastic resource, James said he always valued his independence. The idea of being stuck at home, waiting for help to get to the shops or just to leave the house, just does not sit right with him.

He says, “I want to be able to go out and about on my own terms.”

This is where the mobility scooter becomes a game-changer. In the short term, it means James can get to the local shops or even the pub without relying on anyone. But, in the longer term, it offers a sustainable solution for his independence.

It is not just a temporary fix: it is a tool that allows James to maintain an active life, even as his mobility needs change. The freedom of hopping on the scooter and going for a spontaneous outing is something he hasn’t had in a long time.

PROVING THE NEED: THE OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST’S REPORT

Navigating the NDIS to get a mobility scooter is not as simple as just asking for one. Because a scooter is classified as ‘high cost assistive technology’, the NDIS requires a detailed occupational therapist (OT) report to prove it is a “reasonable and necessary” support.

James explained that his occupational therapist was fantastic and completed a thorough assessment, focusing on how his disability impacts daily life. The report needed to clearly justify why a scooter was the best solution for her client. It had to cover several key points, including:

Functional Capacity: The report had to explain how James’s amputation and the factors that prevent him from wearing a prosthetic limit his mobility and ability to get around within the community.

The Impact on James’ Goals: The OT needed to link the scooter directly to her client’s NDIS goals, such as increasing his community participation and gaining independence. James had to show that, without a scooter, he could not achieve these goals.

Safety and Suitability: The OT also had to assess James’ physical and cognitive ability to use the scooter safely. This involved looking at things like balance, judgement, and the ability to navigate different environments. They also had to recommend a specific model and explain why it was the most suitable option for her client’s needs and the kind of terrain he would be using it on.

James recalls fondly, “It wasn’t until I took my sister’s scooter for a spin late last year that I realised just how liberating it was to embrace the idea of a mobility scooter.” He added that it was not about giving up on driving, public transport or walking; it was about gaining back a part of his life. After James broke a hip, he hired one for a few weeks and was completely convinced.

In September, thanks to his NDIS support, James said his new scooter had arrived. “It is an incredible step forward—not just in terms of getting from A to B but in reclaiming my independence and maintaining mental and physical health.

James is looking forward to summer sun and daylight savings to explore new places.

---

Many thanks to Emma from Amputees NSW for doing an excellent job in bringing together this article. As a follow up, I’ll be making an appearance on ABC Radio’s “Nightlife” this coming Monday, October 6, along with an occupational therapist to explain the things you might consider when purchasing a mobility scooter.