When you buy a wheelchair online, you have many things to think about. You need to know what you need in a wheelchair. Think about your daily life and how you sit. People often make these mistakes:
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Not checking who sells the wheelchair or reading reviews
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Picking a wheelchair that is too heavy to use
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Not looking at the warranty details
To avoid getting a wheelchair that does not fit, always look at the product’s details before you buy. Every wheelchair is made for different needs, so pick one that fits your life.
Key Takeaways
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Think about what you do each day and how much you will use the wheelchair. Comfort matters if you use it a lot. It should last a long time.
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Look at the wheelchair's details for where you want to use it. You need different things for inside, outside, or rough ground.
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Always look at the warranty and help you get after buying. This helps your wheelchair stay safe and work well for a long time.
What to Think About Before Buying a Wheelchair
How Often and Why You Will Use It
Think about how much you will use your wheelchair. Some people use it every day. Others only need it for trips or special events. If you use it a lot, comfort is important. You also need it to last a long time. Make sure it works well for your daily life.
Tip: Experts say you should think about your own needs. This helps you stay comfortable and avoid getting hurt.
There are many types of wheelchairs. Some are for daily use. Others are for travel or sports. If you only need it for short trips, pick a lightweight one. If you need more support, choose one with extra padding and parts you can adjust.
Where and How You Will Use the Wheelchair
Where you use your wheelchair is very important. Will you use it inside, outside, or both? Each place needs different things.
|
Use Case |
Key Features to Think About |
|---|---|
|
Indoor |
Easy to turn, small size, fits in tight spaces |
|
Outdoor |
High off the ground, big wheels, steady on rough ground |
|
All-terrain |
Special wheelchairs or extras for bumpy places |
If you travel a lot, check if your wheelchair is allowed on planes. Some have loose parts, like batteries, that airlines may not allow. Tell the airline what you need before you fly. Airports can help people with disabilities, but you must ask before you go.
Help and Doing Things on Your Own
Think about how much help you need with your wheelchair. If you want to move by yourself, you might like an electric wheelchair. Electric wheelchairs let you go further without help. You do not need to use your arms as much. This is good if you cannot move your upper body well.
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Electric wheelchairs are good for people who want to travel far alone.
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Manual wheelchairs are best if you are strong and want to push yourself.
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Your choice depends on how much you want to do by yourself.
Think about who will help you with your wheelchair. If you have a carer or family member, you may have more choices.
Insurance and How Much You Can Spend
Wheelchair prices are very different. Manual wheelchairs can be cheap or expensive. Electric wheelchairs usually cost more. Check your insurance before you buy. Some plans, like Medicare or private health insurance, may pay for some of the cost if you follow their rules.
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Insurance can be hard to understand. Ask your provider what they will pay for.
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Even with insurance, you may need to pay some money yourself.
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Plan your budget so you can get a wheelchair that fits your needs and money.
Note: Always check the warranty and after-service help. This keeps your wheelchair safe and working well for a long time.
When you think about all these things, you can pick a wheelchair that fits your life. Make sure it has the right features and keeps you safe. Always look for safety parts and check if the wheelchair is good quality. This helps you avoid problems and move around more easily.
How to Choose a Wheelchair Online
When you want to pick a wheelchair, you need to look at many things. Think about your health, what you do each day, and how comfortable you want to be. This part will help you learn about the main types of wheelchairs. It will also show you comfort and support features, ways to make your wheelchair fit you, and what makes a wheelchair safe and simple to use.
Types of Wheelchairs
There are two main types you will see online: manual and electric. Manual wheelchairs need you or someone else to push them. Electric wheelchairs have a motor and you move them with a joystick or buttons. Both types can be used inside and outside. Some are light and easy to fold, which is good if you travel a lot.
Here is a table to help you compare manual and electric wheelchairs:
|
Feature/Aspect |
Manual Wheelchair |
Electric Wheelchair |
|---|---|---|
|
Operation |
Operated manually by user or caregiver |
Operated by electric motor |
|
Cost |
Generally cheaper, starting from £250 |
More expensive, starting from £2000 |
|
Weight |
Lighter and easier to transport |
Heavier and bulkier |
|
Customisation |
Highly customisable |
Highly customisable |
|
Indoor/Outdoor Use |
Suitable for both |
Suitable for both |
|
Effort Required |
Requires physical effort |
No effort required from user |
|
Manoeuvrability |
Less manoeuvrable in tight spaces |
Excellent manoeuvrability in tight spaces |
|
Off-road Capability |
Less suitable for off-road environments |
Can handle challenging terrains |
If you have a certain medical condition, you might need a special wheelchair. The table below shows some common conditions and the features you should look for:
|
Medical Condition |
Recommended Features |
|---|---|
|
Stroke Recovery |
One-arm drive mechanisms, Supportive armrests, Customised seating |
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Spinal Cord Injuries |
Reclining backrests, Pressure-relief cushions, Customisable seating positions |
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Cerebral Palsy |
Tilt-in-space functionality, Contoured seats, Specialised headrests and lateral supports |
|
Muscular Dystrophy |
Power-operated controls, Elevating leg rests, Expandable frames |
|
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) |
Hybrid designs, Ergonomic seating, Lightweight frames |
To choose the right wheelchair, match the type to your health and lifestyle.
Comfort and Support Features
Comfort is very important when you pick a wheelchair. If you sit in your wheelchair for many hours, you need good support. The right seat and back cushions help stop pain and pressure sores. Here are some comfort features you should look for:
|
Feature |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Hyperforma Cushion |
Supports the user throughout the day, reducing discomfort and pressure points. |
|
Back Cushion and Extended Seat Cushion |
Offers additional support, beneficial for tailored seating arrangements. |
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Lumbar Support |
Provides targeted lower back comfort, essential for long-term seating. |
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Head/Neck Rest |
Adjustable for optimum positioning, ensuring neck stability. |
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Memory Foam Cushion |
Moulds to the user’s body for added comfort and support over long periods. |
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The right footrest height keeps your body in line.
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If the footrest is too high or low, you may feel stiff or sore.
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Good foot support helps you feel better and more stable all day.
To make your wheelchair more comfortable, try these steps:
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Get a good seat cushion for support and to stop pressure sores.
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Make sure the backrest can be moved to help your posture.
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Add soft padding to the armrests and footrests to lower pressure.
Adjustability and Customisation
When you pick a wheelchair, check if you can change its parts to fit you. Adjustable features help you stay comfy as your needs change. You can change the seat width, backrest height, and axle position. This helps you move better and feel safer.
|
Feature |
Impact on User Comfort and Mobility |
|---|---|
|
Adjustable axle positions |
Modifies centre of gravity for improved stability and manoeuvrability. |
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Adjustable seat widths |
Ensures comfort as physical conditions change, reducing replacement needs. |
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Adjustable backrest heights |
Supports user comfort and adaptability over time. |
Online shops let you pick many options. You can choose the seat size, wheel type, armrest style, and even the colour. Some electric wheelchairs let you pick the drive type and seating system. The table below shows some choices:
|
Customisation Feature |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Seat Width and Depth |
Tailor the dimensions to fit individual needs. |
|
Wheel and Caster Selection |
Options include composite urethane, solid rubber, pneumatic, and semi-pneumatic wheels. |
|
Armrest Variety |
Choose from a wider range of armrests suitable for different activities and lifestyles. |
|
Frame Colour |
Select from various colours to personalise the wheelchair's appearance. |
|
Performance Components |
Includes rear wheels designed for different terrains and essential accessories like positioning straps and IV holders. |
|
Power Base Configuration |
Options for front-wheel, rear-wheel, and mid-wheel drive configurations. |
|
Seating Options |
Choices range from basic captain’s chairs to advanced power seating and positioning systems. |
|
Wheelchair Cushions |
Added comfort and pressure relief for users needing assistance with repositioning. |
|
|
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Weight, Size, and Portability
If you travel a lot or have little space, weight and size are important. Light and folding wheelchairs are easy to lift and fit in car boots. Some electric wheelchairs are made for travel, but they are often heavier.
A light aluminium frame makes it easy to lift your wheelchair. A small, foldable design helps you store it in tight spaces. Removable leg rests and arms that fold back give you more ways to use your chair. Some wheelchairs come with a bag for travel.
After-Sales Support
After-sales support is important when you buy a wheelchair online. Some companies give full help through local dealers. They can help you with repairs and advice. Others may only give basic help. Always check the return policy. Most shops let you return a wheelchair within 14 days if you have not used it. If the wheelchair is broken, you can get your money back within 30 days. Keep the wheelchair in its original condition if you want to send it back.
Tip: Healthcare experts say you should ask a professional for advice before you buy. A GP, physiotherapist, or occupational therapist can help you pick the right wheelchair. They can also help you get money or support.
If you want a wheelchair that fits your needs, always look for good after-sales support and expert advice. This will help you stay safe and comfortable every day.
When you buy a wheelchair online, pick features that fit your life. Studies show this helps you feel more independent and happier. Some people wish they had looked up more information before buying. Do not rush your choice. Ask experts for help and use trusted websites when you shop for a wheelchair online.
Groups like Wheelchair Support, Red Cross Wheelchair Hire, Shopmobility, and NHS England can help you when you buy a wheelchair online.
FAQ
What is the best way to measure for a wheelchair?
You should measure your hips, thighs, and lower legs while sitting. This helps you choose the right seat width, depth, and height for comfort.
Can you return a wheelchair bought online?
Most online shops let you return unused wheelchairs within 14 days. Always check the shop’s return policy before you buy.
Do you need a prescription to buy a wheelchair online?
You do not need a prescription to buy most wheelchairs online. However, you should ask a healthcare professional for advice before you choose.