What are the Types of Wheelchairs?

What are the Types of Wheelchairs?

by | Feb 22, 2023 | Electric Wheelchairs, Mobility Aids

When you think about types of wheelchairs, you usually think about classic manual push wheelchairs and electric wheelchairs such as the famous Hoveround. You might not think about the other varieties of wheelchairs available that have different functions. It comes to mind when you or a loved one needs a wheelchair, making your decision on which to purchase more difficult. Believe it or not, in the world of mobility aids, wheelchairs have a large footprint. With advancements in modern medical science, it’s only a matter of time before we see a powered aquatic wheelchair. In the meantime, let’s take some time to explore the different types of wheelchairs available today. 

Manual

Manual wheelchairs are the basic and most commonly seen wheelchairs. They usually fold in from the sides and the back wheels are larger than the front wheels. They have handles at the top of the backrest for maneuvering the chair around. They also contain handrails on the rims of the rear wheels for user maneuvering. A manual brake is used to lock the back wheels of the wheelchair. Some models have a foot switch that activates a brake from underneath the chair. Manual wheelchairs usually weigh between 15-60 lbs. and can cost as low as $100. Depending on the make and model of the wheelchair, the weight capacity can vary and hold at least 200 lbs. Bariatric wheelchairs are available and hold a much higher weight limit, with some models able to hold over 600 lbs. The seats and armrests are usually made of vinyl or nylon material. Manual wheelchairs serve as the template on which other wheelchairs are based.

Types of Wheelchairs - Manual Wheelchair

Electric

Electric wheelchairs, also called power chairs and power wheelchairs, are becoming increasingly popular. When compared to manual wheelchairs, they offer improved comfort and convenience. Due to their electric components, electric wheelchairs do tend to weigh more than manual wheelchairs making them harder to transport without a van or a lift. Luckily, some brands of electric wheelchairs are foldable and lightweight, making them portable and ideal for traveling. Electric wheelchairs are more expensive, but a good lightweight electric power chair can be found for around $2,000.00. Similar to manual wheelchairs, electric models have one set of wheels larger than the others. Depending on the model, the front wheels may be larger than the rear wheels instead of the common opposite. Electric wheelchairs are battery-operated and maneuvered using a joystick mounted to the armrest of the users choosing. Batteries can usually be charged by plugging the charger directly into the battery or into the joystick. Electric wheelchairs also have a manual ouch feature that allows you to disengage the brakes when the chair is off and push it manually.

EasyGo Electric Wheelchair

Standing

Thanks to advancements in medical science and technology, standing wheelchairs are becoming more accessible to those who need them. Standing wheelchairs are perfect for those who suffer from limited mobility functions due to cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, and various head and spinal ailments. They usually use hydraulic lifting mechanisms to raise the chair into a standing position. Standing wheelchairs have all the necessary harnesses and seatbelts needed to hold the user in place when in a standing position. They can be manually operated with some models equipped with a manual mechanism used to manually raise the chair to a standing position. Some manual standing wheelchairs can be on the lighter side, as little as 100 lbs. Other models that use hydraulic and electric systems tend to be heavier and can weigh at least 200 lbs. Similar to other wheelchairs, the choice of manual or electric has a big impact on the price. Standing wheelchairs vary in price, but generally, they start around $10,000.00. It may seem pricey, but it is well worth it for anyone who needs a standing wheelchair to meet their mobility needs.

Wheelchair Types - Standing Wheelchair

Reclining

Reclining wheelchairs are worth mentioning as they are requested quite a bit. After all, if you need to rely on a wheelchair for mobility, it would be nice to have a reclining feature. Reclining wheelchairs are ideal for those who rely heavily on their wheelchairs for mobility. Sitting for long periods of time can put strain and pressure on your buttocks, hips, lower back, and tailbone which can affect your legs and upper back as well. Reclining wheelchairs allow the rider to recline and take pressure and weight off their hips and buttocks allowing them to relax and stretch. These wheelchairs are used more by the geriatric community who have to sit in their wheelchairs for long periods of time. Reclining wheelchairs are not to be confused with tilting wheelchairs; tilting wheelchairs tilt back but do not change your body posture. Since most reclining wheelchairs are not electric, they can be found for relatively cheap with some models priced as low as $300.00. Depending on the model, reclining wheelchairs can fold and can be as light as 40 lbs. with weight limits of up to 400 lbs.

Tilt Wheelchair

Bariatric

Bariatric wheelchairs are made for those who suffer from obesity or conditions that make weight loss a challenge. They have wider seats and can support up to and sometimes exceed a weight of 700 lbs. Most manual bariatric wheelchairs you will find are foldable and operate no different than a standard manual wheelchair. They are considered heavy duty making them able to accommodate users of almost any size. This type of wheelchair typically has fewer options than other types. There are some bariatric power chairs available but they are not ideal for traveling and may not fit in a car, even if disassembled. If someone exceeds the weight capacity of a heavy-duty electric wheelchair but they need a powered mobility aid, a scooter may be a good option. Scooters can support higher weight capacities and provide the same type of powered mobility you would get in an electric wheelchair but in a bigger package. Sometimes, scooters need to be transported on a lift or in a van due to their weight and design and are not ideal for flying.

Bariatric Wheelchair

Athletic

Athletic wheelchairs are made specifically for handicapped athletes to take part in wheelchair sports. Wheelchair sports include basketball, softball, hockey, tennis, and soccer among many others. Athletic wheels are manually driven and are constructed differently than normal manual wheelchairs. Athletic wheelchairs have rear wheels angled differently to allow for more stability. Depending on the sport, these wheelchairs may have different parts to offer different types of protection and support for different sports. The front wheels on athletic wheelchairs are usually smaller for better agility. While not identified as an athletic wheelchair, specially made hand bikes, or handcycles, are another form of mobility aid for anyone who wants to take part in an active lifestyle. Hand bikes are driven by hand and are great for bike riding and racing. They offer speed and stability allowing the user to even go off-road. Since they are used for sports, athletic wheelchairs are usually lighter in weight and can usually be easily folded. There are many options for reliable athletic wheelchairs and you can find them starting at around $1,000.00.

Athletic Wheelchair

EasyGo Power Chairs

EasyGo power chairs offer lightweight and portable mobile freedom in a foldable and travel-friendly design. They weigh between 51-56 lbs. and fold in less than 30 seconds. EasyGo folds to the size of a small suitcase and can easily be loaded into the trunk of just about any vehicle. Depending on the model, they hold a max weight between 250-264 lbs. These battery-operated and joystick-controlled power chairs operate on lithium-ion batteries that are FAA approved and can go on the plane with you. When fully charged, EasyGo power chairs can drive up to 15 miles at 3.7 MPH. If you are looking for powered mobility that is foldable and truly portable, look no further than EasyGo Mobility.

Conclusion

With such a large variety of wheelchairs available, it is good to know the differences when the time comes to make your purchase. Knowing the difference in function per wheelchair is important. You want to make sure the wheelchair being purchased fits the user’s needs and supports the functions of the user. We hope this article helps you on your journey to purchasing the right wheelchair. Thank you for choosing EasyGo Mobility.

15 Common Questions About Buying a Wheelchair

15 Common Questions About Buying a Wheelchair

by | Dec 19, 2022 | Electric Wheelchairs, Mobility Aids

When on your quest to find the perfect mobility aid, there will not be a shortage of questions. This is because buying a wheelchair can be a big investment. And, you’ll want to know everything you can before making any decisions. You will find yourself asking more questions than you thought you had! We have summarized some of the most important and most asked questions about buying a wheelchair. 

What?

What Are You Looking For in a Wheelchair? 

With so many different wheelchairs available, your decision can sometimes come down to the smaller details. Are you looking for something portable? Do you want a headrest? Do you need something lightweight? Some wheelchairs may provide everything you need but are too big and heavy to transport, while others are easier to transport but don’t hold enough weight. It’s good to do your research and compare as much as you can. This can help you figure out what you want in a wheelchair.   

What’s Your Price Range?

Cost is often the most important factor when buying a wheelchair. Some people can get a wheelchair through their insurance providers but some cannot. The wheelchair you want may be out of the insurance provider’s scope of coverage or not fully covered by insurance. Price should always be considered when making such a big investment as you want to make sure what you get is worth the money. Be on the lookout for sales and specials, especially around holidays. 

What if You Don’t Like Your Wheelchair?

Many people have been in this situation. You spend time researching and shopping around to find the right one only to get it and realize it’s not what it seemed, or you just don’t like it. Finding out the wheelchair you purchased isn’t right for you can be very frustrating. Luckily, most wheelchair companies offer a flexible return policy. There may be fees associated so make sure you read any company’s full return policy before committing to any purchases. 

Best Selling Wheelchair

Where?

Where Can You Get a Wheelchair?

Wheelchairs are available through multiple sources. You can get a wheelchair through an online wheelchair retailer, other online retailers such as Amazon, mobility aid stores and showrooms, second-hand stores and in some cases, through your medical insurance. Please check out our blog article titled “Where can you buy a wheelchair?” to learn more.

Where is it Made?

This is a very common question. Like most products offered in the U.S., most mobility aids are manufactured overseas. Many of these manufacturers are based in China and other surrounding Asian countries and territories. The fact of the matter is the U.S. does not have many mobility aid manufacturers and many materials needed to make such products would need to be imported. 

Where is it Shipped From?

This is another common question asked, as customers always want to know how fast they can get their wheelchair. These items are usually shipped from within the U.S. and can be received in as little as 3-5 business days. Here at EasyGo Mobility, we offer free shipping from within the U.S. and customers usually receive their chairs within 3-5 business days via UPS Ground. 

Where Can You Get it Serviced?

It is recommended that you contact the wheelchair or mobility company to report any issues with your mobility aid. If under warranty, you may be able to get your chair serviced or replaced at no additional cost. If you need any services or repairs done on your mobility aid, the company will usually request to service the product themselves, which can sometimes involve shipping it back. Some companies work with local repair technicians that are assigned to service wheelchairs in their local areas. Other companies that do not have field technicians to service mobility aids do their best to work with any local repair technicians per the customer’s request. This includes sending parts and providing guidance and support to technicians for servicing and repairs.

Buying a Wheelchair

When?

When Do I know it is Time For a Wheelchair?

Mobility aids are needed whenever mobility starts to become an issue for you. Certain life-changing diseases and injuries such as MS, cancer, amputation, stroke, and spinal injuries can cause a loss of mobility. Some people need mobility aids for a short time while they recover while others rely on them to get around daily. If you feel you may need a mobility aid due to an illness or injury, speak with your doctor as they may be able to recommend an option that will work best for your lifestyle. If your mobility is impeding daily life and enjoyment, then it may be time to think about buying a wheelchair.

When Can I Get One? 

As previously mentioned, how soon you can receive your wheelchair or mobility aid can depend on where the company is located and who they use as a shipping carrier. While most companies located in the U.S. have their stock housed here allowing them to offer shorter wait times for shipping, other companies may not have that option. Some companies may be located within the U.S. but ship from out of the country and shipping could take up to a few weeks. Make sure you clarify the shipping details and timeframes with the company you purchase from before committing to any purchases. 

Who?

Who Should You Speak To?

You can call any wheelchair company to find out everything you need to know. There is usually a phone number on their website that takes you to a live person. Customer service is usually great and they will usually have a pleasant talk with someone who has the right answers. Depending on the company, they may offer wheelchairs in your local area allowing you to speak with someone in person.

Planning for Retirement

How?

How Can I Get the Process Started?

Getting the process started is simple. You should know what you are looking for in a wheelchair and use this knowledge to research different models of wheelchairs from different companies. Once you have found a company you would like to work with that offers what you need, reach out to them via phone call or email. Sometimes, these companies will also offer a live chat where you can chat with a live person on their website.

How Can I Pay?

Buying a wheelchair can depend on the company you choose to buy from. This can cause your payment options to vary slightly. Just about all wheelchair and mobility aid retailers accept most major credit cards, debit cards and payments made via E-cheque/electronic payment/ACH payment. Financing can also be available and allows you to make your purchase and split your payment into monthly installments. Please be aware that if approved for financing, the lender may not cover the product’s full price. This can mean that you will have to pay the difference. Some wheelchair retailers will work with your insurance to provide a mobility aid. Wheelchair retailers sometimes offer insurance reimbursement that allows you to purchase a mobility aid and get reimbursed for the purchase by your insurance.

With that said, if you would like a mobility aid covered by your insurance or Medicare, you would have to speak with your doctor and file a claim with your insurance. Most insurance and Medicare providers have their providers which they utilize to provide products and services to their members at little to no cost. Please reach out to your doctor or insurance agent for further questions regarding insurance payments and coverage for mobility aids.

How Do You Know if You Have The Right Wheelchair For You?

You would know right away if you chose the right wheelchair for yourself. At the end of the day, buying a wheelchair comes down to personal preference. What may work for one person may not work for another. You should be comfortable in your wheelchair without making any modifications. You should also be able to operate your wheelchair with as little hassle as possible. Maneuvering should be hassle-free. If you purchased a portable foldable wheelchair, you should be able to fold it, unfold it, and travel with ease. As previously mentioned, if you are not satisfied with any product you purchase, reach out to the company to see what they can do for you. Buying a wheelchair should be enjoyable.

Why?

Why is The Brand Important?

The brand is important as it involves more than just the product being purchased. When you make a purchase, you are also purchasing the service and support for that product. You should be able to trust that the company stands behind their products and will offer guidance and support. Even after the purchase. In the past, customers have been taken advantage of by companies who don’t offer support after the sale. The mobility aid could suddenly break or malfunction requiring repair or replacement of parts from the manufacturer. What if that company or manufacturer decides they can’t help you or cannot be reached? It is recommended to research the company to ensure they will stand by their product and support you.

Why Choose EasyGo Mobility?

EasyGo Mobility has become a trusted name in the U.S. We have a clear and simple goal of offering affordable quality portable powered mobility. Our office and warehouse where we store and ship our stock are located in Tonawanda, NY. EasyGo Mobility offers a 30-day return policy along with a 3-year warranty. We offer 2 models of powered wheelchairs, and you can receive your order in 3-5 business days with free shipping. EasyGo offers foldable portable mobility that folds small enough to fit in your trunk and light enough to lift manually. They support up to 264 lbs. and fold in under 30 seconds. We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, and E-Cheque/ACH payments and offer to finance. To get started, simply call us at 1-833-709-3499 or visit www.easygomobility.com and chat with us. We can also be reached by email at cs@easygomobility.com. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this article. We hope some of these questions and answers help you with buying a wheelchair. Thank you for choosing EasyGo Mobility.

Where Can You Buy a Wheelchair?

Where Can You Buy a Wheelchair?

by | Dec 8, 2022 | Electric Wheelchairs

Wheelchairs are one of the most reliable and popular mobility aids available. Now, have you ever thought about where you could buy one if you need to? Luckily, you won’t have to go far or go through many hoops to get the right one you need, whether it’s for you or a loved one. Below is a list of where you can buy a wheelchair. 

Online Retailers

Online retailers that do not have physical store locations are the best options if you are buying online. Buying a wheelchair online, from retailers such as EasyGo Mobility, are generally less expensive to purchase from since there are no overhead costs associated with operating their business. These types of companies do not have showrooms to upkeep, generally keep stock in a warehouse connected to their offices, and only need minimal staff to run efficiently. In fact, some online retailers are said to offer the highest level of customer service to their customers before and after any purchases are made. 

There are plenty of reputable online mobility aid retailers so be sure to do your research. Some mobility aids offered online can also be found at various mobility dealers and showrooms nationwide, but buyers beware. You could end up paying more than you would online since the mobility aid dealer needs to collect a profit from the sale as well. You also may end up purchasing a used or discontinued item that is no longer supported by the manufacturer. Some online retailers also offer financing to make the wheelchairs they sell more affordable by splitting the full cost into monthly payments.

Best Selling Wheelchair

Amazon

These days, it seems like you can get anything and everything you need on Amazon. Amazon does offer a large variety of wheelchairs and other mobility aids from many different brands. While Amazon has become one of the most trusted names in online retail, you should have caution when shopping for mobility aids on Amazon and related sites. You don’t always know what you are getting. Some items may be cheap knockoffs of other popular brands. While others are nothing like what was advertised. Amazon customers also report that items are bigger or smaller than advertised. Sometimes, there is no clear and easy way to contact the seller to resolve this. This can cause these types of retailers to be not as trustworthy.

If you decide to shop on Amazon, make sure you are purchasing from a reputable brand or do your research on who is selling the item. You could also run into issues with shipping and receiving. Many sellers on Amazon are selling items from different countries and this can affect how long you wait for your purchase. Your purchase may have to go through Customs and Border Control and could take additional time to get to you. The more time your item is in transit, the more it is at risk of arriving to you damaged. This should also be considered when you are buying on Amazon. Try to find a seller who is in the U.S. and uses a trustworthy carrier to deliver your order.

Showrooms and Mobility Aid Stores

Showrooms and mobility aid retail stores are among the most popular spots to buy a wheelchair and other mobility aids. They usually have a large selection of different wheelchairs and mobility aids. They usually offer multiple brands and options that you can test out. Since purchasing a wheelchair is an investment, showrooms and stores offer a great opportunity to try out different wheelchairs and find the one that is best for you. You could end up leaving with the perfect wheelchair for you.

As mentioned previously, showrooms and mobility aid stores that carry products from other brands usually charge more. The reason for this is that the profit made on the wheelchair sale needs to be split among multiple parties. Profits are usually split between the mobility company that provided the chair to the store and the dealer who works for the showroom/store that sells the wheelchair. In addition, the sales rep could also be collecting a commission on the sale which can also drive up the price you end up paying. They could also upsell you an extended warranty to try and drive the price higher. These types of retailers also sell used and working older models of wheelchairs and mobility aids at low prices. However, used and older models of wheelchairs may not be covered under any warranties. They may be discontinued by the manufacturer and no longer supported or in some instances, the company or manufacturer has gone out of business, and no one can be reached. Showrooms and mobility aid stores are still great options and reputable sources for wheelchairs and mobility aids.

Climb Radius

At EasyGo Mobility, we strive to provide affordable and dependable mobility solutions. Join thousands of happy riders today shop now

Second-hand

Buying a wheelchair from a secondhand source is not without its pros and cons. Wheelchairs that are sold second-hand at thrift or second-hand shops, garage or yard sales and showrooms and mobility aid stores as previously mentioned. You may even get one from a friend, family member or coworker who has one that they no longer need. Sometimes, you may be able to find a working used wheelchair priced far cheaper than a new one. You can’t beat a great deal! If the wheelchair is made by a reputable company that is still in business, you may even be able to reach them for support. Most companies will still assist with questions about operating and getting new parts such as wheels and batteries. 

In some instances, when buying a wheelchair secondhand, you must consider that there are no guarantees. What you purchase may not continue to work as long as you need it to. The battery life may be nearing its end. And, if the manufacturer is no longer in business, you may not be able to get the right battery replacement. In addition, replacing wheelchair batteries is expensive. You also should consider that a used wheelchair may not work right. It could have damages caused by wear and tear and may be out of the scope of the warranty. Speaking of warranties, used wheelchairs usually don’t have one, because in most cases they have expired or are non-transferable.

Insurance

Medical insurance is trusted by millions to assist with the purchase of a wheelchair. Your medical insurance has direct communication with your doctor about your health and medical needs. This line of communication provides an efficient way for your PCP to advise your insurance on what you need. This helps your insurance decide which wheelchairs and mobility aids to offer. When insurance agrees to provide you with a wheelchair, they will either cover a portion of or the full cost of the wheelchair. Since your doctor provides details on the functionality you need in a wheelchair, insurance will offer you wheelchairs and mobility aids that will best fit your needs. 

Sometimes, the wheelchair or mobility aid you want may not get coverage by your insurance company. Depending on the wheelchair, your insurance may choose to deny the request. Or, only pay a small amount. This usually results in the customer paying for most of the chair. Insurance does not usually cover wheelchairs that are easily portable, foldable, and lightweight as they do not always offer everything the customer needs based on guidance from their doctor. However, certain companies, including online retailers, will work with your insurance on covering as much of the cost as possible. 

With all this considered, it is no wonder why so many people rely on their medical insurance for help with buying wheelchairs and mobility aids.

We Hope This Helps!

We hope the options we provided help you in your journey to find the perfect wheelchair for you. Wheelchairs can be a big investment and knowing where to buy them is key to getting the right one. Be sure to take all pros and cons into consideration and do as much research as needed to figure out which route you want to take. Also, take as much time as needed and do not let pesky sales reps rush you into a decision you could end up regretting. If you liked what you saw on our website, www.easygomobility.com, feel free to call 1-833-709-3499 to learn more. Thank you for choosing EasyGo Mobility!

The 8 Most Reputable Wheelchair Companies

The 8 Most Reputable Wheelchair Companies

by | Oct 26, 2022 | Electric Wheelchairs

Whether you are looking for your first or your 5th wheelchair, you want to ensure you are looking for the most reputable wheelchair companies. With so many different options online, it can be difficult to find companies that have truthful reviews and high-quality products. This is exactly why we have put together this list of the 8 most reputable wheelchair companies, in hopes of helping you choose the best companies to trust with your mobility.

 

In no particular order.

1. EasyGo Mobility

Our company, EasyGo Mobility is an industry leader in foldable and travel-friendly electric wheelchairs. EasyGo’s head office is located in Tonawanda, New York. Our CEO has been in the mobility aid business for over 17 years, where he realized there were a limited number of options of trustworthy and reputable companies on the market. Especially when you are looking at foldable electric wheelchairs. That’s how EasyGo was born! Currently, we have two different models of portable power chairs, the Elite and the Standard models. With the Elite being our best-selling model. Our wheelchairs are unique, due to their lightweight design, ability to fold into the size of a suitcase, and lithium-ion batteries making them safe to take onto an airplane. In addition, we offer a 3-year warranty on our wheelchairs.

EasyGo Folding Power Chair
Elite Folding Power Chair

2. Pride Mobility

Pride Mobility is one of the top powered mobility providers in the world, with over 25 years of experience. Their head office is in Beamsville, Ontario, Canada. They also do most of the manufacturing in the United States, which a lot of Americans enjoy. Pride Mobility offers a wide range of products, including lift chairs, scooters, and of course electric wheelchairs. Warranties range from 13 months to 5 years, depending on the part of the wheelchair and the model. Their most popular electric wheelchair model is the Pride Go Chair.

3. Golden Technologies

Next on our list of the most reputable wheelchair companies, we have Golden Technologies. Golden Technologies is well known for its compact electric wheelchairs like the Lite Rider Envy. Their headquarters is located in Old Forge, PA, and they started as a small family-owned and operated company that has bloomed into one of the largest and most reputable wheelchair companies in America.

4. Shoprider

If you have ever looked into purchasing an electric wheelchair, there is a good chance that you have heard of Shoprider. Shoprider is a leading manufacturer when it comes to large power wheelchairs. They do offer one wheelchair that is portable, the Smartie, but other than this model, most are very large although some may disassemble. If you’re curious about disassembling wheelchairs versus folding wheelchairs and which is better, check out this article. Shoprider’s headquarters is located in Torrance, CA. 

Most Reputable Wheelchair Companies

5. Drive Devilbiss

Drive Devilbiss, sometimes known as Drive Medical or just Drive, proclaims that they are leading the world with innovative healthcare solutions. They are another very popular brand in America. Drive provides a variety of medical equipment, including walkers, rollators, scooters, and power wheelchairs. Their most popular models of power wheelchairs are the Trident HD and Cirrus Plus HD. Again, these wheelchairs are pretty bulky so they may not be ideal if you want to put them in your vehicle. Their headquarters is located in Washington NY.

6. Sunrise Medical

Sunrise Medical is well-known for its mobility scooter brand, Fortress. Their wheelchairs are a little lesser known. They offer a variety of heavy-duty and tilting wheelchairs, which as you can imagine, cost a pretty penny. A lot of Americans that require tilting wheelchairs try to get coverage via insurance, disability programs, or finance them through payment plans. Their headquarters is located in Fresno, CA.

7. Hoveround

Next up on our list of the 8 most reputable wheelchair companies, we have Hoveround. Hoveround sells a variety of brands, including their very own Hoveround power wheelchair. Their brand of wheelchairs is more “medical” looking, with light grey seats, wheels, and parts of the frame. Hoveround offers wheelchairs with a variety of weight capacities. Their headquarters is located in Sarasota, Florida.

8. Invacare

Last but not least is Invacare. Invacare is a globally recognized brand specializing in a variety of medical equipment. Over the last few years, they have shifted their focus from mobility scooters to electric wheelchairs and other products. In fact, they discontinued all of their mobility scooters, which was quite shocking to their brand-loyal consumers. They offer three main wheelchairs. First, the AVIVA, a tilting wheelchair. The Storm Series is a bariatric wheelchair. And the TDX Series, which is a middle-of-the-line series. Their headquarters is located in Elyria, Ohio.

Staying Healthy As A Senior

Last Words

With so many wheelchair companies on the market, it can be very difficult to choose the most reputable wheelchair companies to trust. We hope that this list helps you narrow down your options. As always, if you have any questions about EasyGo Mobility, do not hesitate to reach out.

The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Wheelchair

The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Wheelchair

by | Sep 23, 2022 | Electric Wheelchairs, Mobility Aids

Buying a wheelchair is a big decision, whether it’s your first or fifth. You want to ensure that your new wheelchair checks all of your boxes while staying within your budget. And, with all of the options out there, it can seem overwhelming trying to decide where and how to purchase your wheelchair. Luckily for you, we have written this ultimate guide to buying a wheelchair to make your life a little easier.

Price

Let’s face it, the price of a wheelchair is one of the main factors that most people consider when buying a wheelchair. If you are choosing between two wheelchairs, the cheaper option is most likely the one you will choose. My best advice is to make a note of all of the features that are a need for you, and some that you may just want. Look for a wheelchair that checks all of the boxes that you need, and take your wants into consideration when it comes to price. 

Durability

As I alluded to before, wheelchairs are an investment. So, you want it to last for a few seasons. I recommend checking out the wheelchair’s reviews, whether it is on their website or on Google. This way, you can get an understanding of what their current clients are saying about their wheelchair. In addition, it’s important that you consider what the wheelchair was designed for. Wheelchairs that are meant for casual use would not bode well against gravel roads and hilly terrains every day.

Accessories

Another point that you should consider is if the wheelchair has accessories or can be compatible with accessories. If you are using this wheelchair on a daily basis, you’ll want comfort accessories, like an extra soft cushion. Or, if you’re planning on using this wheelchair to travel with, you might want to consider a travel bag or scratch-resistant pad to prevent damage to the chair and your vehicle when loading it.

Comfort

Of course, if you are spending a lot of time sitting, being comfortable is a must. A lot of companies offer extra support cushions to make users even more comfortable. As a result, wheelchair users can enjoy being out of the house for longer periods of time. You also want to ensure that the seat dimensions will fit your needs, and that you will have enough leg room to be comfortable. 

Style

Although style might not be on everyone’s checklist, it is on most. Unfortunately, some may not feel comfortable in their own skin while in a wheelchair. So, it can be important to consider what the wheelchair looks like prior to purchasing. Oftentimes we see interesting colours like red and black, to make a sleek look that everyone would enjoy. 

Travel-Friendly Features

Travel-friendly wheelchairs are becoming more and more popular among wheelchair users. That is because they are more convenient for those who are looking to travel. Whether it be loading it into your vehicle for daily tasks, or taking it on a plane, or even a cruise, travel-friendly features are important for a lot of users. Travel-friendly features include lithium-ion batteries, foldability, and lightweight frame to make it easy to pick up. Here is a video showing how easy travel-friendly wheelchairs can be.

Customer Support

When you are looking at buying a wheelchair, you want superb customer service. Live chat, phone support, and email support are all great examples of what a company should use to support their customers. In addition, it’s important to find a company that will still support you after your purchase. If you have any questions along the way, you don’t want to wait on hold before getting help. 

Specifications

I mentioned a bit about specifications under comfort, but specifications are so important that they deserve their own section. While seat width and footrest height are important, it doesn’t stop there. Other specifications that you should consider are ground clearance, tire size, and speed. These specifications will help your chair be more sturdy and durable for your daily needs. As an example, higher ground-to-foot clearance will mean that you can go over larger bumps and hills easier. But, some people don’t look at that specification.

At EasyGo Mobility, we strive to provide affordable and dependable mobility solutions. Join thousands of happy riders today shop now

Don’t…

In this day in age, you will see wheelchairs being sold on sites like Amazon or AliExpress. While these online stores can have great products, they are not the best place to buy a wheelchair. Oftentimes these retailers can have untrustworthy sellers who are just trying to make a quick buck, and not trying to help someone. When buying mobility equipment online, it’s best to steer clear of companies like these and go for a company that aims to help those in need. 

Final Words

As you know, there are a lot of considerations that you need to be aware of when making your decision. With all of the options there are on the market, it can be overwhelming learning all about certain features and companies while staying under your budget. If you’re looking for a highly durable, travel-friendly, and affordable wheelchair, make sure you take a look at EasyGo Power Chairs! If you have any questions along the way we are happy to help, don’t hesitate to reach out. 

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