Individual needs are often so varied it's no wonder that a piece of disability equipment doesn't work the same for everyone. So… how do you know what you’re getting is suitable for you? There’s often some helpful considerations to help reduce the risk of getting assistive devices that end up not meeting your needs.
Search for reviews
Many online disability product retailers show customer reviews and these are often a good place to start when you’re researching a potential new purchase of accessible kit or mobility device. Do the reviews highlight any features you’re likely to find helpful? Perhaps they warn of potential problems that tend to crop up. Reviews are of course subjective, but customers often know best!
Seek community recommendations
Are there trusted people or communities in your life that could offer their recommendation? When people find an assistive device they love, it’s easy to shout about! Social media groups often bring together like minded people and share recommendations about what works for them.
Find out if there’s a demonstration service
Many companies offer demonstrations either at home or at their premises so you can get a first hand experience of their products. Getting hands-on gives you a great chance to see the size and weight of the product in real life, and perhaps even get the chance to take it for a test drive! This is common for some types of larger or more complex assistive equipment including wheelchairs, postural support seating and walking and standing frames, so it’s often worth checking with the retailer. All of DEMAND’s specialist assistive products such as the Freasel and Sensory Shell Chair are available to try at our workshop in North London. Reach out to our team by email at info@demand.org.uk to make an appointment to visit!
Visit a disability exhibition
Will the adaptive equipment you’re considering be shown at an exhibition? With disability technology and mobility focussed exhibitions happening throughout the UK at various points through the year it’s likely there’s one not too far away. If the retailer you’re looking to buy from is exhibiting they’ll likely be more than happy to show off their range. Exhibitions often attract retailers of the same type, whether that be wheelchair accessible vehicles, wheelchairs and mobility devices or other assistive daily living equipment; which can give you a chance to compare a number of makes and models at the same time!
In some cases, an extended trial period may be offered. Each disability product retailer will have their own policy but an in-home trial can be very helpful in finding out if a product will work for you in the long run so it’s always worth asking before you buy.