7 Key Questions To Ask Before Buying A Wheelchair

By Author: medguard
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Choosing the right wheelchair is a big decision—whether you’re buying it for yourself, a family member, or for caregiving use. With so many wheelchairs to buy on the market, it’s easy to feel confused about which one will genuinely support comfort, mobility, and everyday independence.
To help you make a confident decision, here are 7 important questions you must ask before you buy a wheelchair.
1. What will the wheelchair be used for—daily use or occasional use?
The first step is understanding how often the wheelchair will be used.

If it’s needed for daily mobility aid, look for wheelchairs that offer strong durability, comfortable seating, and easy manoeuvring.


For short-term or occasional use, a lightweight transit wheelchair might be enough.

Usage helps determine the design, build quality, and features you need. Regular users ...
... benefit from:

Cushioned seats


Adjustable armrests


Strong brakes


Supportive backrests

Whereas occasional users may prefer simple, foldable options.
2. Should I choose a manual or electric wheelchair?
When exploring wheelchairs to buy, you'll see two major types:
Manual Wheelchairs
These require pushing—either by the user or a caregiver. They are:

Affordable


Easy to transport


Lightweight


Low maintenance

Electric Wheelchairs
These are battery-powered and easy to control with a joystick. Ideal for:

People with limited arm strength


Long-distance mobility


Outdoor use

Electric models cost more, but they offer higher independence and comfort.
Ask yourself:

How much physical effort can the user give?


Will the wheelchair be used indoors, outdoors, or both?


Is transportability important?

3. Is the wheelchair the right size and weight capacity?
A wheelchair must be correctly sized for comfort and safety.
Check:

Seat width (too narrow causes discomfort; too wide reduces support)


Seat height (should allow proper foot placement)


Backrest height (varies based on posture needs)


Weight capacity (standard vs. heavy-duty wheelchairs)

Choosing the wrong size may lead to back pain, shoulder strain, and poor posture. Always ensure the wheelchair fits the user’s body comfortably.
4. Will the wheelchair be easy to transport and store?
If you travel frequently or need to carry the wheelchair in a car, look for:

Foldable frames


Lightweight materials (like aluminium)


Quick-release footrests


Detachable armrests

Portable wheelchairs make life easier—especially for families or caregivers who need simple loading/unloading. For heavier electric wheelchairs, check if the model comes apart into smaller pieces.
5. Does the user need extra comfort features?
Not all wheelchairs provide the same level of comfort. When deciding to buy wheelchair models, consider:

Cushioned or ergonomic seating


Anti-tip wheels


Padded armrests


Reclining backrests


Adjustable leg rests


Suspension (on electric chairs)

If the user spends long hours in the chair, comfort features become essential—not optional.
6. What kind of terrain will the wheelchair be used on?
Think about where the wheelchair will mostly be used:

Indoors → Smaller wheels, compact design


Outdoors → Bigger wheels, strong frame, better suspension


Mixed use → Hybrid wheelchairs designed for versatility

Rough pathways, uneven roads, and long outdoor trips require sturdier wheelchairs with better tyres and stronger frames.
7. What is your budget—and what long-term costs are involved?
Wheelchairs come in a wide price range depending on:

Build quality


Manual or electric type


Comfort and adjustability


Brand reliability

But remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best, especially for daily users. Think long-term:

Maintenance costs


Repair availability


Replacement parts


Battery life (for electric wheelchairs)

Investing in high-quality wheelchairs ensures safety, reliability, and long-term comfort.
Final Thoughts
When looking for wheelchairs to buy, never rush the process. A wheelchair is not just a mobility device—it directly impacts independence, confidence, and quality of life.
By asking these 7 key questions before you buy wheelchair models, you’ll be able to choose a product that is safe, comfortable, and perfectly suited to the user’s needs.
Take your time, compare options, and choose a trusted supplier to ensure long-term peace of mind.

Paul Clifford is the Owner & CEO of Medguard. He aims to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure of the country by supplying medical devices and consumable products of top-notch quality.