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How to Clean Your Wheelchair

How to Clean Your Wheelchair

by | Feb 7, 2023 | Electric Wheelchairs, How To's

Upkeep of your electric wheelchair or power chair is very important. And, it’s a key to keeping it in good condition. We all know that maintenance such as tightening the screws and bolts if they start to loosen up as well as applying grease/oil to any moving parts that may need to stay lubricated is essential.

But, a big part of upkeep that gets overlooked is cleaning your wheelchair. Believe it or not, your power chair needs to be cleaned regularly. Keeping your power chair clean can help extend the life of the chair and its components. And, it also keeps it looking nice and presentable. Especially if you’re taking it outdoors. Here are a few important tips and tricks so you can learn how to clean your wheelchair.

IMPORTANT NOTE – Please make sure your electric wheelchair/power chair is OFF before any cleaning takes place. It may be best to turn off the chair and fully remove the battery prior to cleaning to avoid potential electric shock, unintended movement of the chair, and damage to the electrical components of the chair. 

The Chair Itself – Cushions, Backrest, and Armrests

Similar to the seat cushions of your car or couch, your seat cushion and backrest should be cleaned regularly. This can prevent odor and will keep the cushion fresh and clean. It also can prevent dirt and bacteria from building up that can slowly eat away at the material. And, even wear down the fabric faster. Some cushions have a removable cover that you can throw into your washing machine. 

For models that don’t allow that, you’ll have to wipe it or scrub it clean with a damp cloth or per the care instructions that came with your power chair. Some power chairs that use rubber or vinyl seats must be cleaned using a damp cloth. Since the cushions are not machine washable, it is usually best to spray the cushion with some sort of scented fabric spray that fights off odors. And keeps the cushion smelling good. With that said, it is not recommended to spray a scented fabric spray on vinyl and rubber seats as the ingredients may cause damage to the material. The armrests are usually able to be wiped clean using a damp cloth.

Wheelchair Cushion

Wheels

Keeping the wheels clean is simple. Since the wheels on power chairs can get wet, you can clean them with warm water and light detergent. Like light dish soap, like Dawn. You can also clean the wheels with wipes that you would use to clean the surfaces in your car’s interior. With that said, be mindful of the ingredients in the cleaning products you use as some ingredients may be too harsh for certain materials. Some people prefer to wipe down their wheels with a damp cloth and nothing more. 

You can scrub the thread of the wheels with a soft or medium bristle brush. Like a household cleaning brush, a toothbrush, or even a paintbrush depending on how stiff the bristles are. Since wheels for power chairs are either flat-free rubber or pneumatic air-filled tires, we do not recommend using anything with metal bristles. Using metal bristles on solid rubber tires can cause scratches and damage to the wheels. Using metal bristles on pneumatic tires can puncture the wheel, which will cause it to go flat. If you plan to drive your chair right after cleaning your wheelchair wheels, we highly recommend ensuring the wheels are dry to prevent any sort of slipping. Use extreme caution when washing the wheels that are attached to the motor as the motor cannot get wet. We’ll talk more about motors later.

Frame

The frame of power chairs is easy to clean considering they are usually made of some kind of metal. Power chair frames are usually made of aluminum or magnesium or another type of metal. You should be able to simply wipe the frame clean with a damp cloth if it gets dirty. It is also recommended to dry the frame using a dry towel or cloth after cleaning it to prevent any discoloration. Or, in some cases, rust. Similar to the rest of the chair, try to avoid using any harsh chemicals when cleaning your wheelchair frame, as harsh chemicals can strip the finish off of the frame. If there is anything stuck to the frame that needs to be scrubbed off, such as mud, it is recommended to use a soft-bristled brush with light dish soap and warm water. Again, do not use any sort of metal bristles or strong harsh cleaners to scrub the frame as it will result in damage.

Elite Model Wheelchair

Controls / Joystick and Motor

Joysticks are easy to clean. You can usually just wipe them down. However, joysticks and the control panels are usually made with or covered in a soft rubber material that can be damaged by harsh chemicals. Joysticks and control panels should never be washed in water. This is because of the electrical components of the power chair. Therefore, it should never get soaked or submerged. The charging port, which is sometimes located on the joystick, will be damaged if it gets wet. And, this will prevent the chair from charging with that port. Keep all water away from the charging port or keep the rubber cover on it. If the charging port needs to be cleaned, compressed air is the best thing to use. 

The motor is one of the most important parts of any electric wheelchair or power chair. Because of this, it should be cleaned with extreme caution. Make sure no part of the motor gets wet. Otherwise, the chair will no longer work. Use extreme caution when you clean the wheels attached to the motors. Ensure no water gets in them. The easiest and best way to clean any debris from the inside of the motor is to spray it with compressed air. If there is too much debris within the motor to properly clean it, it is recommended that you contact the manufacturer or company from which you purchased your power chair for further guidance.

Cleaning your EasyGo

EasyGo power chairs are among the easiest power chairs to clean. The joystick is removable and you can wipe it clean with a damp cloth. The charging port located at the bottom of the joystick has a rubber cap that you can use when the chair is not charging. Especially when you are cleaning the joystick. If there is any debris in the charging port, use compressed air to clean it out. The frame of the EasyGo power chair can be wiped clean using a damp cloth and should be wiped dry to avoid water stains or discoloration. Wheels should be wiped clean or scrubbed using a small cleaning brush with warm water and light dish soap. If the rear wheels require scrubbing with water and soap, ensure the motor does not get wet or cover the motors to prevent any water from getting in. EasyGo power chairs also have a removable seat and backrest cover that are machine washable. The cover for the seat cushion can be removed from the cushion and is also machine washable. Because of this, EasyGo power chairs are very simple to keep clean and in good shape!

Conclusion

Electric wheelchairs are a big investment so you want to ensure you get the most out of your purchase. Keeping your wheelchair clean is just as important as all other maintenance. It will help extend the life of your chair and its components and will keep your chair looking good. It will also help with the performance of your chair. We hope these tips help you clean your wheelchair. Thank you for choosing EasyGo Mobility.

6 Tips for Driving an Electric Wheelchair

6 Tips for Driving an Electric Wheelchair

by | Jan 27, 2023 | How To's, Mobility Aids

When you receive a new electric wheelchair or power chair, the first thing you want to do is get in and go. You want to test out your new set of wheels and enjoy your restored mobile independence. As you ride your electric wheelchair, you will get accustomed to how it drives. Like, how it handles turns, and overall, how it maneuvers. There are many things to take into consideration when riding around in your new electric wheelchair. With some customer feedback and research, EasyGo Mobility has put together a list of 6 tips for driving an electric wheelchair.

1. General Considerations

The speed, turning radius, width, and length of your electric wheelchair should always be taken into consideration. These factors come into play when coming to a full stop or trying to complete any turns. We’ll get into these soon. 

Similar to driving a car, you should be checking all your blind spots. Especially the ground and your lower surroundings. Make sure you’re looking behind you before you back up. If you have a horn or indicator, use it. Even if no one is behind you, there may be somebody around the corner you don’t see who has no idea you’re about to back up. So, your horn is a great tool.

If you need to get up from your chair, fold up your footplate. This will allow you enough room in front of you to safely stand and move away from and around your chair. Also, ensure you have enough room around you if you need to fold or unfold your chair. Having a general idea of safety and driving will take you and your wheelchair a long way!

 

Driving an Electric Wheelchair

2. Consider the Length and Width of your Wheelchair

You can sometimes forget how long and wide your electric wheelchair is. While most electric wheelchairs have no issues going through standard doorways, it is still good to consider your angle when coming through a doorway. Make sure you are straight to avoid bumping. And, don’t get too close to the doorframe or you could end up bumping and hurting your hand.

Try to avoid making any turns until you have made sure the full length of your chair is through the doorway. And that there are no obstacles in your way. You also want to be aware of the width as you drive down narrow hallways. Knowing the length also helps when backing up.

As mentioned previously, it’s a good idea to look behind you as you back up. This will ensure you don’t back into anything or anyone. Overall, take the width and length of your electric wheelchair into consideration. And, make sure you have sufficient room to move all around your wheelchair. It can take some practice before you are spacially aware of your wheelchair’s size. So, don’t get discouraged if you have a few bumps along the way.

3. Understand Your Turning Radius

You must also consider your turning radius. Depending on the model of the wheelchair you have, the turning radius will be different. And, is just as important as anything else on this list. The turning radius defines how much space you need to make a turn. When turning in your chair, it is necessary to ensure there is sufficient room for your wheels, handles, armrests, footplate, basket, or anything that you have sticking out of your wheelchair. If you do not have enough room to turn, simply reverse and don’t go forward unless you know there is sufficient room and your path is clear of obstacles.

Wheelchair

4. Your Weight

Your weight also plays a factor in driving your chair. Depending on your electric wheelchair and regardless of the weight capacity, your weight can still affect the performance of your power chair. Your weight can affect how quickly the chair accelerates, the top speed, how quickly it reaches its top speed, and most importantly, how quickly it comes to a full stop once the brake engages. Weight also accelerates how fast wear and tear can occur. While you may be within weight capacity for your wheelchair, your weight could be putting additional strain on the motors shortening their life expectancy.

The same goes for the battery. If the battery needs to work harder to accommodate additional weight on the chair, it will lose power a little faster requiring it to be charged sooner. The tread on your wheels can also be affected by your weight. This is because extra weight will cause the tires to turn harder on the ground wearing them down more quickly. Ensure you keep your weight at capacity or less than the capacity supported by your wheelchair to ensure it lasts as long as possible. 

5. Brakes and Stopping Distance

Despite the stopping distance reported by the manufacturer, you should do your testing on the brakes. Find a safe spot where you can test out the brakes and stopping distance of your chair. This helps give you a good idea of how soon to let go of your joystick to allow sufficient time and space for a safe stop. Use a stopwatch and tape measure or ruler to measure how long it takes, both in time and distance, for your chair to stop. Do this at all speeds. If you feel are going too fast to stop before hitting something, you should try putting your chair into reverse. This stops the motor from accelerating the chair forward and can help stop your chair faster.

Climb Radius

6. Speed

The last tip for driving an electric wheelchair is to understand your speed. It is usually best to change the speed to your preference and depending on where you will be driving your chair. You may find that a lower speed works better indoors. Going at a lower speed indoors avoids obstacles and ensures you get around your home safely. It helps when entering a room or making a turn. Higher speeds are usually best outdoors or in larger areas where you have more room to move with fewer obstacles. As long as your ground clearance will allow it, higher speeds outdoors will also get you over small obstacles such as little cracks and bumps.

As previously mentioned, testing your speed also gives you a chance to test the brakes. See how long it takes to come to a full stop when you let go of the joystick and the brake engages. Doing this at all speeds will give you a great idea of when to stop wherever you are. 

Driving an EasyGo

EasyGo power chairs live up to the “Easy” in the name. Not only do they fold and unfold in under 30 seconds, but they also come fully assembled and ready to go right out of the box. They are lightweight enough to lift and load into your vehicle and have been reported by customers as being one of the easiest and most convenient power chairs to use. EasyGo power chairs are just over 2 ft wide, making them compact enough to easily drive through standard doorways. With a tight turning radius of 28.3 inches, EasyGo power chairs turn smoothly and effortlessly. They also have a horn button on the joystick panel that allows you to let everyone know you are coming through. Once the brake is engaged by letting go of the joystick, EasyGo power chairs come to a full stop within 39 inches or less of when you let go. EasyGo power chairs can travel up to 15 miles on a single battery charge at speeds up to 3.7 MPH, which is a little faster than it sounds. The Standard model power chair weighs 51 lbs. including the battery and holds a max weight of 250 lbs. The bestselling Elite model power chair weighs 56 lbs. with the battery and holds a max weight of 264 lbs. Driving an EasyGo power chair truly is easy.

Conclusion

Driving an electric wheelchair involves more than just getting in and going. There are many factors to consider in how to safely drive your electric wheelchair. Considering and being mindful of these factors as you drive will ensure safe trips with no accidents. Make sure you check all your surroundings, let people know that you are coming through, and ensure you are traveling at a safe speed where a sudden stop will not be a problem. We hope these tips help you become a better electric wheelchair driver. We wish you all safe driving and thank you for choosing EasyGo Mobility.

EasyGo vs Hoveround: Who Has the Superior Wheelchair?

EasyGo vs Hoveround: Who Has the Superior Wheelchair?

by | Jan 20, 2023 | Electric Wheelchairs, Mobility Aids

Mobility solution companies are everywhere. There are many companies out there offering mobility solutions that include stair lifts and bathroom aids. What if your problem is getting around and you just need a good power chair? Power chairs, often referred to as electric or powered wheelchairs, have become a hot commodity over the last 30 years. One company that is well-known companies is Hoveround.

Hoveround offers power chairs, along with other mobility devices. While EasyGo Mobility offers a unique type of power chair that can fold in half. EasyGo customers have found that EasyGo power chairs are much more convenient to use and more practical than those sold by Hoveround. Let’s take a dive into the many ways Hoveround and EasyGo are similar, and different, and which one offers the most for their users.

How Are They Alike?

EasyGo power chairs and Hoveround power chairs are both joystick-controlled battery-operated power chairs. Power chairs offered by both companies are known for their tight turning radius. This makes both of them ideal for indoor and outdoor use. They both offer cushioned seats and cushioned armrests with wide foot plates. Both EasyGo and Hoveround offer a manual brake release allowing the power chairs to be pushed manually. Despite both being considered power chairs and having a few similarities, Hoveround and EasyGo are different in many ways.

Hoveround

Hoveround has been a household name for almost 30 years. When you hear the name, it brings us back to the commercial showing two Hoveround users sitting in their chairs answering the narrator’s question, “Which power wheelchair got you to the Grand Canyon?”. They answer back “Hoveround!”.

Hoveround Electric Wheelchair

Hoveround Features

Hoveround offers 5 models of power chairs. Each power chair they offer holds a max weight of at least 300 lbs. In exchange for a higher weight capacity, each Hoveround chair weighs well over 150 lbs. This makes it less practical for travelling. Some models of Hoveround do fold but require some disassembly first. Depending on the model, the seat may be removable from its base, or it may fold down. Hoveround batteries tend to be on the larger and heavier side. And, offer up to a 15-mile driving range on a single charge, depending on the model.

Hoveround power chairs are front-wheel drive. This helps pull the chair over obstacles but sit low and does not offer much ground clearance. The driving wheels of Hoveround are pneumatic which can offer a smooth ride. However, pneumatic wheels can puncture and go flat. Hoveround power chairs can go on a plane but due to their size and weight, they would need to be checked in and stored with the cargo on the plane. 

Overall, while Hoveround power chairs offer a high weight capacity, thickly cushioned seats, and easy maneuverability, they are not very ideal for transport and travel. They can be heavy to lift, they do not offer much of a folding function, and can sometimes need to be disassembled to be transported. Not to mention that Hoverounds cost $3,000 to $5,000 on average.

EasyGo

EasyGo Mobility offers 2 models of power chairs, the Standard and the Elite. Both chairs operate using a joystick that is mounted on the armrest of the rider’s choice. The joystick is collapsible and is interchangeable between armrests. Both chairs are also foldable and do not need to be disassembled to fold or load into your vehicle. Simply fold in the anti-tipping wheels, fold down the backrest, pull the cord and pull the chair towards you to fold and lock. To unlock is just as easy; locate and pull the red and black lever to the left of the battery and open your chair until it clicks. Unfold your backrest and anti-tipping wheels and you’re all set to go!

EasyGo Folding Power Chair

EasyGo Features

EasyGo power chairs are among the lightest power chairs available in the U.S. The Standard power chair weighs 51 lbs. including the battery. The Elite power chair weighs 56 lbs. including the battery. When it comes to the weight capacity for EasyGo power chairs, the Standard holds a max weight of 250 lbs. while the Elite holds a max weight of 264 lbs. Both chairs can be folded and unfolded in less than 30 seconds. The lithium-ion battery of the EasyGo power chairs weighs only 6 lbs. and can be charged directly through the port in the back of the battery or through the port under the joystick. Just like the Hoveround, EasyGo batteries can also drive up to 15 miles on a single charge. Since the Standard and Elite power chairs use the same battery, the 15-mile driving range applies to both chairs. In addition, the battery is easily accessible under the seat at the front of the chair and can be quickly and easily removed and reinstalled in a matter of seconds. 

The wheels used by both models of EasyGo power chairs are solid flat-free wheels. They offer a smooth ride without the risk of a punctured or flat wheel. The Standard power chair drives on 10-inch rear driving wheels while the Elite sits a bit higher with 12-inch rear driving wheels. Both EasyGo chairs come standard with foldable anti-tipping wheels and a zipper storage pouch on the back of the seat. EasyGo power chairs are FAA and TSA approved and can be driven through the airport to your plane before being folded and stored at the front of the plane. This makes EasyGo power chairs ideal for travelling. EasyGo power chairs come fully assembled and require no additional assembly when received.

Conclusion

Both EasyGo and Hoveround offer great mobility solutions that will help give you your mobile independence back. When you consider the big differences between what each company has to offer, it makes choosing between them a bit easier depending on what you are looking for. Hoveround power chairs support a higher weight capacity than EasyGo. It is also a much heavier chair that makes transport difficult presenting a challenge when you want to be mobile outside of the house. EasyGo comes in a smaller package and does everything Hoveround can do with the addition of folding and unfolding for easy transport. They weigh significantly less making them easier to take wherever you want to go. If you want to gain back your mobility and the mobile independence to be able to go where you want to go without hassle, EasyGo is the way to go. Thank you for choosing EasyGo.

6 Wheelchair Charities You Need to Know

6 Wheelchair Charities You Need to Know

by | Jan 18, 2023 | Inspiration, Mobility Aids

Mobility issues affect people all around the world. Affording a wheelchair can be a challenge and some are left unable to live their life due to a lack of mobility. There are many charitable organizations that provide wheelchairs to adults and kids in need. A few of the most common include The Salvation Army, Catholic Charities and Goodwill. 

Each of these well-known organizations are household names. And, they have been giving back to communities all over the world for over 100 years. They have provided financial and medical resources in times of great need. While they do not specialize in donating mobility equipment, they have helped get much-needed mobility aids to many. The Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, and Goodwill all continue to provide help to communities worldwide. 

Of course, these are not the only charities that can help with mobility equipment. Wheelchair charities are available worldwide to help offer wheelchairs and mobility aids to those in need. Here are some wheelchair charities worth looking into. 

1. The Wheelchair Foundation

 

The Wheelchair Foundation

The Wheelchair Foundation is an international charitable foundation that creates awareness of the needs of people who are disabled. And, they deliver wheelchairs to anyone in need who cannot afford one. People with mobility challenges exist in every country and in every condition imaginable. The Wheelchair Foundation tailors to the geographic differences and rough conditions of many developing countries. A $200.00 donation will help purchase a new wheelchair for a person in need. And, deliver it to them. Or, you can even sponsor a container of up to 280 wheelchairs that will be delivered to disabled individuals in a country in need. With many programs, partners, and many ways to get involved, The Wheelchair Foundation has continued to give mobility back to people worldwide.

 

2. American Wheelchair Mission

American Wheelchair Mission

American Wheelchair Mission is part of the Global Wheelchair Mission. Their mission is to provide and deliver new wheelchairs and mobility aids to all physically disabled people who are unable to acquire assistance with mobility or obtain a mobility aid. In addition, American Wheelchair Mission is heavily focused on providing mobility assistance to those affected in the Americas. Similar to The Wheelchair Foundation, American Wheelchair Mission delivers a new wheelchair to a recipient. 

 

3. TKEN – The Kids Equipment Network

The Kids Equipment Network

The Kids Equipment Network provides specially adaptive mobility equipment to children with mobility issues. Their team of volunteers includes physical and occupational therapists, professionals in assistive technology, and representatives from different manufacturers. Monthly clinics are held where kids are measured and fitted for adaptive mobility aids. These mobility aids will help get them back into the world to enjoy their childhoods. Not to mention, TKEN has changed the lives of over 3,000 kids by donating over 5,000 pieces of adaptive mobility equipment. Their website contains forms that can be filled out and submitted by anyone who needs access to adaptive mobility equipment for kids. In addition, TKEN partners with organizations such as Little Wins and MDA (Muscular Dystrophy Association) to help provide services nationwide.

 

4. Direct Relief

Direct Relief Logo

Direct Relief provides humanitarian and disaster relief and prevention services globally. Through an extensive network of partners and volunteers, they provide relief, support, and preparation services. As well as medical resources to people and communities impacted by natural disasters. Plus, they also help lesser developed countries and communities with access to a variety of health care and medicine. With focuses on rare diseases, maternal health, HIV and AIDS and pediatric health just to name a few areas. Recently, Direct Relief has provided aid to those impacted by the extreme weather in California and has provided aid to Ukraine. With the large amount of work Direct Relief has done throughout the world, they understand the need for mobility aids and understand that not many who need them can afford them. In addition, they have donated wheelchairs to kids and adults around the world. 

5. LifeNets

 

LifeNets Logo

LifeNets is an international organization that promotes the self-sufficiency and well-being of disadvantaged people worldwide. They were started in the late 90s after the founder provided support and relief to people impacted by the nuclear disaster in Chernobyl and saw a need for additional support and resources. From there, LifeNets has grown into an international organization that continues to give back and make a global difference. LifeNets runs a wheelchair program that has provided wheelchairs to many people in need. In addition, their program accepts monetary donations and accepts wheelchairs for donations. This program is meant to help find a wheelchair that best serves an individual’s purposes. Plus, through a network of volunteers, relief groups and churches, LifeNets continues to provide resources and support globally through various programs which also include scholarships and habitat rebuilding.

 

6. Wheelchairs for Warriors

Wheelchairs for Warriors

Wheelchairs for Warriors provides custom-fit mobility solutions to veterans and first responders in the United States. The dangers that come with being in the military and in law enforcement are no secret. Not to mention, military and law enforcement personnel can get injured often. And, some injuries can result in a loss of mobility. With the help of many generous donations, Wheelchairs for Warriors gives back to these warriors who have put their lives on the line to protect and serve our country and communities. Because of this organization, one recipient, Marco De La Rosa, was able to compete in the Paralympics. If you or someone you know is a disabled veteran or first responder, Wheelchairs for Warriors may be able to help.

Conclusion

Giving mobile independence back to those who struggle with or lost their mobility leads to positive change and the return of a healthy lifestyle. It is unfortunate when cost and accessibility drive a wedge between people and their mobility. Thankfully many people, both adults and children, around the world have benefited from a wheelchair obtained or donated from one of many charitable organizations. In addition, these organizations continue to thrive and give back to communities all over the world with various support systems and resources. And, it’s great to know there is hope for those that need mobility aids but cannot obtain or afford assistance so easily. As always, thank you for reading and 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.

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