The guide to wheelchair buying 

There are many types of wheelchairs available for purchase, but finding the right one for you requires a bit of research. This is because your mobility needs are different from everyone else needing a wheelchair. Most importantly, you will need to consult with your doctor to find out what kind of wheelchair you will be purchasing, or if you need one at all.

 

Find out which kind of wheelchair you qualify for

Wheelchairs are categorized by physical needs. For instance, if you are having issues with your back, your doctor may advise you to go for a basic wheelchair. While this is good advice, you might need to cater for other needs you might have. For instance, if you have a caregiver who will be assisting you, you may need a wheelchair suited to be handled by a caregiver such as a transport wheelchair. If that is not the case, then you may need a wheelchair with wheels that you can manually propel by yourself. These are normally referred to as standard wheelchairs.

 

After making a decision on how much convenience you need from a wheelchair, you can use these 5 tips when you are buying one.

 

5 tips to consider when when purchasing a wheelchair

 

 

Cost of the wheelchair

There are various costs associated with wheelchairs. They include the initial purchase, followed by maintenance costs, and accessory purchases. Mostly, the cost is determined by the model and capability of the wheelchair. Wheelchair prices at Apha Surgical Supplies range from Ksh 11,000 to Ksh 120,000. For more information on on wheelchair purchases, you can view the various types and prices here

 

How long the wheelchair lasts

The average lifespan of any wheelchair is about 2 to 4 years. This depends on how much you use it, and where you use it from. Manual wheelchairs can take you up to 6 years. It is advisable to purchase a longer lasting wheelchair if you will need to use it more often. This will help you avoid any inconveniences along the way which may lead you to purchase another one earlier.

 

How long the batteries last

Electric wheelchairs are those with batteries . They come with the initial battery ready for use. A battery that is fully charged can last up to 8 hours on average. The power holding capabilities however reduce over time and you will need to replace the battery after about 2 or 3 years to maintain the wheelchair convenience.

 

Electric ones are convenient for you if you need to move around much faster or if your physical needs are better catered for by the convenience it brings.

 

You can view more information on the wheelchair here

How long is the buying process

Buying a wheelchair should not be hectic, or lengthy. It is advisable to buy from a local supplier rather than shipping it. This is because you are at an advantage of being able to physically view more options and inspect it to make the most appropriate choice. This will also prove to be a quick process. While shipping will take you up to a few months to it’s arrival, buying from a local supplier can take even a few hours.

 

The wheelchair size

Usually, the seat of a wheelchair dictates its size. Determining the width of the seat you need is what is most important. That is where your comfort and convenience lie. Typical seat sizes go from16 to 20 inches. Everything else, like the ability to fold, or the overall size of the wheelchair should come in second.

 

The best way to decide on size is to sit on the wheelchair to test usability and see if it suits you.

 

For more inquiries you might need, feel free to reach out via our contacts. We are on standby to make sure you get the wheelchair that suits your needs, and is right for your budget.