There are a variety of wheel chair lift types available to increase the mobility
and comfort level of the wheel chair user. Car or van lifts are the best known
and widely used. Other lifts might not be as essential as a car or van lift, but
can make life much easier for those who can afford it.
Car or Van
Wheel Chair Lift
Scooter or wheel chair lift for vans and cars can either be an
external lift or an internal lift. An external lift is hitch
mounted and will carry the wheel chair on the hitch of the
vehicle. An internal lift will position the wheel chair in the
trunk or back of the vehicle. Hitch mounted lifts will cost
around $300 dollars and up while an internal lift start at
around $520.
Commercial Vertical Wheel Chair Lift
These
lifts are tailor-made for businesses that need a lift for
disabled workers who need easy access to their offices or other
areas in the building. These lifts cost around $10 000 or more.
Vertical Platform Wheel Chair Lift
While ramps can be used for most areas
where these lifts are used, you might find these more effective
than a ramp that can end up being very long because of the
height-length ratio needed for a safe ramp. Most of the lifts
will assist in areas where there are uncomfortable height
differences and can move the wheel user vertically for up to 12
feet. It can be used inside or outside. For businesses where the
height differences are not that much this will be a more
affordable option than the commercial vertical lift for wheel
chairs. Prices are in the range of $3 500 to $6 500.
Portable
Vertical Platform Wheel Chair Lift
If you only need a lift under certain
circumstance such as a church gathering or community activity,
these lifts are ideal. They can be packed away after use and
easily assembled when necessary. It is easy to transport and can
be used at different locations when the need arises. Prices vary
around $5 500 to $7 500.
Wheel Chair Stair Lift
A stair wheel chair lift is a more
affordable option than a platform lift. It is best suited for
houses with more than one level. The lift fits onto the stairs
and will help people that have difficulty climbing stairs or
that cannot walk, to access all areas in the house. The
convenience of the stair lift is that it can easily fold up and
be out of the way when not in use. Stair lifts are useful for
disabled people permanently staying in a house or even when
there is a disabled parent or family member that regularly
visits. It is easy to install and can be done by anyone within
2-3 hours.
Wheel Chair Bath Lift
A bath wheel chair lift will help the wheel chair
user to use the existing bath in the house and is completely
safe and easy to install and use.
While these lifts are not
very cheap it will make life easier for wheelchair users and
caregivers.
