How to Buy a Wheelchair

Whether you need a wheelchair on a temporary basis while you heal from a broken hip or you want to buy one for daily use, you will find numerous options, styles and prices. Before you purchase one follow these basic steps to help you choose the best chair for your money. If you qualify, you might even get one free.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Determine what kind of chair you need. On a short-term basis, a manual chair that is made of lightweight materials, transports easily in the trunk of a car. Heavier models, complete with options for daily living: tilting, bathing and reclining are all available. Power chairs for those with greater mobility needs help people who otherwise can not get around.
2. Visit your doctor for a prescription. Although a wheelchair is not a medicine, certain health insurance policies and Medicare, cover the expense if you meet specific requirements. This includes wheelchairs that are not powered manually. (See Resources)
3. Contact local medical supply stores. Staff in these stores are trained in fitting a person with a wheelchair that is designed to suit their needs. Medical equipment suppliers will ask you a number of question about your lifestyle to help find the right one for you.
4. Read the newspaper or listen to local swap-shop-type radio programs for wheelchairs. If you don't mind a used chair, check here for ones no longer needed by their owners. You could get a great deal.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't feel pressured into purchasing a high-dollar power wheelchair from sales representatives who come to your home. There are many choices available, so don't fall for a high-pressured scheme, even if the company is well known. Ask the representative to leave the contract for you to study. If he won't, don't buy.