Wheelchairs and the mobility they provide have improved the lives of disabled individuals around the world. They have removed barriers and restored freedom of movement to millions. Unfortunately, wheelchairs can be difficult to manage when a user wants to travel in a vehicle. This is especially true if they use a heavy motorized wheelchair.
The wheelchair lift van was designed to ease the difficulty of long distance traveling for wheelchair users. The wheelchair van is a modified or specially designed van that provides extra room inside and a mechanism for lifting and securing the wheelchair.
Minivans converted for use as a wheelchair lift van usually have a lowered floor to provide extra headroom and ease entry into the vehicle. Control switches are installed in several locations for greater convenience and carpeting is extended to provide floor coverage in areas where seats would normally be. Almost all popular minivan models are available in a wheelchair lift van version.
It's possible to make getting into and out of your van easier without undergoing a full conversion. Wheelchair lifts are either installed in the van doorways or mounted under the doorway. If you already own a vehicle that is compatible with a wheelchair lift, then this could be your lowest cost option.
Companies like The Braun Corporation (www.braunmobility.com) sell what you need to add a wheelchair lift to a full size van. These remote-controlled hydraulic lifts make entry into your vehicle a simple operation. More complete conversions for full size vans usually involve raising the roof and lowering the floor, and adding extra high doors. In some cases, the van's suspension may be enhanced to handle the extra weight of the lift and the wheelchair. The type of wheelchair you use will have an impact on the amount of work needed.
Used wheelchair lift vans are available, but they may be more difficult to find than your average used vehicle due to their specialized functions. It's possible to locate used wheelchair lift vans online. Several online sources provide a nationwide list of available models. Agencies that provide wheelchair lift vans for short-term rental are also a good source of used wheelchair lift vans. In some cases, nationwide delivery service of used wheelchair vans can be arranged. However, even though these vans have been modified for better mobility, remember that they are, after all, vans. In some ways you should treat this purchase as you would the purchase of any used vehicle.
To avoid large expenses for wheelchair van lift repair, be sure to follow all the maintenance recommendations of the lift manufacturer. Most regular maintenance will probably involve minor cleaning and lubrication. Battery backups may need occasional replacement.
In the event that your lift does malfunction, most lift manufacturers provide a repair service for their wheelchair van lift. The ease of maintenance and availability of repair service should be points that you compare when shopping for a wheelchair lift van. While you're comparing conversion equipment, also look for certification by the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (www.nmeda.org).
Wheelchair lift vans restore freedom and independence to wheelchair users. Once again, wheelchair users can travel with their families and resume their active lifestyles.
Wheelchair lift vans make it possible for wheelchair users to maintain an active, mobile lifestyle