What to Do with Mobility Equipment When You No Longer Need It

Mobility equipment, aids, and furniture play a crucial role in helping many people maintain their independence and quality of life. However, there comes a time when you may no longer need these items. Knowing how to dispose of mobility aids responsibly is important for both the community and the environment.

Please note that while Coastcare Medical Hire and Sales does not accept second-hand goods from the public, we do offer our own range of ex-hire equipment through our Scratch and Dent Store. All items have been used within our business, thoroughly cleaned, checked for functionality, and sorted, providing an affordable option for those in need of mobility aids.

Assessing the Condition of Your Mobility Equipment

Before deciding on the best course of action for your old mobility aids, it’s essential to assess the condition of your mobility equipment. Consider the following factors:

  • Functionality: Is the mobility equipment still operational? Are all parts intact and working as they should? Is the material clean and free from rips or tears?
  • Safety: Does the equipment meet current safety standards? Has it been well-maintained and stored properly? Are there any safety risks associated with its use?
  • Usability: Can the equipment be effectively used by someone else? Is it possible to thoroughly clean and sanitise it for a new user?

Being realistic in your assessment ensures that you make the most appropriate decision, whether that’s passing the equipment on or disposing of it responsibly.

Selling Your Used Mobility Equipment

If your equipment is in good condition, selling it can be a practical option. Here’s how you can sell used mobility equipment:

  • Online Marketplaces: Websites like Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, and eBay are popular choices for selling second-hand items.
  • Specialised Platforms: Websites such as eBility cater specifically to second-hand mobility aids and equipment.
  • Community Groups: Join local Facebook groups focused on buying, selling, or swapping disability equipment.

When creating your listing, include clear photos and detailed descriptions, mentioning any important specifications like measurements. Familiarise yourself with the platform’s rules and guidelines to ensure a smooth selling process.

Exercise caution when interacting with potential buyers online. Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true or requests to communicate outside the platform’s messaging system.

Keep in mind that while you may have invested significantly in the equipment, second-hand items often sell for less. Set a reasonable price and consider whether the effort involved in selling is worthwhile.

Donating Your Old Mobility Equipment

Donating is a generous way to help those who may not afford new equipment. Specialised organisations can ensure your equipment reaches individuals who need it most. Here is a list of charities and donation stores across Australia where you can donate mobility equipment:

New South Wales (NSW)

  1. TAD NSW

    • Website: www.tad.org.au
    • Accepts mobility equipment to provide customised solutions for people with disabilities.

  2. Wheelchair Sports NSW/ACT

    • Website: www.wsnsw.org.au
    • Accepts wheelchairs and sports equipment for athletes with disabilities.

  3. Ability Options

  4. Northcott

    • Website: www.northcott.com.au
    • Provides services to people with disabilities and may accept equipment.

  5. ParaQuad NSW

    • Website: www.paraquad.org.au
    • Supports people with spinal cord injuries and may accept mobility equipment.

Victoria (VIC)

  1. Solve Disability Solutions

    • Website: www.solve.org.au
    • Accepts mobility equipment to create custom solutions.

  2. Wheelchair Sports Victoria

  3. Yooralla

    • Website: www.yooralla.com.au
    • Provides disability services and may accept equipment donations.

  4. Disability Equipment Recycling Centre

    • Website: www.derc.org.au
    • Accepts used disability equipment for recycling and redistribution.

  5. Very Special Kids

    • Website: www.vsk.org.au
    • Supports families of children with life-threatening conditions and may accept equipment.

Queensland (QLD)

  1. LifeTec

    • Website: www.lifetec.org.au
    • Provides assistive technology services and may accept equipment donations.

  2. Spinal Life Australia

    • Website: www.spinal.com.au
    • Supports people with spinal cord injuries and may accept mobility equipment.

  3. CPL – Choice, Passion, Life

    • Website: www.cpl.org.au
    • Accepts equipment to support people with cerebral palsy.

  4. AEIOU Foundation

    • Website: www.aeiou.org.au
    • Supports children with autism and may accept relevant equipment.

  5. Blue Care

    • Website: www.bluecare.org.au
    • Provides community health services and may accept equipment donations.

Western Australia (WA)

  1. Wheelchairs for Kids

  2. TADWA (Technology for Ageing and Disability WA)

    • Website: www.tadwa.org.au
    • Accepts equipment to customise for people with disabilities.

  3. Ability Centre

  4. VisAbility

    • Website: www.visability.com.au
    • Provides services for people with vision impairment and may accept equipment.

  5. Indigo (formerly Independent Living Centre WA)

South Australia (SA)

  1. Novita

    • Website: www.novita.org.au
    • Supports children with disabilities and may accept equipment.

  2. Minda

    • Website: www.mindainc.com.au
    • Supports people with intellectual disabilities and may accept equipment.

  3. Muscular Dystrophy South Australia

  4. Royal Society for the Blind (RSB)

    • Website: www.rsb.org.au
    • Provides services to the blind and may accept equipment donations.

  5. Autism SA

    • Website: www.autismsa.org.au
    • Supports individuals with autism and may accept relevant equipment.

Tasmania (TAS)

  1. TADTAS (Technical Aid to the Disabled Tasmania)

    • Website: www.tadtas.org.au
    • Accepts equipment to customise for people with disabilities.

  2. St Giles

    • Website: www.stgiles.org.au
    • Provides disability services and may accept equipment donations.

  3. ParaQuad Tasmania

  4. Independent Living Centre Tasmania

    • Website: www.ilctas.asn.au
    • Offers assistive technology services and may accept equipment.

  5. Cancer Council Tasmania

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

  1. Technical Aid to the Disabled ACT (TADACT)

  2. Hartley Lifecare

    • Website: www.hartley.org.au
    • Offers disability services and may accept equipment donations.

  3. Koomarri

  4. Communities at Work

  5. Marymead

    • Website: www.marymead.org.au
    • Supports children, young people, and families and may accept donations.

Northern Territory (NT)

  1. Total Recreation

  2. Life Without Barriers

    • Website: www.lwb.org.au
    • Provides disability services and may accept equipment donations.

  3. Somerville Community Services

  4. NT Friendship & Support

  5. Carpentaria Disability Services

Please contact these organisations directly to confirm their current donation policies and procedures, as they may change over time.

Recycling and Disposal of Old Mobility Equipment

For equipment that is no longer functional, recycling mobility equipment or proper disposal is the responsible choice. Many components like metals, hard plastics, and electronic parts can be recycled. Here’s how to proceed:

  1. Contact Local Recycling Centres: Inquire about what items they accept and any specific drop-off instructions.
  2. Arrange for Collection: Many local councils offer hard rubbish collection services for large items.
  3. Properly Dispose of Batteries: Batteries should not be thrown in regular rubbish due to environmental risks. Use designated battery recycling programs in your area.

By taking these steps, you help reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability.

Explore Affordable Options at Our Scratch and Dent Store

At Coastcare Medical Hire and Sales, we understand that new mobility equipment can be a significant investment. That’s why we offer a range of ex-hire equipment through our Scratch and Dent Store. All items have been used within our business, thoroughly cleaned, and checked to ensure they are in good working condition.

Our scratch and dent products provide an affordable solution for those seeking quality mobility aids at discounted prices. Each item has been carefully sorted and maintained, giving you peace of mind in your purchase.

  • Quality Assured: All equipment is inspected for functionality and safety.
  • Cleaned and Sanitised: Items are professionally cleaned to ensure hygiene.
  • Affordable Prices: Access mobility aids at a fraction of the cost of new equipment.
  • Wide Selection: Choose from a variety of mobility aids to suit your needs.

Visit our Scratch and Dent Store to browse our current selection of discounted mobility equipment.

 

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Airgo Mini Quad Cane Tip

$27.50
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Tri Wheeled Walker

$150.00
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Ellipse Heavy Duty Rollator

$465.00
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Maxi Mack Rollator

$275.00
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Power Chair Whill Model 2C 500mm 136kg

$8,899.00
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Active Air 8 Mattress Replacement (Single)

$2,800.00
+

Air Lift Chair Single Motor Cobalt (Blue)

$2,530.00
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Airgo Ultra Light 6″

$360.00
ultra light weight transport chairultra light weight transport chair folded
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Aspire Socialite (Folding ultra lightweight transport chair)

$875.00
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Mini Mack Rollator

$275.00
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Power Chair Whill Model 2C 450mm 136kg

$8,850.00

When It’s Time to Part with Your Mobility Equipment

Knowing what to do with old mobility aids ensures they are handled responsibly. Whether you choose to sell, donate, recycle, or explore affordable options like our scratch and dent products, your actions make a positive difference in the community and the environment.

For assistance with new or ex-hire mobility solutions, Coastcare Medical Hire and Sales is here to support you with a wide range of products tailored to your needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you maintain your independence and quality of life.