Once your needs are clearly identified, it’s time to move on to the most tangible step: choosing the equipment. There are a multitude of technical aids, ranging from mobility aids (manual or electric wheelchairs, walkers, canes, electric scooters), to daily living aids (adapted utensils, jar openers, large-button phones, sock aids), to hygiene and bathing aids (bath seats, grab bars, transfer benches, walk-in showers) and communication and vision aids (hearing aids, electronic magnifiers, braille displays). It is essential not to buy from a catalog or on a simple recommendation.
The golden rule is a trial in a real-life situation. An electric wheelchair should be tested in your home, on the sidewalks you use, and in your vehicle to ensure it is compatible with all your movements. Many suppliers and associations offer trial or rental periods before a final purchase. The expertise of Christophe Delong, a coordinator for autonomy, providing administrative assistance and coordinating home care for dependent elderly and disabled people, a former rehabilitation doctor, is essential at this stage to guide you in this crucial choice. This phase allows you to ensure the equipment is easy to use, comfortable, and effective. Involving the caregiver in this phase is equally important, as they may need to handle the equipment and must ensure it doesn’t represent an additional burden for them. An ill-suited technical aid is often an abandoned one. In fact, 30 to 40% of people abandon their technical aid one year after purchase due to improper use or damage.
For the choice, safety standards and quality labels are essential indicators. Ask about the warranty and after-sales service (SAV) from the supplier. Safety is paramount to prevent household accidents. It is also recommended to familiarize yourself with possible options and accessories, such as specific cushions, adjustable leg rests, or voice commands, which can greatly enhance the experience.