Last Updated on December 15, 2021 by Mark P.
Wheelchairs are used all around the world for a variety of reasons, ranging from injury to illness. Unfortunately, there are not often covered by health insurance in the US, and not everyone can afford to pay the full price. Does that mean they have to learn to go without help? No! Luckily, there are many options to find an affordable used wheelchair.
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Where to Buy a Cheap Used Wheelchair
You have many choices regarding buying a used wheelchair, but it’s hard to know which one is the right choice? Don’t worry. The internet has already done the work for you! So many excellent third-party sellers are waiting to make a deal with you. Websites like eBay make finding respected sellers so easy.
To find an affordable used wheelchair, click this link: https://www.ebay.com/b/Wheelchairs/19265/bn_705170
The History of the Wheelchair
Although scholars do not have an exact date, it is assumed that the first wheelchair was created in the 6th and 4th BCE centuries. It’s known that wheeled furniture reached Europe in the 17th century. As time went on, the wheeled chair’s technology became more advanced, including cranks and rotary handles. Back in the day, they were more like armchairs than a medical device.
The wheelchair design we know today was created in the 20th century. Engineers cast away the old use of wicker and wood and started using a lightweight, tubular metal. The design of the cross-frame wheelchair was credited to Everest & Jennings Inc. In the 21st century, innovation has focused on making the wheelchair design lightweight, efficient, and easy to use.
Is buying a Wheelchair Used better than buying it new?
When it comes to buying a used wheelchair, the success of the situation depends on the purchaser’s health. For example, if the customer is auto immune-deficient, it’s probably not a good idea to purchase a used wheelchair from a third-party seller. If you’re not auto immune-deficient, than you have nothing to worry about!
When it comes to price, you can’t go wrong by buying a used wheelchair instead of a new one at full price. A new wheelchair can be double the price of a used one.
Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Wheelchair
The main pro of buying a used wheelchair is simple: price. It is considerably cheaper to buy a wheelchair through a third party or a website like eBay than buying it any other way. Plus, there is a higher likelihood of getting it shipped to your house way before the distributor. Purchasing a wheelchair at full price can range from $200 to thousands of dollars, but buying a used wheelchair from a third party seller is typically under $100. That’s cutting the price in half!
The most significant con of buying a used wheelchair is getting an inferior product and wasting your money. That’s why it’s always best to check the reviews and examine the photos that reviewers have provided. If there is a 90% positive review score, you know that it’s a good purchase. Also, make sure to check for these things below.
What to look for in a Used Wheelchair
The most important thing to look at in a used wheelchair is the wheels and gears’ condition. If they are rusty, they will get stuck, making it harder to push the chair. Keep an eye out for the seat. Look for any rips or tears in the corners where the weight will rest.
If you’re purchasing the used wheelchair from a third-party website or eBay seller, you can’t test the wheels out as you can in person, which puts you at a disadvantage. Luckily, you still have reviews. Some customers will post pictures of their received product and include comments and complaints. You can check the condition of the product by examining the photos closely. Look at the problem areas! Keep an eye out for any flaws.
The world can be challenging when you’re disabled or injured, so buying a wheelchair should be cheap and easy. If you’re looking for a wheelchair, make sure to consider purchasing a used one from a respected seller. In the end, you’ll end up saving yourself some money, pain, and heartache.
