Guide to Electric Folding Wheelchairs

Finding the right folding electric wheelchairs for your clientele
By Melissa Hudak

A folding electric wheelchair combines the best of both worlds. A user can manipulate an electric wheelchair more easily than a manual wheelchair, and it can be folded and stored away when not in use. When looking at folding power wheelchairs for your clientele to use, make sure you know the problems you may face before you buy.

1. Read user reviews of electric folding wheelchairs.

2. Think about renting electric foldable wheelchairs before buying.

3. Buy electric folding wheelchairs from reputable electric folding wheelchair distributors.

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Look at what actual users are saying about electric folding wheelchairs If you are not a wheelchair user yourself, it is difficult to know what a disabled person might be facing. Don't assume you know what they need, or rely on the opinion of one person. Even if you use a wheelchair yourself, or know others who own an electric folding wheelchair, it is good to see the problems others are facing.

I recommend: The USA TechGuide of the United Spinal Assocation lets actual users rate their own wheelchairs. The website also gives specifics on chairs, such as the maximum speed of the folding power wheelchairs, the range and distance of the chairs, and the battery type used in the chairs. SpinLife.com also provides reviews of chairs it sells and some it doesn't sell.

Try renting from electric folding wheelchairs makers before buying It might be a good idea to test drive a few chairs before buying; you need to make sure the chairs will meet your needs. Folding power wheelchairs are expensive; many cost over five thousand dollars. Renting electric wheelchairs that fold can help you avoid buying a folding electric wheelchair that doesn't meet the needs of your clientele.

I recommend: Scootaround Mobility Solutions has rental options that may work for you. CARE Medical Equipment rents electric wheelchairs. While these companies may not be able to meet your exact needs, they may be able to provide you with opportunities to try out chairs before buying electric folding wheelchairs.

Buy electric folding wheelchairs online Many electric folding wheelchair makers have made it easier to buy online. Check out a few companies before you buy, and see if you can find a competitive price.

I recommend: Edmond Wheelchair Repair and Supply not only sells electric folding wheelchairs but also provides accessories your clientele may appreciate. SpinLife.com offers a range of electric foldable wheelchairs, as well as a variety of cushions and backs that may help you customize a wheelchair to meet a specific client's needs. You might also look into the option of buying a used folding electric wheelchair. Look at Marc's Mobility for some options, or see if Used Wheelchairs USA has any electric foldable wheelchairs in stock. TradeKey is an outlet for electric folding wheelchairs distributors; you may be able to find ones that suit your needs here.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

One size fits all doesn't work with electric folding wheelchairs. Depending on the disability, people may need varying types of electric wheelchairs. Don't assume that one type of folding wheelchair can meet all of your customer's needs.
Consider selling used parts and supplies or repair service for electric folding wheelchairs; sometimes only specific parts need to be replaced or repaired, and not the entire chair.