Description
Shopping for a wheelchair is very time consuming and can easily wear down the most energetic individual into getting a chair that may not be perfect for them, but instead one that can be easily purchased and aquired. This is very bad because wheelchairs largely define our lifestyle and dictate how well we can manage our health. After a couple years wheelchairs do break down and may need major repair. Additionally, over a short time our needs and interests many change requiring one to shop for a different type or kind of wheelchair.
Most of us at MyHandyNet use wheelchairs and know how important it is to help make wheelchair shopping as easy as possible. We welcome any suggestions you may have!
Before you shop here are some questions to answer:
- What are your needs in a wheelchair? Really spend some good time thinking about this, because you may be stuck with your wheelchair for several years.
- How will your new wheelchair support and promote your health and the kind of lifestyle you expect to lead.
- Is your insurance paying for your wheelchair?
Get informed and learn about the process:
Based on your needs and interests:
- Talk with several of your friends in wheelchairs and use the MyHandyNet Blog or Forum to get feedback on what kind and type of wheelchair you should get.
With the information you have gained:
- Visit the major wheelchair manufacturers websites to educate yourself on the different types of wheelchairs they make.
For a quick view of a flagship product from each wheelchair manufacturing company:
- Go to "Products & Reviews" and see wheelchairs in "Power Wheelchairs", "Manual Wheelchairs", and "Sports".
For detailed listing of all products from each major wheelchair manufacturer:
At MyHandyNet read (or write) a review on any of the wheelchairs you have interest or experience with.
- Go to "Products & Reviews" and select an product category, then select a wheelchair or product and click on "Write a Review". Your opinion will provide your community a great service.
Once you have a good idea of why you need a particular kind and type of wheelchair meet with your Physical Therapist Occupational Therapist, or Doctor. Plan your presentation carefully. Use all the information and knowledge you've gained to help them understand and agree with your point of view to prescribe the exact wheelchair you ask for. Remember, with insurance companies, your PT, OT or Doctor has the final word on your wheelchair prescription.
Note: One unpleasant fact, insurance companies will influence your PT or Doctor to spend as little as possible for your wheelchair. So if your chair is expensive, be ready for a battle.
Next, find a Durable Medical Equipment (DME) supplier that is close to your home and who's reputation indicates they will quickly fix any problems with your chair that may arise.
Remember, the more information a shopper has, the better educated they are to make the choice that is right for them. No one else is going to do this but us and the people in our community.
- Submit a product to
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for the "Products & Reviews" page.
- Write about your chair on MHN Forum or Blog and review it in Products & Reviews.
- The more we come together and voice our opinion, the more power we have to change or world.
