Vertical wheelchair lifts can be very helpful for those with a physical disability, as well as aged individuals who often spend most of their time in their wheelchairs and have limited mobility.
A vertical wheelchair lift, or platform lift, is powered by either hydraulics or electrical energy. This device allows an individual in a wheelchair to be elevated or lowered between floor levels without having to leave his/her wheelchair.The vertical wheelchair lifts come in many different models, such as:
- Enclosed Model – In this vertical wheelchair lift, the wheelchair and its occupant can stay on top of a platform while enclosed with walls as the lift moves up/down. This type of lift is especially practical for outdoor uses where safety may be compromised because of altering weather conditions.
- Shaftway Model – This kind of wheelchair lift can fit within existing walls, just like a typical elevator. It is useful in both residential houses and public establishments.
- Stage Model – This lift model features solely a platform. It is commonly used for shorter heights or elevations, such as on a stage or onto a vehicle.
- Opal Model – This vertical wheelchair lift is similar to the enclosed model that has a platform enclosed with walls. However, this lift model has an open ceiling.
Vertical wheelchair or platform lifts can be used in different locations. Vertical platform lifts give wheelchair-confined individuals a better way in to and out of their homes, since they can be raised from the ground up to their elevated (or with steps ) front porches. In schools or similar institutions, vertical wheelchair lifts are installed to give access to physically handicapped students, faculty and staff, and visitors to enter an auditorium stage or other elevated platforms. Some public buildings already have elevators installed, but they still opt to install vertical wheelchair lifts for this special need. Also, many older buildings have cramped areas that do not have spaces to accommodate ramps. That is why they prefer to have vertical platform lifts installed rather than the space consuming ramps.
For more information about vertical lifts visit Adapted Home and Business.
Article adapted from disabledliftssite.com