Used vs New Wheelchair Van

What is a Mobility Needs Assessment? 


At United Access, our top priority is to improve the lives of people with mobility disabilities, along with those of their families and caregivers. Each decision we make revolves around you, our valued customer, and we work hard to deliver the highest quality service and products imaginable. We provide honest advice without pressure, and guarantee high-quality service and products throughout the purchase, and even after.

Mobility Needs Assessment Overview

When we first meet a client, we like to take 30-45 minutes and ask some questions to learn about the person, family, current situation, near future situation, home set up, budgets, etc. so we can learn as much as we can about who the person with the mobility challenge is and how will he/she be using the mobility solution. For your convenience, we are happy to offer multiple appointment options - whether you'd prefer to talk over the phone or would prefer a more personal touch, we are more than happy to accommodate. That means you can schedule an appointment at our dealership, at your home, or even over the phone - whatever works best for you! We are always here to make sure that you have the best experience possible.

Mobility Needs Assessment Questions

At your appointment our Mobility Specialists will ask you a series of questions with the express purpose of gaining an understanding of your individual mobility needs. Such questions will enable them to make well-informed and accurate mobility product recommendations that are best suited to your situation. Here are some examples of the questions you may be asked:

  • What is your current driving situation?
  • Where would you like to park your wheelchair van?
  • For whom is this a solution for Child, Spouse, Self, Friend, Parent, Sibling, Other? 
  • Who will be using the wheelchair/scooter - Driver/Passenger?
  • What type of mobility device (wheelchair/scooter) are you going to be using?
  • What is the make and model of the wheelchair/scooter?
  • How much does the wheelchair/scooter user weigh?
  • How much does the wheelchair/scooter weigh?
  • How many miles will you be driving in the van each year?
  • What type of disability is the wheelchair/scooter user living with -- SCI, Muscular Dystrophy, Multiple Sclerosis, Polio, Cerebral Palsy, ALS, Aging Disorders, Other (please describe)? 
  • Are you a veteran? Service-Connected Injury?
  • What is the desired passenger capacity you need in the van?
  • What activities do you like to do in your free time?
  • Do you have a monthly budget you would like to keep in mind?
  • Are you looking for a new or pre-owned van?

You may be confused by some of these questions, wondering to yourself why they are important. These question, from a part of the pussle that our mobility consultants need to provide a reliable recommentdation. For instance, you may find it intrusive to enquire about someone's weight; nevertheless, this is a vital piece of infromation when it comes to the selection of compatible ramps and lifts as these pieces of equipment have a limited weight capacity. Knowing the amount of weight with encompass the wheelchair plus the person who will use it allows us to recommend the most suitable product. 

Mobility Needs Assessment: How to Select the Right Mobility Solution for Your Disability

We ask about the nature of the disability to effectively recommend the solution that best meets the individual's needs. With an understanding of various diseases and injuries, we can customize our advice for each unique situation. For instance, those diagnosed with ALS are faced with a terminal, incurable disease. Thus, we may suggest a used wheelchair van, as a new one may be unnecessary for what could be a short time frame. Although it can be emotionally difficult, it is our job to offer the most honest and suitable advice that we can.

With over 25 years of experience, the entire United Access team is dedicated to improving and transforming the lives of mobility-impaired people and their families. We are devoted to ensuring our customers are at the center of all our decisions and to bringing our customers the best service and products in the industry. Our mobility specialists will do more than just sell you a car or product; we'll listen to your story and provide you with an honest assessment and recommendation that best suits your needs. We want to make sure you get the most out of your purchase or rental, so our staff of service and rental specialists are highly trained to meet industry standards and keep your investment running smoothly. 

Are you ready to get started? Contact us today or visit one of our locations nationwide to start your next step in mobility.

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