There are many types of wheelchairs that provide different features, different comforts, for different people. Furthermore, you can add accessories to wheelchairs that will enhance its safety, ease of use, and comfort even further.
And there's much more to consider too. Here's a resource list you can use if you are buying a wheelchair. It will show you where to look so that you can make an informed decision. I want you to be an informed buyer so that you end up with exactly the right medical supply for you.
Just as we're all different, so are our needs.
1.First, Realize There Are Many Types of Wheelchairs
Many people new to buying a wheelchair don't realize that there are many types. The above link will take you to just 12 of them.
There are chairs for adults, children, and infants. There are chairs for all of the various needs they have. Here are some more categories you can dig into for better understanding...More »
2.Pediatric Wheelchair Choices
Pediatric wheelchairs have their own sizing but also their own stability features. Very small children and infants who need chairs often need them because they may have been born with cerebral palsey or some form of muscular dystrophy that makes it a challenge for them to sit upright.
So for children, beyond smaller sizing, there are needs for stability and safety. More »
3.Your Transport Wheelchair Buying Guide
Transport wheelchairs are chairs designed for ease when traveling. They are typically built lighter and easily collapsible. They look a bit "stripped down" in features when you look at them.
These are the chairs best designed for air travel, for example, where the larger more comfortable chair may be too cumbersome to take on and off of planes, trains, and buses. More »
4.Types of Wheelchair Accessories
Also available, are accessories that will make your wheelchair more comfortable like cushions, or weather garments to protect you from high winds and snow.
There are also safety features you can buy to prevent tipping and sliding, for example.
Other accessories include trays that you can attach to your chair to eat on, hold your drink on the go, or to set down a book or laptop computer.
Another major category of accessories includes storage. There are bags, sacks, pouches, and shelves that can attach in various places on and under the chair to store personal items, and even specialty medical equipment like an oxygen tank for example.More »
5.Youtube for Researching Wheelchairs
Don't forget about the power of Youtube for your research. Video demonstrations can be possibly the most informative as to how a chair can be used, how easy it is to use, and how easy it is to fold and unfold.More »
6.Where to Buy Wheelchairs
You can save money by searching for a wheelchair dealer. They exist! These are companies that specialize in just wheelchairs and mobility supplies, rather than "all types" of medical supplies and equipment.
Some companies, like Marc's Mobility, sell used manual and powered wheelchairs. They have done a good job of posting videos on Youtube so that you can see for yourself how the model you may want to buy performs.More »
7.How to Determine Proper Fit in a Wheelchair
Once you've narrowed down the type of wheelchair best suited for you, check out this link for detailed advice on how to ensure you're getting the right size chair.More »
8.How to Install a Wheelchair Ramp for Your Home
And finally, don't forget to prepare your home, and possibly your vehicle, for your new wheelchair. There will be accessories and equipment that will make your home and vehicle much more accommodating to your new piece of equipment.
For example, follow the above link to get familiar with the steps involved in buying and installing a wheelchair ramp for your home. More »