Do you plan to hire a wheelchair? Have you decided on what features you want in a wheelchair? A wheelchair is an excellent mobility aid for people who can’t get around due to old age, recuperating after surgery, or other health issues. If you’re not going to need a wheelchair permanently, it makes much more sense to hire one.
There are plenty of wheelchair designs meant for different requirements. It’s important to pay attention to certain features to choose the best wheelchair suited to your needs. In this article, we’ll be sharing a quick list of features you should consider when choosing a wheelchair for hire. Keep reading to learn more!
What To Consider When Hiring A Wheelchair
There are various things you need to check before using a wheelchair. However, before that, you need to consider several factors before hiring a wheelchair. These factors include:
1. Intended Use
The first thing you have to consider before hiring a wheelchair is what you intended to use it for. For example, are you planning to use it indoors or outdoors? If you plan to use it indoors extensively, make sure the chair is the right size that allows you to navigate through indoor spaces. On the other hand, if you plan to use it outdoors, make sure it has puncture-resistant tyres and big wheels at the back.
2. Special Needs
Do you have special needs? If so, it’s recommended to discuss with your healthcare provider to find what kind of wheelchair best suits you, like a non-motorised wheelchair or a motorised wheelchair. Sometimes, manual wheelchairs are recommended to avoid muscle atrophy. Similarly, there are designs that support specific parts of the body such as stronger back support.
3. Short-Term Or Long-Term
You will find more options for long-term rentals as compared to short-term rentals. Generally, the cost of long-term rentals will turn out to be cheaper when you consider the per-day cost. However, not all places offering wheelchairs for hire offer short-term rentals. Most places require you to pay a minimum amount or keep the wheelchair for a minimum number of days.
4. Folding Or Non-Nolding
If you need to take the wheelchair with you in a car, you will need to fold it. If you have a smaller car, there are wheelchair models with quick-release wheels that allow you to get it inside safely and easily. A foldable wheelchair also makes sense in case you are short on space. You should also consider the weight of the wheelchair if you have to regularly take it in and out of the car.
5. Leg Elevation
If you are recovering from a leg or knee injury, you need to make sure that the chair has leg rests that can be adjusted for length and angle. These adjustable wheelchairs are designed to provide maximum comfort and support for the legs to offer you a comfortable user experience.
6. Weight Capacity
You will want to make sure the wheelchair is the appropriate weight limit. Pay attention to the width as well. Make sure it is wide or narrow enough to offer good support. Appropriate width is necessary to ensure maneuverability.
7. Price Transparency
In most cases, you will have to sign a contract when hiring a wheelchair. Make sure to go through the contract carefully. Read all the terms and conditions. You shouldn’t have any big surprises when you give it back. There have been instances where people have been charged excessive fees for not returning the chair on time and this usually happens because people do not read the terms carefully before hiring a wheelchair.
Final Thoughts
In summary, hiring a wheelchair offers a number of benefits over buying one straightaway. It saves you a lot of money and allows you to test different kinds of wheelchairs in case you need one permanently. You also don’t have to pay special attention to its maintenance. If the equipment isn’t working properly, you could always get a replacement. In short, hiring a wheelchair is perfect when you need it temporarily.
Get About Mobility is a 100% Australian-owned and operated business. We offer a wide range of mobility aids for the disabled and the elderly.
If you are looking to hire a wheelchair, call Get About Mobility today on 1300 168 902 or leave an enquiry and we will get back to you as soon as possible.