Buying a wheelchair is an important decision with many factors to consider.
One factor that often ranks high on the priority list is wheelchair cost. Look no further!
We’re sharing all the information you need to get started on that cost-benefit analysis for your wheelchair purchase.
Read more about the different wheelchair types, understand why the cost differs, and learn tips and tricks to get the best deals.
Let’s get started!
How Much Does a Wheelchair Cost?
The price of wheelchairs can range from a hundred dollars to thousands of dollars or more, depending on an individual’s needs.
Some people may be looking for a permanent, everyday mobility solution, while others might need a wheelchair for short-term use or aid in mobility on long days out of the house.
Not everyone has the budget or need for an expensive wheelchair, so we recommend balancing the quality and cost when making your choice.
Let’s explore the different kinds of wheelchairs and how their benefits impact the cost.
Manual versus Electric Wheelchair
Your decision to choose either a manual or electric wheelchair would depend on the need and usage.
A manual wheelchair needs to be pushed from behind or moved by the chair user by pushing the handles on the wheels.
It can be an ideal choice for users under constant care by a nurse or loved one.
It’s also a popular choice of extremely independent users as one of their first mobility devices.
Worth considering is the distance you might need to travel with a manual wheelchair.
Uneven terrains and long distances could become tiring to navigate, but short distances and most surfaces may be manageable.
An electric wheelchair, or powerchair, can be a great mobility partner for people with limited upper-body mobility who desire more independence.
These wheelchairs are often a primary choice of people who love to travel and explore independently.
With advancements in design and technology, some mobility devices can now be summoned with a top on your phone screen.
The M01D is an innovative electric wheelchair that comes packed with powerful features and stylish looks.
Check out what the users have to say about their experience with TOUSDA’s products.
The cost of an electric wheelchair is higher than a manual wheelchair, but the comfort and independence make up for the cost difference.
Heavy-Duty versus Standard Manual Wheelchairs
Heavy-duty wheelchairs are designed to accommodate taller or wider adults with limited mobility.
Created to meet the needs of those weighing 300 lbs or more, these chairs are designed to be more durable.
The downside of these wheelchairs is that the heavier weight of these chairs makes them more difficult to transport in a vehicle.
On the bright side, however, most of these chairs are adjustable and built with anti-tip features, making them a great choice.
Standard wheelchairs, as the name suggests, are standard manual wheelchairs that can accommodate anyone weighing less than 300 lbs.
However, it may be a good idea for taller or wider adults to consider investing in a more comfortable heavy-duty chair.
A standard chair is often easier to transport in a vehicle due to its lightweight.
Since a heavy-duty manual wheelchair is made with heavier material, it tends to be more expensive than a standard wheelchair.
However, this decision should come down to your personal choice and comfort more than the price.
Deals and Promotions For Wheelchairs
Stay in the loop with special offers and promotions to get the most out of your purchase.
You can sign up for the TOUSDA promotion emails to receive valuable promo codes.
Savings on shipping – TOUSDA offers free shipping on most mobility products.
Depending on where you live, the shipping cost for a mobility device can add a couple of hundred dollars to your purchase cost.
Make sure you consider it when finalizing your decision.
Other Factors To Consider When Buying A Wheelchair
Insurance: Insurance can often cover a portion of your wheelchair purchase, depending on the device you choose.
Check-in with your insurance provider to make sure you understand the coverage you have.
Restocking fees: What if you do not like the product?
What if your mobility device is not as comfortable as you expected it to be?
Returning the device could mean a restocking fee charge.
Make sure you are aware of policies and restocking fees before you make a purchase.
At TOUSDA, we offer no restocking fees on our Rental Certified devices.
After-sale service: An important factor that can often get overlooked is the after-sale service, meaning once you own the product.
Get to know the company you are buying from – a test can be as simple as dropping them a message through social media.
For instance, if you send a message to the company’s Facebook account that you’re planning to purchase from, would they be able to answer your question and offer support?
Or would your message go unseen for days?
Things like this offer an insight into the customer service standards of an organization.
At TOUSDA, our customers come first.