One cannot afford to compromise on health, medicines and medical supplies, therefore, become unavoidable expenses. But, with the rocketing prices of anything remotely to do with health, the affordability factor becomes an issue. One way to deal with it is by buying used products second-hand when and where possible.
Wheelchairs or other mobility equipment can be easily reused. A lot of money goes into buying a new one, and in many cases, it is not permanently used by the affected person. Often people may need it only for the period of healing. If you are looking for reused mobility equipment, here are some useful tips.
Opt for trustworthiness
If you are buying it from an acquaintance or a friend’s reference, you are probably safe. But if your source is the internet, you need to be extra cautious about the seller and his authenticity. Opt for a reliable buying and selling site and do not fall for unbelievably reduced price ads on social media.
Ask relevant questions
Ask questions about the mobility equipment to the prospective seller. Ensure you thoroughly inquire about the comfort, efficiency, convenience, and the how-to-dos of the device. He or she should be more than willing to provide you all the answers.
Take a good look at the condition
Make sure the mobility equipment is in a good enough condition to be reused. Check its mechanical functioning and technicalities before deciding to purchase.
Consult a professional
Take help of a mobility equipment specialist who can examine more thoroughly the tiniest of details of the device and make a correct assessment of whether anything needs fixing at the moment or in the near future.
Test drive
Have a go at it yourself. It will give you a perfect idea of how it will suit you and whether it will work for you or not.
Observe the ride carefully
Keep a sharp eye and observe carefully. If you feel any unnatural jerking or difficulty in moving forward or any sound that should not be there, ask questions again.
Buying mobility equipment second-hand is a fantastic cost-saving idea, but do not jump into it without being 100% sure of the seller’s intentions and the machine’s conditions.