Buying A Wheelchair In Singapore: Prices, Lightweight Options And Subsidies

Looking to buy a wheelchair in Singapore? The right choice depends on more than price. It should fit the user comfortably, support their weight, suit their daily routine and remain manageable for the caregiver.

There are many wheelchairs in Singapore, including caregiver pushchairs, self-propelled wheelchairs, lightweight travel models and motorised electric wheelchairs. This guide explains the main differences and what to check before buying.

How Much Does A Wheelchair Cost In Singapore?

Wheelchair prices vary according to the chair’s weight, frame, wheels, folding design, seating features and whether it is manually or electrically powered.

These are current price examples from The Singapore Wheelchair. Prices and availability may change.

Wheelchair Type	Best For	Current Price Examples
Caregiver pushchair	Appointments, outings and assisted use	From S$155
Self-propelled wheelchair	Users who can move the chair independently	From S$155
Lightweight travel wheelchair	Cars, taxis, travel and compact storage	Available models from S$249
Manual wheelchair with added comfort features	Regular use and easier transfers	From about S$259
Wide-seat or higher-capacity wheelchair	Users who need more space or support	From about S$359
Motorised electric wheelchair	Powered mobility and greater independence	From S$1,199

View the latest prices in the complete wheelchair collection.

Which Type Of Wheelchair Should You Buy?

Caregiver Pushchair

A pushchair has smaller rear wheels and must be pushed by another person. It is often lighter, more compact and easier to lift into a car.

It is suitable for elderly users, medical appointments, shopping trips and anyone who will usually have a caregiver. Compare the available caregiver pushchairs.

Self-Propelled Wheelchair

A self-propelled wheelchair has larger rear wheels with hand rims. It allows a user with suitable upper-body strength and coordination to move independently.

It may be heavier and wider than a pushchair, but it gives the user greater control. View the self-propelled wheelchair range.

Lightweight Travel Wheelchair

Many families search for a lightweight wheelchair in Singapore because they need to lift it into a car, store it at home or bring it on trips.

A lightweight foldable wheelchair can be easier for a caregiver to handle, especially when travelling by taxi or private-hire vehicle. However, the lightest model is not automatically the best. It must still fit the user and provide the necessary comfort and support.

Explore lightweight travel wheelchairs in Singapore.

Motorised Electric Wheelchair

An electric wheelchair may suit someone who cannot comfortably self-propel and wants greater independence. Before buying, compare the chair’s weight, turning space, battery, controls, maximum user capacity and servicing support.

Six Things To Check Before Buying

1. Who Will Move The Wheelchair?

Choose a pushchair if a caregiver will always assist. Consider a self-propelled model if the user can move independently, or an electric wheelchair if powered mobility is needed.

2. Does The Seat Fit The User?

Check the user’s height, weight and seated hip width. A seat that is too narrow can be uncomfortable, while an unnecessarily wide seat may provide poor support.

3. Can The Chair Support The User’s Weight?

Never exceed the manufacturer’s stated weight capacity. Choose a wide-seat or higher-capacity wheelchair when required.

4. Can The Caregiver Lift It?

Check the wheelchair’s actual weight, including any cushions or parts that remain attached. The caregiver should be able to fold and lift it without excessive strain.

5. Will It Fit At Home And In The Car?

Measure narrow doorways, lift entrances, storage areas and the car-boot opening. Also check the wheelchair’s dimensions when folded.

6. Are The Features Suitable?

Consider brakes, cushions, armrests, footrests and anti-tippers. Flip-up armrests or detachable footrests may make transfers easier for some users.

Someone with complex posture, pressure, transfer or medical needs should consult a doctor, physiotherapist or occupational therapist before purchasing.

Can You Get A Wheelchair Subsidy In Singapore?

Eligible seniors may receive help through the Seniors’ Mobility and Enabling Fund, also known as SMF. The scheme covers approved mobility devices such as wheelchairs and pushchairs.

According to the Agency for Integrated Care, the main conditions include:

• The person must be a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident aged 60 or older
• The person must live in the community rather than a nursing home or MSF home
• An approved healthcare professional must assess the equipment required
• Household monthly income per person must be S$4,800 or less, or the property’s annual value must be below S$21,000 when there is no household income

If approved, SMF may cover up to 90% of the device cost or the applicable subsidy cap, whichever is lower.

Most importantly, apply and obtain approval before buying the wheelchair. AIC states that purchases made in advance cannot be reimbursed through SMF.

Where Can You Buy A Wheelchair In Singapore?

You can compare wheelchair prices and specifications online, but visiting a showroom allows the user and caregiver to check the fit, brakes, folding method, lifting weight and comfort in person.

The Singapore Wheelchair has a physical showroom at:

5012 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 5
#02-03 Techplace II
Singapore 569876

Contact the team before visiting to confirm the latest viewing arrangements and model availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Best Lightweight Wheelchair In Singapore?

The best lightweight wheelchair is one that fits the user, supports the required weight and remains easy for the caregiver to lift and transport. Consider comfort and daily use instead of choosing only the lightest model.

Should I Choose A Pushchair Or Self-Propelled Wheelchair?

Choose a pushchair when a caregiver will provide most of the movement. Choose a self-propelled wheelchair when the user has suitable strength and wants greater independence.

Can A Lightweight Wheelchair Fit In A Car Boot?

Many foldable lightweight wheelchairs fit into car boots, but this depends on the folded dimensions and the size of the boot opening. Measure both before purchasing.

Can I Claim SMF After Buying A Wheelchair?

No. The SMF application must be approved before the wheelchair is purchased. Purchases made in advance cannot be reimbursed.

Can I Get Same-Day Wheelchair Delivery In Singapore?

Same-day delivery or immediate collection may be available for selected in-stock models. Contact the team to confirm availability and delivery arrangements before ordering.

Find The Right Wheelchair In Singapore

The right wheelchair should be comfortable for the user and practical for the caregiver. Compare the seat size, weight capacity, chair weight, folded dimensions and daily-use features before making your choice.

Browse all wheelchairs in Singapore or visit the Ang Mo Kio showroom to compare suitable options in person.

For faster assistance, WhatsApp Vincent at +65 8380 9998 with the user’s approximate height and weight, intended use and whether the wheelchair must fit into a car. The team can help you shortlist suitable choices before you buy a wheelchair in Singapore.