Being confined to a wheelchair can feel like being tied to an anchor at times—especially when it restricts your mobility in your own home. If you live in a multistory home, a wheelchair lift installation can return some of that mobility to you, allowing you to move independently between floors of your home. However, it’s important to choose the right type of wheelchair lift, and making that choice can seem daunting. Keep reading to learn how to choose the right wheelchair lift for your home.

Understanding Types of Wheelchair Lifts

In order to choose the right type of lift, it’s important to understand what types are out there. Here’s a brief overview of the types of wheelchair lifts that are on the market, along with their pros and cons:

• Vertical Platform Lifts: Vertical platform lifts, also known as VPLs, are one of the most common types of wheelchair lifts used in homes. They operate like mini-elevators, transporting both you and your wheelchair vertically (as you might have guessed from the name) between floors. VPLs work best for short distances, such as from ground level to a porch, or perhaps between floors of a split-level home. They have a compact design suitable for indoor and outdoor use and are safe and reliable. However, they’re not usable for transporting between floors of your average, two-story home.
• Inclined Platform Lifts: Inclined platform lifts (IPLs) are designed to transport you and your chair along the path of your existing staircase. These lifts are great for homes where a traditional elevator or VPL isn’t useful. IPLs can be installed on both straight and curved staircases. They’re ideal for homes with limited floor space, but they do take up a chunk of space on the staircase, which can make it difficult for other users to access the stairs.
• Portable Wheelchair Lifts: These are a versatile solution for temporary needs or if you frequently travel between different locations. These are generally lightweight and can be easily transported and set up as needed. They’re usually used for accessing stages, vehicles, or temporary structures. They’re cost-effective and don’t require permanent changes to your home; however, that temporary nature means they’re not as durable or reliable as permanent installations.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lift

Now that you know a bit more about the types of lifts available, let’s dig a little deeper into how to pick one. There are numerous factors you’ll need to consider when making this choice so you can ensure it meets your specific needs. Here are a few of the factors you’ll need to keep in mind:

• Available Space: The amount of space available in your home will have a big impact on the type of lift you’re able to install. VPLs require a certain amount of clearance around them, while IPLs need a large portion of the space on your stairs. Measure the area where you would like to install the lift, and consult with a professional to determine whether it’s sufficient space for a lift.
• Weight Capacity: Different types of lifts have different weight limits. Make sure that you choose one that can easily accommodate the combined weight of you and your wheelchair. Make sure there’s enough “wiggle room” so that you can still use the lift even when you’re carrying other objects with you.
• Indoor vs. Outdoor Use: Whether you’re using the lift indoors or out will make a big difference in which options are available to you. Outdoor lifts must be weather resistant, so make sure anything you buy is rated for outdoor use. In general, VPLs are best for outdoor installations.

Budget Considerations

While budget is a very important factor to keep in mind, we’ve chosen not to list it above because costs can vary widely, even within all of the categories we mentioned. Installation requirements, the exact model you choose, and any additional features you pick will always add to the cost, regardless of the type of lift you choose. So, generally speaking, it’s a good idea to establish what type of lift you want, then pick the exact model you want based on your budget and the other factors mentioned above.

Finding the Right Wheelchair Lift

Choosing the right wheelchair lift for your home can be a major choice that will have a lasting impact on your mobility and independence at home. Understanding the different types of lifts available and how to choose between them is essential to finding the right lift and reclaiming your independence. If you need help finding a wheelchair lift for a home in Louisiana, contact K N Enterprise, LLC, and speak to one of our experienced professionals. We’ll help you find the right lift to meet your needs.