Having a disability often means that you have to rely on others to help you do simple tasks, such as climbing the stairs, getting into a car or even getting into the bath. Today however there are aids in which we can purchase and have installed in order to give back confidence and even independence to those who suffer from disabilities.
Here are but a few of the devices that we can buy on today's market:
Stair lifts
The chair lift is a mechanical piece of apparatus that allows people who cannot walk the ability to get themselves up and down stairs with relative ease. If your stairs are wide enough, a rail will be fitted to the threads of the stairs. Once this is done a chair or lifting platform will be attached to the rail. Anyone using the chair or platform will be able to lift themselves using the device to the first floor.
You may find in your search for stair lifts that they may have other names such as, chair lifts or stair gliders. This type of chair lift should not be confused with the chairlift used by skiers.
Did you know that the first company to start production of stair lifts, was a company based in America called the "Inclinator Company of America" back in the 1930's. Many of their users at this particular time were victims of polio.
Vehicle Access
Vehicle access chair lifts are specially designed to assist people by getting them in and out of cars, thus giving even more independence to the user.
The vehicle access chair lift works by unfolding a platform from the vehicle to the ground. A wheel chair can then be wheeled onto the vehicle (via the non-skid platform) and the user seated and then secured (seatbelt). Once the user is fastened into their vehicle and ready to leave the lift simply folds up and out of the way of the way.
Here are some advantages to using this kind of system:
- Exclusive split-platform design allows clear access to the vehicles interior.
- Powerful hydraulic pump ensures smooth, stable operation for heavy wheelchairs and scooters.
- All-steel frame features convenient handrails for increased comfort and security.
- Stable, non-skid platform with automatic inboard and outboard roll stops accommodates most wheelchairs and scooters.
- Pre-lubricated bearings at all major pivot points offer long-term durability.
- High gloss, polyester powder coat finish resists corrosion.
- Built in manual backup system.
- Usually comes with a limited warranty.