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Whether you are purchasing one brand new or are shopping for used wheelchairs for sale, you can be easily spoiled for choice. For some, this may not be a bad thing because it gives them more options, but for others, it can be a tough decision because a wheelchair is not suitable for all places, and while it can give greater autonomy overall, it is still limited in what it can do.
When it comes to mobility aids, wheelchairs are among the most essential and widely used devices. Whether you require a wheelchair due to a temporary injury or a permanent disability, there is a wide range of options available to suit your specific needs. When browsing for new and used wheelchairs for sale, it’s important to consider the different types available on the market. Let’s explore some of the common types of wheelchairs you can find today.
Here, we will put forward the various types you can browse in new and used markets today.
Wheelchairs and their Types
There are several types of new and used wheelchairs, from those that provide different features to those that are used for specific purposes. Here are some of them:
Manual Wheelchairs
These are the most common type of wheelchairs and are propelled by the user or a caregiver. They come in a variety of styles, including lightweight, folding, rigid, and sports wheelchairs. These wheelchairs are most common because they are not wholly designed for extended periods of use. For example, if a patient has had surgery or a medical operation where they need to rest, they will often be transported via a basic, manual wheelchair.
Power Wheelchairs
These are electric wheelchairs that are powered by a battery and can be controlled by the user. They can still be controlled by a caregiver, but the primary use of a power wheelchair is that it gives the user greater autonomy and independence. It is especially handy for patients that lack the upper body strength to move as they would have to with a manual wheelchair.
However, this also makes them expensive, meaning that anyone wanting to buy a power wheelchair might as well look for used wheelchairs for sale because the brand-new options would be quite expensive. Even if you have health insurance, you need to ensure you have authorization for those specific types of wheelchairs beforehand as well.
Lightweight Wheelchairs
Not everyone has to use a wheelchair all the time, but even if they do, wheelchairs are large, bulky, and can be difficult to carry around. This can make travel difficult, whether you are going alone with your wheelchair or are going with someone who needs it—though the former is not recommended!
Whatever the case may be, lightweight and ultra-lightweight wheelchairs are the solution. They are designed to be less weighty (as the name suggests) and are also designed to be foldable, making them easier to travel.
This does make lightweight wheelchairs, especially manual ones, less expensive, as they generally have fewer components in them. However, that is mostly for manual wheelchairs you can find at a drugstore. If you want a powered option, expect to pay somewhere around $1000 USD for a worthwhile product. If that is outside your range, consider a used wheelchair for sale instead.
Heavy-Duty Wheelchairs
In contrast to their lighter counterparts, heavy-duty wheelchairs are designed to have a considerable weight limit, capable of supporting upwards of 300 pounds. They are also called bariatric wheelchairs, and have a wider seat and a higher weight capacity than standard wheelchairs.
Of course, being made from much stronger material means a higher cost, but similar to lightweight wheelchairs, manual options are cheaper, whereas a brand new, electric heavy wheelchair can cost you around $2,000 USD. There is still a used market available for you to peruse through, though.
Purpose-Specific Wheelchairs
As mentioned before, some wheelchairs are designed for specific people, whereas others are designed for specific purposes. We have gone through the specific people category, but here, we look at the purpose-built wheelchairs that you can purchase, whether you browse used wheelchairs for sale or can shell out the full price.
Pediatric Wheelchairs
These wheelchairs are specially designed for children and come in a variety of sizes and styles. They are lightweight and easy to maneuver, particularly so that a child can easily operate them. Some lightweight wheelchairs are small enough that they cannot hold a regular-sized adult due to their weight limit. Usually, these chairs should not cost too much, but that depends on the type you want to purchase. Of course, many opt to look for a used wheelchair for sale, particularly because the child can grow fast, and it makes sense to buy a better-class product.
Beach Wheelchairs
These are designed for use on sandy terrain, such as at the beach or in a park. They have larger wheels that can navigate through sand, and some models even have flotation devices for use in the water. A regular wheelchair cannot move on the sand, and these have wheels specifically designed for sandy terrain, allowing someone with a disability to go to the beach with their family and friends. Unless you go to the beach often, it can be more economical to look for a used wheelchair for sale.
Standing Wheelchairs
These are designed to allow users to stand up while in a wheelchair. This can be helpful for some patients, as it helps them improve circulation and reduce pressure sores. While eye-level interaction with some people is a nice bonus, it is not a huge benefit.
Reclining Wheelchairs
Similar to standing wheelchairs, these are designed to allow users to recline. They can help with pressure relief and improve comfort for users who spend long periods of time in their chairs. The physical exercise is minimal, but it is better than having none of it.
Tilt-in-Space Wheelchairs
These are designed to allow users to tilt the seat and backrest as a single unit. They can help with pressure relief and positioning and are often used by individuals with spinal cord injuries. These are used when the user has to tilt or change how they are sitting without changing their posture.
Conclusion
These are just a few examples of the types of new and used wheelchairs for sale available in retailers, drug stores, and pre-owned markets. Not all types of wheelchairs are designed for everyday use, and it is up to you to decide which one to go for. Sometimes, buying brand new is the better option, whereas something like a beach wheelchair can be better than a used one.
When searching for new or used wheelchair for sale, it’s important to consider factors such as the user’s needs, comfort, mobility requirements, and the intended environment of use. Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure that the wheelchair is properly sized and fitted to provide optimal support and prevent any discomfort or potential injuries.
In conclusion, the world of wheelchairs offers a diverse array of options to cater to different needs and preferences. From manual wheelchairs for those seeking independence and portability, to electric wheelchairs for effortless mobility, and specialized models for children and bariatric individuals, there is a wheelchair available for everyone. By understanding the various types of wheelchairs on the market, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect wheelchair to enhance your mobility and overall quality of life.
