[Kitty]

I'm considering getting a transport chair or rollator. These are the ones I'm looking at. I need to check and see what Medicare will pay for.

Has anyone else purchased a transport chair? They all look good to me but I've never purchased one before. Is there anything specific I should look for?

Amazon.com: Drive Medical Lightweight Steel Transport Wheelchair, Fixed Full Arms, 19" Seat: Health & Personal Care

Amazon.com: Lumex Hybrid Rollator Transport Chair, Titanium: Health & Personal Care

[kicker]

Look at wheel size. Could you propel self if needed? That chair looks like it needs someone to push. If needs changed would it help you? My Doctor writes a prescription for a wheelchair so Insurance pays, it allows up to a certain amount as Durable Medical Insurance per year.. Goodwill often has 2nd hand wheelchairs donated but you have to ask about it.

[Jomar]

If there are mobility stores in your area , I would go and spend time really trying various ones out.
test out folding it, lifting it, self propel, pushing ..
and sit in awhile to make sure the seat is a good height for you.

Later on you might want to add a seat cushion so that is another option to think about.

My parents had a Matrix health care visit , and they got a home health check, some PT and home assessment for safety / handicap helps/tips.
Might be something to think about for the future.
FAQS - Matrix Medical

[doydie]

Check your local MS society. Ours has a list in every months newsletter of what they have available. Good luck.

[Sparky10]

All good suggestions so far! After you've looked around, see if the MSAA offers anything close to what you like. http://mymsaa.org/msaa-help/assistive-equipment/

Remember, Medicare probably only pays 80% of your chair, if that.

Hope you find the perfect tool!

[tkrik]

Everyone gave great advice, Kelly!

I agree with Kicker. It does look like someone would need to push you in the chair/rollator. You may be able to propel yourself with your feet but that would depend on your foot/leg strength as well as how fatigued your muscles are on that particular day. Jo*mar's idea of going to a mobility store and trying things out is fantastic. You can also rent things at a local medical supply store and that's a great way to try it before you buy it. Plus, they can advise you on what may work best for you.

Doydie and Sparky had good suggestions as well. The MS Society and MS Association both may have mobility aids and/or can help with financial assistance in obtaining the mobility devices.