How to Get A Free Wheelchair

Need a Wheelchair? Many Ontario Residents Can Get Free Wheelchairs!

Need a wheelchair? Don't despair! Wheelchairs are extremely handy to have around the home. If you are having problems walking, then take a seat!  This post has a bit about how you can get a free wheelchair if you live in Ontario.

Who Qualifies for a Free Wheelchair?

Many Ontarians qualify for a free wheelchair and may not even realize it! If you see someone having problems walking, please let them know that they could get a wheelchair for free. Here is a list of the types of people who could get a wheelchair for free through the  Assistive Devices Program:

Are you on one of the Ontario Government assistance programs? Good news! The Assistive Devices Program aka ADP will cover 100% of the cost of your wheelchair!

• Ontario Works 
• Ontario Disability Support Program 
• Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities

If you are not on one of those programs, you can still get 75% of the cost of your wheelchair covered by the Assistive Devices Program. 

If you cannot afford the remaining 25% of the cost, then you might be able to get assistance from a service club or church to help fund the rest.

How to Get Measured for Your Wheelchair

It is very important to be properly measured for a wheelchair. The wrong chair could cause you further injuries.

Screenshot Showing Wheelchair Measurement

Getting a free wheelchair through the assistive devices program is quite easy once you are connected if you are connected with the right occupational therapist or physiotherapist.

1. Start by emailing the Assistive Devices Program for a list of qualified therapists in your area email the ADP at adp@ontario.ca
2. The therapist will watch you as you try to walk, sit and stand. They will take a variety of measurements to be sure the chair will fit you properly and you will be comfortable.
3. The therapist will help you fill out the Assistive Devices Program application form
4. Contact a business that is registered with the ADP to sell you the wheelchair. You can search the table on the Government of Ontario ADP microsite here. A really good therapist will take care of this for you too.
5. Mail the form to the Assistive Devices Program.
6. Wait. It may take up to 8 weeks to get approved for the wheelchair, but I don't despair. There are also wheelchair loaner programs available through agencies like the Red Cross

Note:

They must measure you properly. 

Here is a video showing how to measure a person for a wheelchair from the Derbyshire Wheelchair services in England. It is the first video I came across showing this. If you find a better one, please post a note in the comments below.

Sources:

• Mobility aids | Ontario.ca

Have a great day,

Su