Wednesday, 28 December 2011

Why Should I Get A Wheelchair Lift?

There are two reasons why you may currently, or one day, need a wheelchair lift in your vehicle. The first is that you may be elderly or have a disability that requires you to use a wheelchair, and the second is that you may be the carer for someone who is wheelchair bound.

For many people, a wheelchair lift can give them a new lease on life. If you yourself are wheelchair bound, a lift would give you the opportunity to get out of the house more and to do so in comfort. If you care for someone who is elderly or disabled, a lift can reduce the physical strain placed on you as it minimises heavy lifting and allows you to easily assist a disabled individual. This can be especially significant as people who may have before needed help to transport a wheelchair (such as the elderly, or pregnant women) are now able to do it themselves at the touch of a button.

If you have decided that you should invest in a wheelchair lift, you have two options: to buy a pre-modified vehicle, or to have your existing vehicle (if it is suitable) fitted with a wheelchair lift mechanism. Most mini-vans, buses and 4-wheel-drive type vehicles are suitable for such an installation.

Lifts can also be fitted in a way that best suits the vehicle and the type of wheelchair needing to be transported. A single-arm platform lift is only used for side-entry to a vehicle and is handy for cars that have minimal interior space (as it doesn’t take up much room). On the other hand, a dual-arm platform lift takes up a lot of interior space and, so, is often mounted in the back of the vehicle.

The purchase of a wheelchair lift is an important decision that anyone who is in a wheelchair or who cares for someone needing one should consider.

Monday, 19 December 2011

How Big does Your Wheelchair Van Need to be?

These days, wheelchair vans come in all shapes and sizes. With modern ranges giving you a much more varied choice than the traditional bulky accessible vehicles, you can choose a vehicle to suit your needs and wants exactly. Before you buy an accessible van, however, you should probably put some thought into how big your vehicle needs to be.

The smaller accessible vehicles have an instant appeal because of their stylish, compact look. Driving a compact wheelchair van allows for a more 'normal' driver and passenger experience and removes the stigma of the traditional accessible vehicles. The very small wheelchair vans, however, may compromise on comfort and spaciousness in favour of style, and will only be able of carrying one mobility challenged passenger. That said, if you want to drive your own accessible vehicle, a small vehicle will give the most liberating feel.

If you will regularly, or even infrequently, need to drive more than one mobility challenged passenger, a larger accessible vehicle is a more appropriate choice. There are many models available which comfortably fit a few mobility challenged passengers at a time, as well as some more able bodied passengers. With larger accessible vehicles it is important that you ensure each passenger space allows a clear window view for the passenger, so that they don't feel boxed in.
Another crucial feature in large wheelchair vans, as well as in accessible vehicles generally, is easy and quick loading of wheelchairs. This is important in making every journey more enjoyable, whether it is a major trip or just a run to the shops.

Friday, 21 October 2011

How Vehicle Conversions are Beneficial for Disables

Being disabled is tough when you find yourself immobile and fully dependent on others for moving to far distance, but not anymore. Vehicle conversions have come up as an instant solution for those having partial disability. People having lower body non-functional now have reasons to be happy. By converting their regular vehicle into wheelchair accessible van, they can experience the joy of driving vehicle of their own. Thanks to the advancement in science and the teams of scientists which are working hard to provide them the chance to live normal life. They have invented several equipments and accessories that can add convenience to the driver having disability.

The best part is that, even after vehicle conversions, it can be driven by normal drivers, having both the options to use. Using such conversions they can independently drive without any external assistance. A vehicle can be converted fully into a wheelchair accessible vehicle by installing accessories and fitting, like hand controls, pedal modifications, wheelchair docking, multifunctional control, parking assistance, seat modification, breaks and accelerators, electric steering and so on. These equipments are completely safe and are meant to simplify vehicle driving.

Besides, these adaptations are easy to install and fits in almost all vehicles. Even you can install by reading the help book provided with the product. However, it is advisable to hire some professional for this work so that safety features do not get compromised. After all, your safety is above all. Readily available adaptation tools for vehicle conversions have truly made the life of disables seamless and independent.

Friday, 30 September 2011

Get Wings of Freedom With Wheelchair Accessible Cars

There are many people suffering from physical injuries, arthritis, or spinal cord defects. In each of the cases, patient loses his freedom to move without support. Such sense of immobility is more painful than the injury itself, especially for those who have permanently lost their mobility. But, now it’s time to say good-bye to your limitations. With wheelchair accessible cars you can get your freedom back.
These cars are especially meant for physically challenged individuals and allow them to drive vehicle independently. Getting such car is not difficult anymore. You don’t even need to spend thousands of bucks to buy your freedom. You can convert a normal car into wheelchair accessible car with fewer adaptations. If your car have automatic transmission, it is not difficult at all.
Few of the adaptation tools that can be used in the cars are hand controls or portable hand controls. If you install any of them you will make your driving comfortable. Adding other enhancements, like remote starter, remote controls and a cell phone as a source of communication will make your driving safer and prepare you to deal with accidental issues.
These adaptation tools for vehicles are easier to install and you can do it yourself. However, it is better to contact professionals if you want to ensure that the attachments don’t falling apart while driving. On the other hand, wheelchair accessible cars are also manufactured by few specific companies. It is also a good option if you want to get a full fledge wheelchair accessible cars. So, what are you waiting for? Get your wings of freedom today!