 |
 |
 |
||||
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
||||||
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
News From Care Medical
How to Select a Power Wheelchair and Mobility Device
by Matt Kneeland, CEO, Care Medical
For those with mobility challenges, a mobility device such as a wheelchair or scooter is a blessing. It allows them the independence they need to run their own lives. In the recent years mobility devices have become much less medical-looking and much more accepted by the general public as an acceptable alternative for getting around. This makes buying the right wheelchair or scooter a very important affair.
A Mobility device such as a power wheelchair or mobility scooter can enrich your life immeasurably if you suffer from a condition that makes getting around difficult. However, buying the right equipment for you from the appropriate dealer is of vital importance. This article looks at your options for buying wheelchairs and mobility scooter.
First, lets take a look at the types of mobility products you can buy.
The wheelchair is the traditional device for those with mobility problems. They are available in manual or powered versions. Manual devices are suitable for those with the good upper body strength needed to propel the device.
Power wheelchairs are ideal for those who lack this upper body strength. Powered by batteries, theyre steered with a joystick located on the armrest and are the most maneuverable powered device available. However a power wheelchair is not suitable for someone suffering from poor visual perception or coordination. They are, however, perfect to navigate areas of your home that have tight cornering and areas of your home that have restricted access.
Scooters blend the functionality of the wheelchair with the form of a motorcycle. Theyre steered with the handlebar, much like a very small motorcycle. Like power wheelchairs, theyre suitable for people lacking the stamina or arm/shoulder flexibility needed to use a manual wheelchair. Compared to wheelchairs, they offer fewer medical support options. So, theyre not suitable for those with problems supporting their heads or upper bodies. They are also not always appropriate for those that have mobility needs within their homes. Scooters tend to have a large turning radius making them difficult to use in the tight areas of your home.
Now, lets look at your buying options. You can buy new or second-hand. If you have insurance, buying new is the better choice as you have a better chance of getting one thats perfect for you and you are also reassured that it has a fresh set of batteries and brakes. You also have to consider the matter of warranties. Repairing a mobility device can be expensive and you may not find a dealer willing to repair a chair that he did not initially sell. If you do not have insurance, purchasing used through the local newspaper may work well for you if you have the chance to inspect the device prior to purchasing.
In purchasing a new powered mobility device, there is also the question of health insurance coverage. In general, Medicare and insurance policies cover powered mobility devices when the patient has mobility limitations within the home only. Conditions that often cause these limitations can include congestive heart failure, chronic lung disease, circulatory diseases and stroke. Keep in mind that if you are expecting your insurance to cover the item, there can be a fairly lengthy process for you to become qualified for coverage. For example, Medicare requires a face-to-face examination with your doctor specifically to evaluate you for the use of a powered mobility device. Have patience and ask lots of questions up front with your dealer.
You also have to consider matters of servicing and spare parts. You need to be confident that if you have a problem with your mobility device, you can get it fixed quickly and easily. So, it is always best to purchase a brand name device from a company that has a location in your town or immediate area. Most patients find it much more convenient to work with a small, locally-owned company rather than dealing with a person over the telephone may have to drop-ship the product to you. Some of the high quality brand names to look for include Pride, Jazzy, Invacare and Quickie.
Another option is to buy your mobility device at an online auction such as eBay. You may find bargains in the form of cheap power wheelchairs or scooters online, but such an important purchase really needs an inspection of the physical item. Unless you are familiar with the model being sold and you have no special requirements, you should stay away from auctions when buying a wheelchair or scooter.
Buying a power wheelchair or scooter is a major investment and it deserves considerable thought and research. You also need expert guidance which is not something youll get at an online auction, for example. In short, you need to buy from a recognized and reputable dealer with a track record of giving excellent advice and service to buyers. A great place to get a recommendation for a quality dealer would be to ask your doctor which company in your area has a reputation for good quality and high ethics.
Another item to consider is maintenance of your powered mobility device. Batteries should be changed every year and your wheelchair should be inspected by your local dealer. Your insurance company should cover all or part of this maintenance.
Whatever option you choose, you need to buy wisely. Your choice of mobility will have a pivotal impact on the quality of your life. So look for a supplier that specializes in mobility devices and has a good track record. Buying from a quality firm will ensure a trouble free future of mobility.
BaseCamp
|
Privacy
Policy Site created and powered by VGM Forbin. Copyright 2008 : Care Medical. All Rights Reserved. |