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Wheelchair and Powerchair Buying Checklist

Our trusted assessor qualified team are here to help in your choice of your wheel or power chair. Make sure you get the one that best suits you and your needs.

Fit & Measurements

  • We always recommend getting your healthcare professional or one of our trusted assessors to help in choosing the right size chair for you
  • This is so important to avoid exacerbating an existing condition and ensuring your comfort in the chair
  • They will measure you for seat width, depth, height of seat, arms and back
  • They will be able to advise on any specialist measurement you might need, such as leg or lumbar support

Type of Wheelchair

  • What type do you want, i.e. manual vs. powered ( see below re power chairs)
  • Are you looking for self-propelled (large wheels for propulsion) or attendant-pushed
  • Lightweight / transport or everyday use
  • Do you want a sports or active-user model?
  • Do you need tilt-in-space or reclining if pressure relief is required?

Environment & Lifestyle

  • Check indoor use (tight spaces, narrow doorways — consider width)
  • Check needs for outdoor use (larger wheels, puncture-resistant tyres)
  • Consider transportation needs (foldable for car boot / public transport)
  • Review home layout (do you need ramps, thresholds, bathroom access)

Features & Adjustability

  • What adjustability do you need e.g. footrests and armrests?
  • Do you require removable / swing-away footrests for transfers?
  • Do you need anti-tip wheels?
  • Ensure your compatibility re brakes / wheel locks (hand vs. attendant-operated)
  • Carefully review the cushion type (foam, gel, air — important for pressure sore prevention)
  • What back support is required?

For Powered Wheelchairs

  • Consider battery range and charging time
  • Check the joystick placement and sensitivity
  • Review indoor vs. outdoor motor capability
  • Consider the weight and portability

Weight & Portability

  • Review chair weight vs. user/carer ability to lift
  • Ease of operation of folding mechanism
  • Your weight v weight capacity of the chair

Cost & Funding

  • Review NHS provision / referral via occupational therapist
  • Assess your private purchase budget
  • Future proof the purchase and ensure you are getting the right model for your current and future needs
  • Wheelchair service assessment eligibility
  • Check out insurance coverage
  • Obtain the cost of accessories (cushions, bags, rain covers)

Clinical & Safety

  • Assessed by an occupational therapist, physiotherapist and/or trusted assessor
  • Review pressure sore risk (especially for long sitting hours)
  • Consider a trial period or hire option before purchasing
  • Ask about the warranty and after-sales support
  • Check availability of spare parts

Supplier Checks

  • Ensure you use a reputable supplier / dealer
  • Review the service re post-purchase servicing and repairs
  • Check any return/exchange policy
  • Access user reviews and recommendations

This checklist covers the key decision points, but an assessment from an occupational therapist or trusted assessor is always the best first step — we offer free no obligation assessments.

To view our selected range of wheelchairs, please click here.

To view our selected range of powerchairs, please click here.