Wheelchairs are mobility devices designed to assist people with disabilities or injuries in moving around independently. While we mostly associate wheelchairs with people who have completely lost their ability to walk, they have many more uses. They are used when a person is unable to walk, has difficulty walking, or is unable to walk long distances. They also assist people who have recently had surgery or a medical procedure to move around without having to tire themselves out too much.
Wheelchairs can be used for a variety of reasons, including spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, amputation, and other conditions that affect mobility. In some cases, people who can walk may also use wheelchairs, such as when they need to conserve energy or are recovering from an injury. This type of wheelchair use is often temporary and may involve the use of a manual or powered wheelchair. Additionally, some people who have certain medical conditions may use a wheelchair for activities that require prolonged standing, such as attending concerts or events.
In short, wheelchair use varies, and you might be looking for used wheelchairs for sale too, depending on your situation.
Why Do People Who Can Walk Use Wheelchairs?
If you have a foot injury, a doctor will usually recommend some physical therapy in the form of constantly using your foot as much as you can. The added pressure helps speed up the healing process and can even help someone recover their ability to walk. However, just like how we exercise, rest is a necessity as well, and the use of wheelchairs may be permitted.
For that reason, just because a person can walk doesn’t mean they might not need a wheelchair. Sometimes people may have temporary mobility issues, such as a broken leg or recovering from surgery, as mentioned before. Doctors may even recommend the use of wheelchairs even if it does not make it difficult to walk to allow the rest of your body to heal as well. In these cases, a wheelchair may be used temporarily to assist with mobility.
There is also energy conservation for people with certain medical conditions, such as chronic fatigue syndrome or heart conditions. Walking may be exhausting and cause undue strain on the body, and a wheelchair can help conserve energy, allowing them to participate in activities for longer periods. Sometimes, a wheelchair may simply be more convenient for certain situations, such as navigating a large airport or shopping mall. It may also be more convenient for people who need to carry heavy items or travel long distances. Geriatric people who have aged considerably may need to walk, but having a wheelchair around can work as well, though in that case one might recommend a permanent wheelchair.
There is also the less talked about the psychological benefit of using wheelchairs. For some people, using a wheelchair can provide a sense of security and confidence. It may also provide a sense of independence and control over their mobility if they feel like being dependent on someone can put an unnecessary burden on them.
It is important to note that people who can walk and choose to use a wheelchair should not be judged or assumed to be ‘faking’ or exaggerating their condition. Every individual’s situation is unique, and the decision to use a wheelchair should be respected and supported.
Why Buy a Used Wheelchair Instead of Looking for a Brand New One?
As mentioned, every situation is unique, so looking at used wheelchairs for sale can be a good option in certain situations, but it depends on the individual’s specific needs and circumstances. Some potential reasons why you might consider buying a used wheelchair can be:
Cost Savings
Used wheelchairs are often less expensive than new ones, which can be a significant factor for people who are on a tight budget or do not have insurance coverage for durable medical equipment.
Availability
Depending on where you live, it may be difficult to find a new wheelchair that meets your needs. Buying a used one may offer more options, especially if you are looking for a specific type or model.
Environmental Impact
A used wheelchair can help reduce waste and environmental impact by extending the life of a product that might otherwise be discarded.
Temporary Use
If you only need a wheelchair temporarily, such as during a recovery period, a used wheelchair can be a cost-effective option that you can later sell or donate.
Ready-Made Options
Many used wheelchairs have already been customized to meet the previous owner’s specific needs, such as adding cushioning or modifying the footrests. This can save you time and money in having to customize a new wheelchair to fit your specific needs by buying a used one.
Getting Better Wheelchairs At a Lower Cost
An automated wheelchair that can be controlled using a remote system can be beneficial, especially for people too weak to operate the wheels on their own. Some may lack the physical strength to do so due to other circumstances. For example, a young child in a wheelchair may require a more advanced, automated wheelchair, and buying one used can save up on cost significantly.
Can be Necessary for Children
Children grow up fast, and if a child is using a wheelchair, they might need to get it replaced after a few years due to outgrowing its size. Buying used wheelchairs for sale can help save up on cost and even can be donated or sold again to another child that might need them for a lower cost.
The Risks of Buying Used
However, there are also potential drawbacks to consider when buying a used wheelchair, such as the risk of buying a faulty or outdated model, lack of warranty or support, and potential hygiene concerns. It’s important to thoroughly research and inspect any used wheelchair before purchasing it, and to ensure that it meets your specific needs and requirements.
Conclusion
Looking at used wheelchairs for sale, you could find some for a good price, and it’s especially worthwhile if you are using them temporarily. However, there are also some drawbacks to buying used, so use only reputable sellers and official used online markets to buy them rather than private deals.
