Photo from Unsplash

Originally Posted On: https://simslife.co.uk/things-to-consider-when-buying-a-wheelchair/

As a new wheelchair user, you may experience a lot of changes. You will not only have to learn how to move around in your chair but also start considering accessibility. If you are looking for the perfect wheelchair for you, our tips on things to consider when buying a wheelchair will help!

A lot of different aspects of your life may require new techniques. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at first. However, you’ll get the hang of things with some time and practice. This article will give you three things to consider as a new wheelchair user looking to purchase a wheelchair.

You can change or modify your chair as needed

The first thing to consider as a new wheelchair user is adjusting your chair to fit your needs. It’s essential to do some research on wheelchair types and options. You’ll want to consider what you’ll be using the chair for, as well as your comfort level. For example, what kind of armrests, footrests, and headrests do you want?

You may find that as you get used to wheelchair life, you’ll need to make more adjustments. This can be due to increased comfort or accommodating a different need.

For example, if you spend a lot of time in your wheelchair and get leg swelling, you may need to add leg lifts. If you’re a petite wheelchair user, you may need shorter armrests to be able to get close enough to the wheels to push yourself.

When considering purchasing a wheelchair, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that the correct model is selected. There are many factors to consider when choosing a wheelchair, such as weight, height, and level of mobility.

There are a lot of different kinds of wheelchairs for sale from various retailers, so a professional can help you understand your options and find the perfect fit.

Consider how you will get around in your wheelchair

It could be helpful to consider how you’d get around in your wheelchair. Depending on your mobility needs, you may need to make changes to your environment. If you need more space to get around, you may need to rearrange your home. This can include things like moving furniture or adding ramps to get in and out of the house.

You may also need to change your work environment, depending on what type of work you do. If you work in a small office space, you may need to request an accessible office to have more room to move around.

Plan Ahead for Accessible Places and Services

As a wheelchair user, you’ll want to plan ahead for accessible places and services. This can include everything from finding accessible transportation to booking accessible hotels. You may want to start by finding wheelchair-friendly businesses in your area.

There are a lot of great websites that can help you find these businesses. You may also want to join disability groups in your area. These groups are a great way to find out about local businesses that are accessible.

In addition to nearby businesses, you’ll also want to plan ahead for vacations, events, and other trips. You may want to plan your vacations around wheelchair-friendly destinations. Planning ahead for these types of things can make your life so much easier. It can also help you avoid feeling frustrated if you have to rearrange your plans last minute, especially if you’re travelling.

Final thoughts on considerations for buying a wheelchair

When buying a wheelchair it is important to keep in mind the user’s needs and lifestyle. There is a wide range of wheelchair types and features available on the market, so it is important to do your research to find the best option.

Do not be afraid to consult with a healthcare professional to get expert advice. With the right wheelchair, users can maintain their independence and improve their quality of life.