There are many models, sizes, brands and options when it comes to purchasing a wheelchair. What is the right wheelchair for you? Wheelchairs can range anywhere from $99 to thousands of dollars for a higher end chair. Some good starting questions that will be helpful in determining which wheelchair is the best choice are:
1- Do you need a wheelchair that will be pushed around by a caregiver or do you prefer a self propelled model?
2- What type of budget do you want to spend on a wheelchair?
3- Will you travel in a car with your wheelchair?
4- Does the wheelchair user need to use it all the time or once in awhile?
5- What is the weight capacity of the wheelchair?
6- What custom features or options that are needed?
7- How far can the power wheelchair go before the battery runs out?
8- What is the warranty on the wheelchair?
The first step is to consult with a physician or therapist to assess your needs and figure what are the features and options that are best suited for the individual.
For many people, Medicare and Insurance help cover the costs for purchasing medical equipment. In some instances, people who are not covered or may have a very difficult time getting compensated by insurance, will choose to pay out of pocket.
There are two main categories of wheelchairs: power wheelchairs or manual wheelchairs. Manual wheelchairs are usually lighter weight than electric wheelchairs. This makes it easier for someone to push the wheelchair user up a hill.
People who have very limited mobility, may want to choose a power wheelchair. Many power wheelchairs cannot fit in a trunk and are often used with wheelchair lifts or modified vehicles. For some, buying a folding wheelchair, which is more portable than many other types of wheelchairs is the best choice. Having a chair that the user can move themselves offers independence opposed to having someone push them around.
Some of the top brands of wheelchairs include Invacare, Pride, Drive, Medline, Sunrise, and Graham Fields. Some wheelchair models can be custom made to suit people for their specific and individual needs.
The next thing to figure out is the height and support needed for the individual.
Things to consider are seat size and height, upper extremity function and propulsion, as well as personal preference. There are also many accessories that go with purchasing a wheelchair such as wheelchair pouches and holders, bags, batteries, basket, and many other items as well.
One option which is an important choice is to decide on which leg rest and armrests to choose with a wheelchair. With adjustable armrests, people can adjust the armrests to different heights. Removable and Flip-Back armrests make it easier for the user to get in and out of a wheelchair. Armrests also come in two lengths: Full length and desk length. The latter is shorter and easier to get to.
When determining the right specs for the chair, people should also consider the dimensions of their home. It's important that one can travel through out one's house without being blocked by certain entrances or hallways.
Daniel Rosenstein Search engine marketer http://www.medicalsupply4u.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Daniel_U._Rosenstein |
By Daniel U. Rosenstein
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