How to Hire a Wheelchair

When you require temporary use of a wheelchair, you might want to hire, or rent one. Some factors to keep in mind include whether you want a manual chair or an electric-powered model, and the kind of terrain you expect to ride on. You will also want to know how long you plan on needing a wheelchair, and whether it's better to rent it at home or at a place you are traveling to.

Instructions

• 1

  Test your arm strength by sitting in a wheelchair at a medical equipment rental company. See whether you feel strong enough to grab and push the wheels to move yourself around. You can also ask someone accompanying you to see what it's like pushing you around in the chair. It may turn out that you will be better off renting an electric wheelchair, which you can operate by pushing a button or manipulating a joystick or other control.

• 2

  Ask the salesperson at the medical equipment company how long you can expect to operate the wheelchair between battery charges if you get an electric model. Find out how long it takes to charge the batteries, and ensure that the chair you rent will work for the amount of time you need it each day.

• 3

  Find out what the rates are for renting a wheelchair by the day, week and month. If you know you only need the chair for a short time, it might be less expensive to pay a daily fee. If your recuperation requires you to use a wheelchair for an extended period, the weekly or monthly wheelchair rental rates may be a better deal.

• 4

  Ask to see all-terrain wheelchairs if you plan to visit parks, campgrounds, areas with gravel roads, or other sites with rough surfaces. You'll be able to join friends and family on an impromptu trip to the beach if you rent a wheelchair that can traverse sand and water.

• 5

  Contact the guest services department of the theme park, museum or other attraction you are visiting for vacation. Ask whether they offer wheelchair rentals, and see if you can reserve one, so it will be waiting for you when you arrive. This may be an easier option than renting a wheelchair at home and taking it with you when you travel to your destination, especially if you only need the chair at the attraction.