Buying a wheelchair

Fen1

THis is a rather ageist place to put this thread, but I hope someone may have a bit of experience in the matter. I need to buy a collapsible wheelchair to stick in the boot of the car. It needs to be cheap, but one that I can manouvere myself without help, so something with a 'smooth' action. ANy recommendations for brands, things to look out for, places to buy? Any help gratefully received.

lisyloo

Have you considered any local hospitals that are closing down near you?

My MIL got one for free that was otherwise going to be scrapped.
It's "well used" but you can't complain for free.

Fen1

Great tip. Hadn't thought of that. No hospitals closing down ( I hope), but I can give them a ring and see. No harm asking.

lisyloo

Can't see where you live but ours came from Keynsham near Bristol which was an "old persons" hospital.

Fen1

Bristol's a bit far for me. I'm sure I can find a geriatric suite nearby. Certainly feel geriatric at the mo :-(

Errata

Some local Age Concerns have wheelchairs they loan out and sometimes they have extra pre-loved ones for sale. In any case, AC might have some good info on wheelchairs and local and national suppliers.

EdInvestor

Plenty for sale here:

http://www.betterlifehealthcare.com/products.php?search_filter=0&catID=6&subID=346&pg=1&set_records_per_page=10000000&show_offers=0&search=0&search_text=&gclid=CO73mJy-jo0CFSgRGgod-g5opg

sleepymy

I've seen someone getting one after a request on freecycle. Be careful with cheaper ones, I've heard of one falling apart on someone recently, especially if you're carrying any extra weight. Your local OT department my be able to advise you on a suitable one and there are several online stores where you may save some money http://www.dlf.org.uk/public/suppliers/manual.html

Savvy_Sue

I would definitely 'try before you buy'! Manouevring (sp?) yourself isn't as simple as it may first appear, and there's a reason why wheelchair athletes wear gloves etc ...

I'm sure Ted has mentioned places where you can try a range of aids, without any pressure from salesmen.

noratw

Go to your doctor, convince them you need a wheelchair, get a referral to your local NHS wheelchair service. They will assess you and provide one suitable to your needs.
Otherwise there are charities that give grants.

JBEILBY

My mother need a wheelchair and through our GP she was referred to be assessed. The local council provided lots of aids such as a bath seat, heightened toilet seat and a hand rail outside the back door. We then had a visit for the wheelchair assessment. It was delivered in 3 weeks and was suitable for stowing in the back of the car. You are given a number to call should it need repairs. If however, we found the model they supplied was not suitable then there were grants towards the cost of buying a wheelchair. So please try with your GP first.

If you really want to buy your own then check and see if you have a Mobility Shop near you. They sell lots of items including wheelchairs. That way you can try before you buy. Our local one in Kingston also sells the cosyfeet shoes.