Americans and Canadians have many things in common – language, food, music, and a friendly border between the two countries. What most people don’t know is both countries have the exact same percent of population with physical mobility issues.
Within the Canadian population there are nearly 3.7 million people (13.7 percent of the total population) with mobility issues. This data was published in an article called, “Canadian Survey on Disability, 2012 Seeing disabilities among Canadians aged 15 years and older, 2012.”
For Americans, that number is also 13.7 percent of the US population – as noted in a CDC research report called, “Disability Impacts All of Us.”
With both countries having significant populations wheelchair bound, it is important that technological innovations work toward helping wheelchair users become more mobile. One area where new innovations in accessibility technology is helping is the wheelchair lift. Also known as a vertical or elevator lift, these devices are used to enable people with mobility challenges to access upper levels of a home or commercial building. In this blog post, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about the latest innovations in Wheelchair Home Lift Technology. You will also learn about different types of lifts and their features, cost breakdowns for typical installations, and much more. So read on to get up-to-date on everything you need to know about wheelchair lifts!
What is a Wheelchair Lift?
A wheelchair lift is a device that uses a hoist system to raise and lower a wheelchair user or mobility device to a higher floor or level in your home. Wheelchair lifts are used in homes and businesses, as well as public areas like schools, hotels, and hospitals. They can also be installed in vehicles, providing an easy way for people with limited mobility to get in and out of cars and SUVs. These lifts are also known as elevators for wheelchairs, vertical lifts, and wheelchair lifts for stairs. These devices are very useful for people who have mobility challenges and find it difficult to climb stairs. They are also useful for people with disabilities who are unable to lift themselves from one floor to another.
Types of Wheelchair Lifts
Wheelchair lifts can be broken down into two types based on their use and mounting location: – Wheelchair lifts for stairs – Wheelchair lifts for level travel
Wheelchair lifts for stairs
Stair lifts are designed to go up and down stairs, such as a home’s staircase. They are the most common type of wheelchair lift, and are typically installed as an indoor or outdoor lift. There are two types of stair lifts: – Stair-ascent lifts – Stair-descent lifts Stair-ascent lifts raise a wheelchair or mobility device up the stairs. They are not recommended for individuals who are immobile or can’t push a button to activate the lift. They are, however, good for people who can push the button themselves. Stair-descent lifts lower a wheelchair or mobility device down the stairs. They are recommended for people who are immobile, and are suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
Wheelchair lifts for level travel
These lifts are designed for smooth and level travel, such as between rooms and floors in a single-story home. There are two types of level lifts: – In-floor lifts – Wall lifts In-floor lifts are installed beneath a floor, and use a track system to move a wheelchair or mobility device. They are usually installed in commercial settings, such as stores, or in a home’s garage or workshop. They are designed for one-way travel, and are recommended for people who can’t push a button to activate the lift. In-floor lifts are also suitable for individuals who can’t sit upright. Wall lifts are suitable for one-way travel. They are installed in a wall and are designed for individuals who are able to push the lift’s push-button.
How do Wheelchair Lifts Work?
When operating a wheelchair lift, a person first selects the destination floor or level. This is followed by a sequence of steps to select the wheelchair lift itself. After the individual is seated, the wheelchair lift is activated by pressing a “raise” or “lower” button. The wheelchair lift then moves the individual vertically between floors or levels. When the lift reaches the desired destination, it automatically stops and the individual can exit safely. Wheelchair lifts are powered by an electric motor that is either installed above the lift or on a nearby wall. The motor uses electricity to control the speed of the lift’s descent or ascent. Some lifts are designed to stop automatically when they reach the correct floor or level.
Key Features to Look for in a Wheelchair Lift
Before purchasing a wheelchair lift, it’s important to understand what features are available. Not all lifts are created equal, so it’s important to find one that meets your unique needs. Here are some features to keep an eye out for: Speed – Generally, the faster a lift descends or ascends, the more expensive it will be. Most lifts can travel at a rate of between one and one-and-a-half inches per second. Arm length – The longer the arm on a wheelchair lift, the more space it will take up. This is important to consider when selecting a location for the lift. It’s also important to consider the wheelchair user’s ability to reach the control button. Control button – Some wheelchair lifts have a control button installed inside the seat, while others have a button located on the floor. Some lifts are designed to be controlled through the user’s wheelchair.
Important Things to Consider When Choosing a Lift
When choosing a wheelchair lift, it’s important to consider your unique situation as well as your budget. Here are some factors to keep in mind: #1 Type of lift – There are two types of wheelchair lifts: vertical lifts and stair lifts. Vertical lifts are designed for level travel, while stair lifts are used for indoor and outdoor stair travel. #2 Length of travel – How far does the lift travel? Is it short or long? Generally, the longer the travel, the more expensive the lift will be. #3 Destination – Where does the lift travel? Indoor or outdoor? #4 Location of the lift – Where do you want the lift to be installed? On the wall or above a doorway? #5 Lift mounting type – Where is the best place to install the wheelchair lift? And, is the space big enough to accommodate the lift? #6 Travel direction – Is the lift designed for one-way travel? Or, is it designed to travel in both directions? #7 Power source – Where is the power coming from? Does the lift require electricity or is it powered by a battery? #8 Cost – How much are you willing to spend on a wheelchair lift?
Is a wheelchair lift the right option for you?
Wheelchair lifts are a great option for several reasons. First and foremost, they provide a safe and easy way to travel vertically and between levels. Secondly, when installed correctly, wheelchair lifts are very safe for individuals of all ages and abilities. Furthermore, wheelchair lifts are versatile and can be installed indoors or outdoors. They are also very easy to use and can be controlled through a push button or by the individual’s wheelchair. Wheelchair lifts are not for everyone, however. They are not suited for individuals who are able to climb stairs and are also unsuitable for people with reduced mobility due to illness, injury, or disability. Wheelchair lifts are also not suitable for people who have difficulty pressing a button or have limited mobility in their hands or fingers.
How much does a wheelchair lift cost?
The cost of a wheelchair lift varies greatly depending on its type and size. Generally, indoor vertical lifts are cheaper than outdoor stair lifts. Smaller lifts are also generally less expensive than larger ones. That being said, when shopping for a wheelchair lift, it’s important to get a few estimates. This will enable you to compare prices and get a better idea of how much each lift will cost. The average cost of a wheelchair lift is about $4,500. This is, of course, subject to change depending on the lift’s size and features. When comparing prices, make sure to look for a reputable dealer. This will enable you to find the best possible price and make an educated decision when buying a wheelchair lift.
Bottom line
Wheelchair lifts are a great option for individuals with mobility challenges who find it difficult to climb stairs. They are available in vertical and stair lifts and can be installed indoors or outdoors. They are good for both short and long travel, and can be controlled through the user’s wheelchair or by pressing a button. When shopping for a wheelchair lift, it’s important to consider the type of lift, length of travel, destination, location, mounting type, travel direction, power source, and cost. When deciding which wheelchair lift is right for you, keep in mind that a wheelchair lift is a great way to make
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Source by geekinsider.com