Getting a Used Wheelchair: An Affordable Alternative

Advantages and Disadvantages of a Used Wheelchair

A used wheelchair comes cheaper, that's the biggest advantage it offers. With so many styles and brands available, you can choose the appropriate wheelchair at the fraction of the cost of a brand-new wheelchair. However, there may be some drawbacks but if you know how to choose the right wheelchair, you get value for your money.

Used wheelchairs are published in the classifieds and oftentimes medical supply stores have some for disposal. Most of these are of the latest models and of quality material because previous owners have upgraded their wheelchairs or they don't have uses for their "old" wheelchairs. But don't get carried away by cheap wheelchairs. Take the time to check it out for wear and tear and obviously it should be strong enough to carry patient's weight.

If you are going to get a second-hand wheel chair, it is preferable that you choose the manual over the electrical wheeler. It is sturdier. You can find a range of used manual and electric wheelchairs in the internet and many of these are still in top condition.

Used Wheelchair Brands and Types

The market is teeming with different types of second-hand wheelchairs with different orientations. There are electric and manual wheelchairs, all-terrain wheelchairs, folding wheelchairs, transport wheelchairs, and mobility scooters. Wheelchairs are also sized for adults, children, and juniors.

A used wheelchair should be comfortable. It should have full length arms or desk length arms for those who use this for work or school, adjustable foot rest, and the right seat height-width-depth, and a reclining back seat. However all these features cannot be combined in a wheelchair; hence make a mental note of the patient's condition and use for the wheelchair whether it is a manual or an electric wheelchair.

There are basically two types of wheelchairs, the electric and the manual. Electric wheelchairs although lightweight can take on 400 lbs and is designed to support mobility for both indoors and outdoors. These are also compatible with carriers and wheelchair lifts. A good brand would be Pride,

The customized electric wheelchairs are usually custom-made for the user; if you come across one, check out if it is suited for the patient. There are also heavy-duty electric wheelchairs which of course are built to last years. It usually sports a rear wheel, options for the central wheel and good radius turning. Favorite brands are Pride, Invacare, Quickie, Sunrise Medical, Drive Medical, TiLite, and ROHO.
Each has great features and you can choose the best one suited for the patient's requirements.

How to Choose the Best Wheelchair

Comfort and function should be your criteria when choosing a used wheelchair. Personally check out the wheelchairs advertized in the classifieds. If you can, try it out to find how it runs or how smoothly it can be managed by the patient.