Over the years, we’ve met with many people challenged with determining when to make a mobility product purchase.
Oftentimes, individuals with a partial disability may start noticing that their day-to-day mobility challenges are increasing, yet they may also still have a number of reservations that hold them back from making a decision/purchase.
Among the concerns/reservations that we see people having are:
Acceptance — Am I accepting or giving in to my mobility loss/disability if I make a mobility equipment purchase?
Financial Concerns — Should I really be spending this money? Am I making a wise investment? Am I getting the most for my money?
General Uncertainty — What should I do? What decision is best for me?
In reality, the questions that they should be asking themselves are:
- Are my daily mobility challenges beginning to become potentially dangerous situations?
- Will my disability be temporary? If so, how quickly will I see improvements/recovery?
- Will my disability continue to worsen? If so, how quickly?
For individuals in need of a wheelchair van, the questions that need to be asked—as well as the decisions that need to be made—become even a bit more involved.
If we assume that the individual in the wheelchair will only be transported in the wheelchair van (as opposed to being a driver), then the first questions that need to be addressed are:
- What is the current level of the individual’s mobility loss?
- What is the individual’s expected progression (i.e., will his/her condition improve, will it remain stable, will it worsen)?
- How large is the disabled individual and his/her mobility device?
- What is the maximum number of people who will be transported simultaneously in the vehicle?
- How are the health and physical strength of the disabled person’s companion(s)?
- What are the driver’s vehicle preferences?
- Who is paying for the vehicle and how?
- What is the budget?
Another factor to consider in making a decision about purchasing a mobility product is quality of life. Experience has shown us that when people with disabilities have accessible transportation, their quality of their life can be greatly improved. If they can get out, visit friends and family, run errands, and participate in enjoyable activities, they are overall happier and healthier in both body and spirit.
Today, there are more reliable, innovative mobility products on the market than ever before. To help determine what would work best for you, give some thought to the questions above, do some research (don’t miss our 2011 Buyer’s Guide: Handicap Accessible Wheelchairs Vans), and then contact one of our experienced, knowledgeable Mobility Consultants.
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Crazy question for you: I know some disabled do use converted vans to transport themselves and their wheelchairs. Does anyone convert SUVs, as well? Thank you.