Wheelchair Lifts: Opening New Doors

If you or someone you love is in a wheelchair or has trouble walking, than it can be very hard to negotiate staircases of any kind. Often, your whole house is handicapped accessible with the exception of the most important part: the front steps.  Wheelchair lifts are responsible for guaranteeing that millions of Americans maintain their freedom and independence and retain the ability to enter and exit their home. Wheelchair lifts are very similar to elevators and are often referred to as vertical platform lifts. The term vertical platform lift is actually a very fitting and descriptive name. Wheelchair lifts are in essence a platform that is raised vertically to allow people who cannot climb stairs, or those in wheelchairs, to easily go up and down the stairs. The lift travels the distance from the ground to the top of the stairs vertically at a slow and steady pace.

Wheelchair lifts are capable of lifting over 500 pounds distances of 12 feet or more. 12 feet is actually pretty high for a normal home residence and usually lifts of this distance are found commercially in places such as schools and churches. Many commercial operations will purchase portable units that can be moved without disassembly.

Whether you get a traditional wheelchair lift or one that is portable, it will quickly open up new doors. It can be very hard to not be able to leave your home, or to have to rely on someone to help you down the stairs. These units come with an easy and simple to use keypad, which can be operated by the person using the lift, or by a separate individual.

Quality wheelchair lifts made by a reputable manufacturer will provide many years of service. These units are designed to be weather proof and are very rugged and well built, so they can withstand almost all types of weather conditions. The time is now, regain your independence.

Mobility Scooter and Wheelchair Lifts for Your Vehicles

The mobility scooter and the wheelchair are two of the useful medical inventions that are of enormous help to both the handicapped and the elderly. A tandem innovation for these medical equipment is the lift, which can easily bring up electric powered mobility devices (mobility scooter and wheelchairs) on a vehicle’s floor. A mobility scooter or wheelchair lift can be dismantled and can be easily stored, making it good paraphernalia for enabling a weak or disabled individual a ride into an automobile and at the same time allowing the scooter or wheelchair to be transported inside a vehicle. There are two major types of vehicle scooter/wheelchair lifts: (1) Those that can be placed inside the automobile or internal. (2) Those that must stay outside the automobile or external. The type of scooter/wheelchair vehicle lift may depend on certain factors, such as the mobility equipment that would be carried and how the lift would be stored. Internal lifts, or also referred to as inside vehicle lifts, are obviously the type of lifts that you can place inside the vehicle. Such type of scooter/wheelchair lifts may be supplied with either manual or electric power. Some large vehicles, such as SUVs and vans, already have built-in lifts for the passenger’s scooter/wheelchair. A large space in the vehicle’s back or compartment must be taken into consideration when choosing an internal lift to ensure that both the mobility equipment and its corresponding lift will be accommodated. One primary advantage of internal lifts is that you do not have to worry about weather conditions because your mobility aid is safe, protected, and dry inside the vehicle. The second major type of vehicle lift is one installed on the outside of the vehicle, usually at the back. External vehicle lifts must be strong enough to carry the mobility scooter and wheelchair all throughout the travel. External automobile lifts have platforms that tilt back for you to wheel the scooter or wheelchair to have it carried by the car or van. Some external automobile lifts are designed like an elevator where you veer in your mobility device into a platform and will easily and securely raise the wheelchair on the level of the vehicle’s floor or just a few inches above the floor or ground. Such vehicle lift may expose your mobility device to adverse weather condition like rain or snow. This can cause possible damage. However, there is really no need to worry because covers are available to protect your scooter/wheelchair. External lifts are also foldable and can be securely attached at the back of the vehicle. Choosing the most suitable vehicle lift in terms of function and comfort depends on several factors, such as features, operation, and installation of particular lifts. Some have hand-held control buttons and devices, as well as alerts and warnings to identify unsafe conditions. Not all features should be added though, so choose only those that are importantly functional. Different lift models may vary with some specifications, hence asking reliable professionals or manufacturers about the details of the product is recommended. Basic knowledge and information regarding these vehicle lifts (both internal and external) will help you purchase the best mobility scooter or wheelchair lift for your vehicle type.

How to Choose the Right Wheelchair/Mobility Scooter Lifts

Preserving mobility does not only focus on the mobility device, but the lift or carrier that makes transportation of such mobility device possible is also one very important aspect. A wheelchair/mobility scooter lift helps the physically disabled and the elderly to enjoy more independence. The lift is very convenient for these individuals who uses such mobility devices and regularly require transportation of the device from one place (e.g. home) to another (e.g. mall/park). Purchasing a lift is considered a long-term investment. Hence, it is important to realize the benefits of an appropriately selected lift. There are several options when selecting a scooter or wheelchair lift. Quality, durable lifts can be bought with three thousand dollars or less, depending primarily on the added accessories or features. Basic lifts that require manual operation is typically less expensive than motor driven lifts that may need professional installation. When buying a wheelchair/scooter lift, some things must be considered for you to get the right lift that will best suit your needs: • Brand and model of the mobility device that needs to be lifted – Some wheelchair or mobility scooter may need a particular docking device for it to be safely lifted into the vehicle. • Exact make, year, and model of your automobile/vehicle – This is important when buying an internal vehicle lift for your mobility device. • Class of hitch – For external vehicle lifts, a trailer hitch must be installed on the automobile, depending on the required weight capacity. Class II trailer hitches usually have weight capacity of 350 pounds. Class III, on the other hand, can carry up to 500 pounds. In selecting the right hitch for the trailer of your vehicle lift, a snug margin must be allowed. The total weight of the mobility device and the lift’s weight must be at the very least, 10% less than the recommended weight capacity of the trailer hitch. Supplemental factors to consider before purchasing a scooter/wheelchair lift include: • the lift’s weight and size specifications; • material of the lift; • type of operation (automatic or manual); and • Warranty from the manufacturer. After knowing the basics, the consumer is now ready to move on with comparison shopping. Whether buying your lift online or offline, it is still best to review a number of manufacturers and determine which offers the best scooter/wheelchair lift in terms of functionality and price. Selecting the right lift for your mobility device is actually not a difficult thing to do. For a vehicle lift, what you should figure out first is how far do you usually travel. From here, you can already decide whether to have an external or an internal vehicle lift. Also, your automobile’s compatibility to such lifts is of equal importance. There are several manufacturers of scooter/wheelchair lifts. You can directly go to their stores to ask about the details of their lift products. Or, some manufacturers sell their products online for a more convenient shopping. Mobility scooters and wheelchairs can now be easily transferred up or down a number of levels, thanks to this great invention – lifts! Physically handicapped individuals can now optimize and enjoy more their freedom and independence.

Buying a Wheelchair Lift

Buying a wheelchair lift can be a daunting task, especially if you are newly disabled or are purchasing a wheelchair lift for a loved one. There are many types of devices that are referred to as wheelchair lifts but most fall into two broad categories; vertical platform lifts or vehicle lifts.

The most elaborate and expensive type of wheelchair lift is the vertical platform lift. You may have seen this type of wheelchair lift at a commercial building or government office. This type of lift allows the wheelchair user to roll on to a platform and activate a lift mechanism by using controls mounted on the frame. A vertical lift can cost several thousand dollars and requires an expert to install. Additional inspections fees may also be associated with the installation of one of these lifts, depending on local codes and ordinances.

If you are planning on buying a vertical lift, be sure to verify the building codes in your area before laying down the cash. It would also be a good idea to bring in a private contractor to verify that you will be able to safely install the wheelchair lift on your existing structure while still complying with local codes.

Another type of wheelchair lift is the vehicle lift. There are literally hundreds of variations of the vehicle lift. Some types are only for vans with side entry. Other types utilize a boom to lift the chair into the rear cargo area of a smaller mini-van or SUV. The type that you require will depend on not only your needs, but on the type of vehicle that you own.

Most vehicle lifts sold today are of the smaller variety that is primarily used for lifting power wheelchairs or mobility scooters into the trunk of a car or the rear of an SUV. These lifts use a boom or swing-arm to lift the device up and over for easy loading. Then boom itself can be motorized or manually operated and will require a special docking device designed to couple with the specific type or brand of power wheelchair or scooter that you are using.

Now that you have a clear understanding of the types of wheelchair lifts on the market you can now begin searching for a distributor that will be able to meet your needs. More and more consumers are finding that, even with large items such as wheelchair lifts, shopping on line can safe you hundreds of dollars. Often the installation or measurement can also be included, since many on line resellers have nationwide networks of installers.

Buying a Home Wheelchair Lift

A wheelchair lift can be a tremendous help to those who suffer from disabilities and limited mobility. For those who are confined to a wheelchair, whether it be full-time or part-time, having a home wheelchair lift can allow them to move from one level of a home to another more easily than using ramps, or give them an easier way to reach the ground level of a home from the yard in homes such as split-levels. A wheelchair lift can make it much easier on those with disabilities, as well as those who care for them, to regain their independence, and carry out their daily activities.

Choosing the right home wheelchair lift involves making a major decision, but is one that can be determined very easily if you know exactly what you need. Knowing the specific features and requirements that will benefit you most will help in the decision making process. You should determine the size and weight specifications of the lift that you need. Something else to keep in mind is the material that the lift will be made of. Home wheelchair lifts come in a wide variety of styles, including manufacturing materials. If the person using the wheelchair lift has allergies or sensitive skin, then be sure to choose a wheelchair lift that is made from a material that will not aggravate their condition. Also be sure to plan for the convenience of the lift. Home wheelchair lifts also come in a variety of operations, meaning that they can be automatic or manually operated. Be sure to consider the pros and cons of both types, and determine what your individual needs are, regarding the power of your lift. If you choose to purchase a lift that is not automatic, be sure that the controls are conveniently located and easily accessible, in case the person using the lift is alone.

You will also need to check warranty information from the companies that you are considering purchasing your wheelchair lift from. Many offer warranties that last up to four years. Be certain to obtain a copy of the warranty, just in case a problem arises, and compare the different manufacturers warranties to ensure that you are getting the most complete coverage for your purchase. Reviewing several manufacturers is an excellent way to determine which company offers the best lift, with regards to price and functionality. By comparing companies and products, you can ensure that you are receiving the wheelchair lift that suits your individual needs the best, as well as to ensure that you are purchasing the lift that costs you less. With the many styles and models of home wheelchair lifts that are currently available, it is much easier to make an informed decision about the lift that is best for you if you compare pricing and product information.

Buying a home wheelchair lift is a major decision, but one that can be made very intelligently if you have the right information, and know beforehand exactly what your needs are.

Ameriglide Vertical Platform Lifts

Many people today who use wheelchairs or just have trouble walking have discovered the wonders of Ameriglide Vertical Platform Lifts. Ameriglide manufactures only the highest quality home medical equipment that has been thoroughly tested by experienced engineers. Vertical Platform Lifts or wheelchair lifts, as they are often referred to, have helped many Americans retain their independence and liberty.

In older times if you were in a wheelchair it meant that you had to design your entire home around that fact. Elevators were reserved to those who were immensely wealthy or to commercial structures. This made it very hard for those with disabilities. It meant that you would very likely have to sell your home if you did not have some means of entering and exiting your home at ground level.

All that has changed, however, and having a vertical platform lift is like having your own mini elevator. It is no longer necessary to get rid of your home simply because you can not navigate your outside steps. These lifts can safely and carefully support a good deal of weight and can be customized to fulfill virtually any needs. The best part about it is these devices allow you to remain independent. It is possible to go out for a drive, check the mail, or take a stroll through the neighborhood without any outside assistance. These things, that seem so small to those without disabilities, can mean the world to those of us with them.

Vertical Platform Lifts are also a way for us to sleep better at night. This is because we know that in the event of a fire or if something happens to us our loved ones can still get out of the house if they need to.

Vertical Wheelchair Lifts

It is a sad reality that people do not appreciate what they have, and only realize its worth when they lost it. The same goes with our mobility and independence. We, able bodied individuals, perform our daily activities without having to struggle or exert too much effort. Lucky for us, I guess. But for those with limited mobility and freedom, like the elderly and the physically challenged, each activity, even the simplest one, can mean a very big challenge or struggle for them to face.

For those who are confined in the seats of their wheelchairs, climbing the stairs is definitely out of the picture. So, how do they transfer up and down to different floor levels?

Establishments should accommodate guests with impaired physical mobility since this is mandated by law. This is basically the reason behind the existence of elevators and ramps in their buildings. And lately, vertical platform lifts have become available for individuals who move about with their wheelchairs.

There are many types of vertical platform lifts (a.k.a. wheelchair lifts) that can be installed in a property, whether public institutions or residential homes, to assist a person mounted on a wheelchair overcome a few steps or other similar perpendicular barriers.

The powered device has a stage or platform that perfectly fits a wheelchair. The platform is enclosed with walls to prevent the contained wheelchair from stirring while the lift is ascending or descending.

Some countries, like the United States of America, regulate the utilization of vertical platform lifts by setting benchmarks for these devices.

One solid example of a vertical platform lift is the Atlas Vertical Platform Lift introduced by AmeriGlide. This sturdy device makes use of an electric drive system that ensures a reliable and safe operation for its eventual users. This lift can be best used for both outdoor and indoor applications, and for both private and public properties.

The Ameriglide Atlas lift is designed for easy installation and includes everything needed to provide easy access to your residence or business.

For safety purposes, this lift features automatic dual safety ramps on its platform and a safety sensor. Moreover, it has a manual emergency brake to lower/raise the device in case the drive system fails. The AmeriGlide Atlas Vertical Platform Lift is specially designed to abide by the lawful requirements of most safety code in installing and operating such device.

Installing a vertical platform lift is one great way to help wheelchair-bound individuals experience further liberty. When you plan of having one, make sure to confirm the quality standards of that model.

Vertical Platform Lifts in Homes

Vertical platform lifts are primarily used by individuals who use wheelchairs or mobility scooters. They are used to transport a mobility device and its rider up and down the stairs. They are often found in residential settings, but many businesses also use them. This includes places like churches and schools.

A vertical platform lift is designed to support the weight of a mobility device, such as a mobility scooter, and its rider. Most do not support less than 500 pounds and many can support as much as 750 pounds. In many cases a 2 people will ride the vertical platform lift at one time. This is common among husbands and wives, as well as caregivers. Some models are able to travel distances up to 12 feet.

Since most vertical platform lifts are intended for outside use they are water resistant and weather proof. Many also feature a battery backup to make sure that even if the power goes out that the device can still be used. If you intend to install the vertical platform lift in a public area or if you are worried about young children playing on it, it is a good idea to invest in a keyed lock. Most distributors can outfit the porch lifts with locks if they do not already come with one. They are controlled by use of either a set of call buttons or a remote control.

Vertical platform lifts are used by many millions of people. They are like having your own personal elevator and can also be used to transport goods up and down the stairs.