Choosing wheelchair lifts for home use require careful planning. According to a recent study, about 53 million Americans live with a disability, with limited mobility being the most common. While a scooter or wheelchair can help a person move around more, they will need extra assistance if their home has stairs either inside or outside. If increased mobility is the goal, then choosing between the good wheelchair lifts for home use should be a priority.
Which of the Wheelchair Lifts For Home Usage Should You Choose?
The wheelchair lifts for home usage are treated differently by the law and various regulations than the patient lifts meant for public use. Accessibility standards must be met with lifts just as with wheelchair accessible ramps. Also, installing a lift of some sort in one’s home may help an elderly patient live safely and securely in their own home for longer which those adults 65 and older, about 90% have stated they would prefer to live in their own home according to the AARP and the National Conference of State Legislatures.
The Pros and Cons of Platform Lifts.
A platform lift is actually similar to having an elevator in your home. The difference lies in that while a platform is open, an elevator is enclosed. Platforms rise straight up and down, and are great for getting around multi-storied homes. These can be indoors or outdoors. However, they do require a significant amount of space to operate.
The Pros and Cons of Incline Lifts.
The incline lift is used over stairways, and therefore travels diagonally. While the platform lift takes up quite a bit of room, the incline lift does not. Most options can even be moved out of the way when not in use to allow for other household members to move about easily. This option may be more feasible for most, although it does require the user to be removed from their wheelchair.
Auto Lifts: Staying Mobile Around Town.
While technically not in the exact category of the wheelchair lifts for home use, an auto lift does fulfill an important part in the life of a person with mobility concerns. For those patients who require their wheelchair when out and about, an auto lift can help them enter and exit the vehicle easily. However, this option does take up quite a bit of room in a vehicle for all of its sturdiness.
When looking into lifts to assist with mobility, it is important to understand what your requirements will be. If your home has the room for it, a platform lift is sturdy, holds securely, and is fairly simple. An incline lift takes up less room, and can be moved out of the way when company comes over. Auto lifts are a good option to have in a vehicle for when you plan to be about town. No matter which type you choose, remember to look for a good brand that has been in the business for a long time, and that has good customer reviews.
