Mobility is a fundamental requirement. For users of wheelchairs, mobility largely depends on the quality of the wheelchair. A good wheelchair translates into comfort, mobility, and independence.
Honestly speaking – wheelchairs are quite expensive, and many a time upgrading to a better one looks impossible. That is where insurance and grants can step in. These two funding sources can ease the burden of getting an upgrade.
So, if your wheelchair hasn’t been serving comfort or the newest model in the market, then this guide will prove useful in helping you to upgrade through insurance or grants.
Feel like exploring the upgrade options right now? Check out the Assistive Tech Hub for support and models.
Why Upgrade Your Existing Wheelchair?
1. Improved Comfort and Functionality
The wheelchairs of today are better than their older counterparts. The new ones have the following options available:
Padding that is nice and soft
Ergonomic designs that contour the body better
New-age back support
Power tilt or automatic recline
Some, like Carbon Fibre Power Wheelchair, are super light and offer much comfort for daily use.
Why go for something hard on the back or tiring? Some easy upgrades will give you lots more comfort while sitting and moving around.
2. Enhanced Mobility and Independence
A lightweight chair with wheels, better maneuverability, and a good upgrade will make your everyday life easier. Features like:
- Improved turning radius
- Adjustable footrests
- Powered options
Help you move better and depend less on others.
See what upgraded models are available at the Assistive Tech Hub Store
3. Long-Term Health Benefits
Upgrading is more than just comfort—it concerns health. An old chair (or one that doesn’t fit well) can give problems such as:
- Pressure sores
- Incorrect posture
- Long-term damage to your spine or joints
A good chair will allow you to maintain a good sitting posture and avoid injury over the years.
Assistive Tech Hub has more information on how your chair can contribute to your health.
Funding Options for Wheelchair Upgrades
1. Using Insurance for Wheelchair Upgrades
- Eligibility
Check your health insurance policy first. Some policies do allow upgrades, especially where your doctor has prescribed the upgrade as medically required.
- Steps to Claim:
Get a doctor’s prescription stating why you need an upgrade.
Add supporting documents (like your diagnosis and history of use).
Hand in your claim with support documents to your insurance company.
- Common Restrictions:
Some plans only cover limited types of upgrades.
They may limit how often an upgrade can be done (for example: once in the 5 years).
Do you need assistance with the claims process? The Assistive Tech Hub can help.
2. Government Grants for Wheelchair Upgrades
- What Programs to Apply To:
NDIS for the National Disability Insurance Program has all the funding to cover upgrades for people with disabilities, including wheelchair upgrades. If you want more information on the programs, look for NDIS.
- Steps to Claim:
Speak to your medical provider to get copies of the medical documents.
Submit your application for the grant to the agency.
Enclose quotes or invoices from the supplier (such as Assistive Tech Hub)
Wait for approval (can take several weeks).
- Local Information:
Every state may have some extra grants or regulations, so please check for local-level programs.
For more details on government funding, check the Assistive Tech Hub.
3. Local and Charitable Organizations
All assistance will not come from the government or insurance. Some NGOs and local organizations could help:
- Community groups
- Disability centers
- Religious groups or civic organizations
How do you approach them?
- Get to them directly and ask for any funding towards the upgrade
- Share your story along with documentation
Visit the Assistive Tech Hub Wholesale for details on local partner organizations.
Steps to Upgrade Your Wheelchair Through Insurance or Grants
1. Assess Your Current Wheelchair
Before making an upgrade, determine what exactly is wrong with your present wheelchair:
- Is it painful for you?
- Is it missing important features?
- Is it heavier than you want?
Consider:
- Weight
- Comfort of seating
- Features such as tilt or recline
- Back and foot supports
The different options can be compared at the Assistive Tech Hub Store.
2. Check Your Insurance Policy
Investigate what is covered. What is excluded?
Steps to take:
- Call your insurance
- Inquire about the mobility aid being upgraded
- Ask what they’ll require (doctor notes, last receipts, etc.)
Need more clarification? Get in touch with Assistive Tech Hub Contact for help.
3. Explore Government Grants or Subsidies
Grants could assist you even if your insurance cannot cover anything.
What you’ll probably need:
- A letter of support by a doctor or occupational therapist
- An estimate for the wheelchair you want to upgrade to
- Proof of identity and need
Fill up your application with courage — with Assistive Tech Hub support.
4. Consider Charitable Support
Do not forget charitable organizations that are smaller. They may be surprisingly helpful, especially for:
- Low-income families
- People without insurance
- Urgent medical needs
- Some of the things they usually cover are:
- Partial payments
- Delivery and setup
- Emergency upgrades
Note: Assistive Tech Hub offers further insights.
Common Challenges in Upgrading a Wheelchair
1. Limited Insurance Coverage
Your insurer might say:
- “Not covered”
- “You just had an upgrade recently”
- “Too expensive for that chair”
Suggested options:
- Appeal that decision
- Ask your doctor to write a medical justification for a wheelchair upgrade once more
- Combine funding through grants and insurance to cover the entire cost
Any further questions on fighting back? The Assistive Tech Hub will be more than happy to assist you.
2. Delays in Grant Processing
Grant paperwork can take time: some take weeks, some take months.
Things to do:
- Apply early
- Regularly follow up on the status
- Keep your paperwork ready
- Don’t wait for your current chair to break down
Running out of time? See Assistive Tech Hub for alternative options or speedy assistance.
3. Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Even with financial assistance, usually you will have to watch for:
- Copay
- Upgrades for accessories (cushions, maybe electric motors)
- From what is covered by the insurer til the actual price
Tips:
- Ask for payment plans
- Ask for an alternative with a cheaper rate
- Combine insurance and local support groups
Inquire within Assistive Tech Hub for assistance.
Conclusion
Upgrading your wheelchair can make a world of difference in comfort, mobility, and health. Though the path may involve insurance policies, government grants, or charitable support, the result is worth the effort. Each step outlined here is designed to empower you with options that are practical and within reach. If you ever need guidance or want to explore available models and support, turn to Assistive Tech Hub. You’re not alone in this journey—and with the right help, a better ride is just around the corner.
