Needing help to get the right wheelchair

Gogo21

Hiya everyone...im looking for a bit of advice.. I'm needing to buy a wheelchair.. Something similar to a light weight quickie.. But I've never bought one..  I have a condition.. Elhers danlos and fibromyalgia which means I would be using it part time but it needs  ..to fit correctly And I would only be  able to self propelled for a short distance as my shoulder issues and fatigue would be issue if it was heavy..(I eventually would like to get a smart drive ) The companies obviously need the right measurement ... How do measure it correct.. What other things do I need to think about when purchasing a wheelchair .. Any help would be much appreciated

Pippa_Alumni

Hi @Gogo21, so that we can help you, it would be good to know whether you'll be attending a wheelchair assessment or buying a wheelchair privately?

Gogo21

Hiya . I will be buying private.. Thanks

Sam_Alumni

Hi @Gogo21

There are several ways to get a wheelchair.

Contact the Disabled Living Foundation for advice on what to consider when buying and information on suppliers. There are often local mobility centres where you can try out equipment. Think about the costs of maintaining the equipment and where you’ll store it when not in use. 

Gogo21

Thank you.. I will check it out.. X

atlas46

Hi Gogo

Where we live the Red Cross run a wheel chair loan scheme, try your local area, for same.

You loan the chair for as long as you need. They have numerous types.

They have technicians that ensure its top notch.

Just thinking you have a period of time to test chair, before buying your own, as I know they can be expensive.

Hope this helps.

Best wishes

atlas46

Gogo21

@atlas46.. Thank you very much.. I will look into it... I didn't know they did that.. X

atlas46

Hi Gogo

Got another idea!

Just read up on Elhers danios syndrome.

Do you get PIP, in particular enhanced mobility?

I have checked the price of new quickie wheelchairs, about £3,000.

Motability the charity, offer grants to buy wheelchairs, you can only try, tel: 01279 635 999.

I have a motability car, through motability operations and get a monthly magazine, that's how I know about the charity.

Give them a bell, I would be interested in what they say.

Best wishes

atlas46

PS
You can send me on the naughty steps if I am wrong!

Gogo21

@atlas46.. Yeah I have enhanced pip.. I will look in to it.. I can't drive.. I couldnt if wanted to now.. But Im kinda getting desperate to get my wheelchair now .. As Im stuck at home . My friend causes them freedom wheels.. X

Jean_OT

Hi @Gogo21

If you are considering investing a considerable amount of money on buying a wheelchair privately it may be worth investing a bit more to take some specialist independent advice.

Although I am not permitted to make personal recommendation I can say that I know Independent OT, Jo Southall, and have heard very positive things about the service that she offers: 

https://jboccupationaltherapy.co.uk/

You can search for other OT's in independent practice at:

https://www.rcotss-ip.org.uk/find

Best Wishes

Jean