Caught In-Between: Tensions Experienced By Community Mobility Users

The use of mobility scooters is becoming more common due to their effectiveness, social acceptability, and cost. A variety of benefits have been associated with scooter use, including increased mobility, social participation, confidence, and sense of independence; however, scooter users frequently encounter barriers in their communities. This study employed interpretive description to explore the everyday experiences of scooter users as they navigate the social and physical world. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 participants (10 men and 10 women), aged 40 to 86 years. Our analysis identified a single overarching theme, experiencing liminality, which referred to the ambiguous status of mobility scooters and their users. This ambiguity arose from the participants' a) ambulatory status and perceived cognitive capacity; b) difficulties fitting into the built environment; and c) experiences of negotiating the social environment. We discuss our findings in light of theorizing about liminality and the social model of disability. Points of Interest Although the use of mobility scooters is increasing and has been associated with multiple benefits, including improved sense of independence and quality of life, social and physical barriers to their use are still present. Many scooter users perceive themselves as being in an 'in-between' (i.e., transitional) state in regards to their ambulatory status and when trying to fit into built and social spaces. Using scooters facilitates mobility, but sometimes causes scooter users to be perceived in a negative manner. Scooter users face various issues when negotiating social spaces, including sharing spaces with pedestrians on the sidewalk and an unwelcoming atmosphere on public buses. The social model of disability is helpful in understanding how societal practices lead to barriers and a sense of exclusion in society.