Do you have a loved one with mobility issues who uses a manual wheelchair? If so, it might be a good idea to consider how a power wheelchair could make their life easier. Some individuals feel more independent and energized when they transition to power wheelchairs. The following points highlight key points to keep in mind as you explore this possibility.
Insurance Coverage
Before you begin shopping for a retail power chair, it is a good idea to see if your loved one's insurance company will cover a portion of the total cost. Some insurance companies may pay the full price for individuals who meet certain criteria. If the insurance provider does offer any type of coverage, it is important to determine if there are exclusions. For example, they might cover the costs for the wheelchair but not customizations or add-on features.
Warranties
The retail power wheelchair provider will be familiar with the warranties for the models they sell. It is important to understand warranties and what they cover. You also need to get a clear understanding of actions that could void the warranty. Some warranties require chairs to get routine servicing. If the wheelchair needs repairs and does not have a service record, it could void the warranty. There might also be specific parts that are covered for a certain length of time.
Battery Concerns
Power wheelchairs come with a rechargeable battery. It is a good idea to consider buying a backup battery from the retailer. This will ensure that your loved one does not get inconvenienced if they forget to charge their battery. The original battery will last a long time and have a warranty. However, having a backup battery ensures that if one battery stops working another one is accessible with minimal or no inconvenience.
Features
There are a variety of features that can make the power wheelchair more user-friendly for your loved one. They might benefit from having a removable basket. These wheelchairs are available in a variety of materials. Your loved one might not a model that is stain and moisture-resistant. Consider the activities they will do in their new wheelchair. Discuss these things with a salesperson. The sales rep can identify features that would be helpful.
A retail power wheelchair provider is a good resource to use to learn more about purchase options. They can help compare models and ensure your loved one chooses a wheelchair that fits their lifestyle and offers the most comfort. It might also be possible to test models or customize a wheelchair with specific features.
