Questions to ask before buying for someone else

October 17, 2026

Buying mobility equipment for someone else is an act of love, and it comes with a particular challenge: you will not be the one using it. A walker that suits you may be the wrong height for your mother. A wheelchair that looks roomy online may be too wide for your father's bathroom door. A few questions, answered before you click "buy," can save a return, a frustrating week and a piece of equipment that never gets used.

Questions about the person

Have I asked them what they want? The National Institute on Aging's advice is that the best way to know what someone needs is to ask them directly. Find out what is hard and what they hope the equipment will let them do.
Will they use it? If they are reluctant, involve them in choosing. The Department of Justice's ADA guidance states that people with disabilities have the right to choose whatever mobility device best suits their needs.
How tall are they, and what do they weigh? Many products list a weight capacity, and some list a height range. Pride, for example, sizes its VivaLift! Tranquil 2 lift chair by height: Small for 5'3" and below, Medium for 5'4" to 5'9", and Large/Tall for 5'10" and above.
How strong is their grip, and how is their balance? This affects whether brakes, folding latches and controls will be easy for them.
Who will push, fold or lift it? If it is you, the product's weight matters as much as the user's comfort.
Has a doctor or therapist recommended anything? The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that occupational therapists recommend special equipment, such as mobility aids. If there is a recommendation, start from it.

Questions about the home and car

How wide are the doorways and halls it must pass through? Measure at the narrowest point, with the door fully open.
How much room is there to turn and park it? Think about the bedroom, bathroom and kitchen.
What surfaces will it travel on? Carpet, tile, gravel, grass and sidewalks all ask different things of wheels.
Are there steps or thresholds on the way in?
Will it ride in a car? Measure the trunk or cargo area and check the folded size and the weight of the heaviest piece.

Questions about the product

Look for the maker's published specifications, not just a listing's summary. Compare at least:

Weight capacity. Choose a product rated comfortably above the user's weight.
Seat width and height. For example, Vive lists its Transport Wheelchair with a 19 inch seat width and 300 pound capacity, while its Heavy Duty Wheelchair has a 20 inch wide seat, 400 pound capacity and a weight of 45 pounds. The right one depends on who sits in it and who lifts it.
Overall width. Compare it with your doorway measurements.
Product weight and folded size. Especially if it travels.
Adjustability. Handle heights, seat heights and footrests that adjust can make a better fit.
Battery and range, for power equipment, and where it will be charged.
Warranty and registration. Terms vary by maker. Vive, for instance, says purchases through third-party channels are only guaranteed if registered within 30 days of purchase.

Questions about delivery and setup

Where should it ship? To your loved one's home or yours? Faith Mobility ships to the lower 48 states and DC; see shipping by state. Shipping is free on orders over $500 and $15 under $500, and we cover the sales tax.
Who will receive it? Some boxes are large and heavy. Some Smirthwaite items carry a $175 lift-gate delivery charge.
Who will assemble and adjust it? Set handles and seats to the user, not to the person who opened the box.
Is it installed equipment? For stairlifts, platform lifts, vehicle lifts, ramps, door openers and driving aids, we work with a team of credentialed local specialists to guarantee timely, safe, and optimal delivery and installation.

Questions about the future

Are their needs likely to change? Ask their doctor. If change is expected, adjustable equipment may serve longer.
Is this for a short recovery or the long term? That can shape how much to invest in features.
What else will they need with it? A bag, a cup holder, a cover, a spare battery. Browse accessories.

One last question

Before you order, ask your loved one once more: "Is this the one you want?" If the answer is yes, you have done the most important part. If you are still unsure what fits, our fit assessment walks through many of these questions for you. If you have a question about a specific product, email us at info@faithmobility.com.

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Not sure what fits? Try the free fit assessment.

Sources

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