Well-designed lifts are a tremendous asset to those people who are confined to the mobility aid of a wheelchair. Great assistance is available when the chair needs to be transported from one place to another or placed within homes to make it possible to easily go from one area or story to another. Chair lifts are available in a variety of forms and sizes. That includes small ones that are compact and could be stored easily to large platform lifts for heavier electric scooters. There are also lifts that are compatible with certain vehicles.

Types of Stair Lifts

Straight Stairlifts

For those with straight staircases, this lift enables the “rider” to smoothly glide up and down stairs and be able to make full use of his or her home if the residence has more than one floor and the owner wants to make use of it all including the basement and attic for a possible sewing room, office, hobby room, exercise area, workshop, laundry, or such. It also enables the homeowner to go to a place of safety in threatening weather. No structural changes need to be made to the home, and the lift fits easily directly to the staircase and does not have to be attached to the wall. This is a solution that is reliable, affordable, has a low cost to run, and folds away when it is not needed.

Curved Stairlifts

These innovative and modern lifts are actually smooth and advanced modular rail systems that provide a carriage that is self-leveling and moves along comfortably and reliably. Powered automatic hinges and a continuing rail are fitted beginning at a doorway or an opening that is located at the foot of the stairs. A quick and mess-free installation of the curved stairlift also requires no structural changes to the home and fits directly to the staircase and not to the wall. Not only are the running costs low, but the system even operates during a power cut.

Commercial Stair Lifts

When considering the type of vehicle that you need as a transport device for your wheelchair or scooter, there are both external hitch mounted lifts and internal lifts. Dual-post wheelchair lifts for full-size vans, SUVs, and trucks use two hydraulic arms and a platform with strength and stability. A single-post lift with a split platform provides the needed access to the entryway.

Finding a Used Stair or Chair Lift

If you are on a budget but want to maintain your independence in your own home, you might consider a used wheelchair lift at an affordable discount. However, make sure that it includes all the safety features and needed working equipment for your safety and comfort. Buy from a company that completely disassembles, inspects, cleans, lubricates, replaces any parts or batteries necessary before assembling and testing the lift so that you can have peace of mind that it will operate properly and has been customized for your individual requirements.