What to Consider When Shopping for a Power Wheelchair

I spent 40 years as a nurse practitioner, now retired, and these are the questions I'd want answered before buying a power wheelchair.

Start with where the chair will be used. Measure doorways, hallways, and tight spots at home before shopping, because a chair that fits the house makes everyday use far easier. Then think about getting around beyond the front door. Does it fold? Will it fit in the vehicle? Who will be lifting it, if anyone? For anyone planning to fly or cruise, ask about battery requirements before buying, because the rules can change.

Next, think about a typical day. Range depends on battery size, so picture the errands and outings on a normal day and look for a chair that goes a bit farther than that. A bigger battery costs more, but it means fewer worries about getting back. Weight capacity matters too. Look for a capacity with room to spare, since chairs rated comfortably above the rider's weight tend to ride better and hold up longer.

Comfort deserves as much attention as any spec. Power chairs are built for long hours of sitting, so compare cushions, backrests, and seat widths. Joystick placement and feel vary from model to model, so look for controls that feel easy and natural to use.

Finally, look at what happens after the sale. Ask about the warranty, replacement parts, and who to contact with questions. Many shoppers also find it helpful to include a healthcare provider or therapist in the decision.

I put these points into a one-page checklist that can be printed and brought along while comparing chairs. Download the Power Wheelchair Buying Checklist.

If you'd like help sorting through the options, I'm happy to talk it through. You can browse our power wheelchairs, or email me at sandy@mobilizingmatrix.com.

Sandy D Rossman, NP (Ret.)
Founder, Mobilizing Matrix