by admin | Oct 4, 2021 | Blogs
In other news, an elderly Eastham couple staying in their 42 year old home got stuck in their living room and were forced to sleep there for over three days because their vertical platform lift would not operate.
The Conclusion? Proper maintenance and upkeep of assistive devices are a must.
Whether new or used, vertical platform wheelchair lifts provide easy accessibility solutions to people with mobility issues who are either convalescing or disabled. A new/ used porch-lift or any other vertical platform lift offers the convenience of moving across spaces while making it possible for them to enter, exit, or even negotiate every architectural barrier a location has to offer.
Proper maintenance ensures safe, worry-free, and smooth lift operation taking away the stress of an unpleasant surprise such as the one the Eastham couple had to go through. Lack of regular upkeep not only disrupts the wheelchair lift service but avoids downtime and unnecessary hassles.
With that being said, here are a few tips to maximize your platform lift investment:
- Daily pre-trip inspections can reveal every potential problem, damage, and issue due to wear and tear.
- Maintain a proper lubrication schedule, and professional upkeep should be performed ideally after a certain number of operating cycles or a regular time interval. The operator’s manual provides more specific details regarding maintenance of the lift.
- Apart from the daily wear and tear due to the usage, other external conditions such as weather, contamination, and other environmental factors may require inspection and appropriate maintenance measures.
- Make sure that in no case the wheelchair lift is not made to carry beyond its capacity. Even if it’s a used vertical platform wheelchair lift, it’s not designed to carry freight. These smart mobility assistive devices have been designed to carry a certain weight to function properly. If a platform lift is used to carry weight beyond its rated weight capacity, damage can occur to the lift.
- Proper installation is a must. Most new or used porch lifts require the installation of an outdoor gate on the upper landing. Other extra modifications might be necessary to prevent damage from shearing hazards.
- Choose a lift that conforms to safety code standards. A reputable manufacturer will typically manufacture their wheelchair lift to conform to current standards.
- Make sure you don’t use the lift unnecessarily. If you have kids at home, the key can be removed which prevents unauthorized use.
- Different wheelchair platform lifts require professional inspection and cleaning depending on the type of drivetrain and the installation location.
Vertical platform wheelchair lifts are an excellent addition to a home for improving access to people struggling with mobility issues. However, regardless of the brand and amount of money you are investing in a wheelchair lift, proper maintenance is necessary to keep it performing at its best. Regular servicing keeps a wheelchair lift operating at its peak. So, keep these tips in mind to prevent future damage and repair costs.
Are you looking for quality refurbished and used vertical platform wheelchair lifts? Independent Living Solutions can help you find an ideal fit within your budget. Browse our online inventory or connect with us for any queries.
by admin | Oct 1, 2021 | Blogs
Restricted mobility stops aged people and people dealing with health conditions such as arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, etc., from living their life independently. They reluctantly have to rely on others to move from one place to another be it indoors or outdoors. This really damages their sense of independence. However, if seniors or people with limited mobility have a mobility scooter with them, they experience a new level of independence and freedom. These power-operated vehicles run on rechargeable batteries and allow people with mobility issues to get around quickly and easily.
Since there are different types of mobility scooters in the market such as three wheel scooters, long-distance scooters, full-size scooters, and four wheel scooters, it essential to have an idea in mind how you see yourself using a mobility scooter. Doing this will make the decision of buying a mobility scooter easier for you. In this blog, we will talk about four wheel mobility scooter and discuss why it is a better option than three wheel mobility scooter. We have listed some points for this purpose. Let’s take a look at them.
Stability
The foremost thing that makes four wheel scooters better than three wheel ones is their stability. The problem with the latter is that it can tip when entering and exiting curb cuts, dealing with inclines, or making turns at high speed. You won’t have to worry about these problems with a four wheel mobility scooter. If you want a scooter for a wide range of uses, we will recommend you go for a four wheel scooter. However, if you need a scooter for small spaces and indoors, three-wheel scooters are better as they are amazing when it comes to turning in tighter circles.
Comfort
If comfort is something that you really want in a scooter, then you’ve got to get a four wheel scooter. It can offer you a comfortable ride on different types of terrain as its four wheels can effectively absorb bumps along the terrain. You also get better leg room with these scooters and in some models, more room to position your feet thereby providing more comfort. Since a mobility scooter is a vehicle that people with mobility issues will be using a lot throughout the day, it is essential that comfort is taken into account before buying this vehicle.
Safety
Safety is another aspect that cannot be overlooked when buying a mobility scooter. Since four wheel scooters can offer you better stability, it won’t tip while riding over rough or uneven terrain. Four wheels also ensure that weight is distributed evenly, which also plays a key role in keeping the vehicle stable. In addition to all this, these scooters also have a wheelbase that is broader, wider, and sturdier.
As you can see, four wheel mobility scooters are better in a lot of different aspects. However, this does not mean three wheel scooters or other scooters such as heavy duty scooters, portable scooters are not good. Each scooter is designed to meet the needs of the rider. Therefore, you should do proper research before buying a mobility scooter for yourself or a loved one. At Independent Living Solutions, Inc, you can buy all types of mobility scooters in Denver at an affordable price. Call us at (303) 463-8200 to learn more about our products and services.
by admin | Sep 29, 2021 | Blogs
It’s horrible seeing yourself or a loved one struggling with stairs at home. And, why would you do if you can fix the problem with an inclined platform wheelchair lift? These lifts can provide the wheelchair user with the desired support without putting their safety at risk, ensuring improved mobility and self-reliance for the user.
Here’s how:
Stairs – no more barriers
With inclines platform lifts (IPLs) by your side, stairs remain no barriers. They are similar to vertical platform lifts except the way they move. While VPLs move in a vertical direction, these lifts travel along the inclination of your staircase while leaving stairs clear. The best part is, IPLs can be installed on both straight as well as curved staircases.
Convenience at its best
While IPLs require significance space for installation, they are truly worth it. They can be installed on the existing staircase (if they are wide enough) without making much space adjustment. In this way, they are suitable for homes with multiple floors, making it as convenient as possible for your elders.
Smoothness and quietness
For people confined to wheelchairs, it is not just basic arrangements that they need to lead a quality life. They need these arrangements to be as convenient as possible. IPLs make a point here as well. They don’t make a lot of noise and their operation is quite smooth, offering the required peace of mind to the wheelchair user without compromising on mobility.
Cost-efficiency
For long-term mobility requirements, these lifts are among the most cost-efficient ways to ensure mobility in a space with stairs. They seem expensive at first but they pay it back in the long run – making it worth every dollar spent. Your purchase options and preferences may differ from one case to the other. While you may prefer buying a new IPL for a long-term disability, you may want to save money by purchasing a used one for a temporary requirement.
Safety
With restricted mobility comes the risk of getting injured. IPLs put an end to this by providing the wheelchair user with a safe mode of transportation between the floors, ensuring improved mobility and safety altogether. You can further research on this or discuss it with the support team and make a purchase only after being sure about it.
Independence
IPLs provide senior people and the ones with a disability with a platform that supports them in traveling up and down a staircase, promoting mobility and independence. This sense of independence boosts their confidence that is visible in everything they do, from enjoying outdoor activities more to connecting with their surroundings in a better way.
The bottom line
Inclined platform lifts are quite useful for homes with people with a disability. These lifts come with great safety features. You can purchase a new product or go for a used one, whichever best fits your budget.
In case you’re looking for an inclined platform lift, you can reach out to us and get one for your space.
by admin | Sep 27, 2021 | Blogs
People with restricted mobility may find it challenging to get to the next floor. Curved stairlifts can make it possible for them. No matter how many turns your staircase has, you can always enjoy continuous access. However, their high prices may become a problem if you have a restricted budget. To combat that, you can opt for reconditioned stairlifts for curved stairs and enjoy the same quality for a fraction of cost.
Is it a good idea to buy a used one?
Different people may have different opinions on using refurbished products. But if you look at the safety features, reconditioned stairlifts offer the same functionality as new curved stairlifts. With reconditioned stairlifts for curved stairs, you can enjoy the same performance with a smaller investment.
Safety
Safety is a priority for stair lift users. Refurbished curved stairlifts are thoroughly tested before they are available for sale. So, they offer the same level of safety as new curved stairlifts do while moving between floors.
Ease of access
With a stair lift, you can easily access your house from bottom to top. It becomes an easy task. They are easy to operate and come with useful features that make it possible for you to keep using them throughout the day without a hassle. And, the ease of use is not compromised if you choose to buy a used stairlift.
Comfort
You’re most comfortable when you know you’re safe. Our state of the art products provide you with the needed mobility. A curved stairlift is just another option which provides the maximum ease of use. No matter whether you’re buying a new curved stairlift or reconditioned one, you can enjoy maximum convenience.
Continuous movements
With a used stairlift, there is nothing stopping you – not even the budget. While curved stairlifts are loved for offering people continuous movements between two or more floors, reconditioned stairlifts offer the same solution at a lesser cost.
Independence
You cannot have someone to help you navigate different corners all the time. And, you don’t want it, too. So, what’s stopping you? Those stairs, not for sure. Get a refurbished stairlift installed at home and enjoy the same independence without breaking the bank. There’s nothing better you could do to restore your freedom.
Injury prevention
Elders with a disability are always at risk of injuries. They stay at home most all the time. Moving between the floors safely requires a curved stairlift while minimizing transfers. Thanks to refurbished stairlifts that prevent injuries just like new ones do.
The bottom line
Stairlifts make life easy and enjoyable for people with physical disabilities. They can move to different floors, enjoy independence, and feel safer at home. If you have budget restrictions, you can buy a refurbished stairlift and enjoy the same benefits without breaking the bank.
In case you’re looking for a used curved stair lift for sale, reach out to us today.
by admin | Sep 17, 2021 | Blogs
Although the concept of home elevators and stairlifts to improve accessibility across a home space for the elderly and people with disabilities isn’t new, the market continues to see improvements and innovations. If you are thinking about installing an unenclosed vertical platform lift in your space, you are likely to be in a dilemma considering the number of options and features available in the market. After 20 years of dealing with the supply of superior quality assistive products from various reliable manufacturing brands, in this blog, we will be sharing our learning to help you make the best of your investment.
ASPECTS FOR CONSIDERATION
1. LOCATION
The spot of installation will decide whether your space requires any refurbishment or not. The footprint of your lift choice will depend upon the arrangement of the doors and the space needed in front of the entrance to access the lift. This includes the way your door opens and closes.
2. PRODUCT TYPE
An open/ unenclosed vertical platform lift doesn’t have a hoistway. When a lift passes through a floor it is required to have a hoistway.
3. SAFETY FEATURES
Depending upon the location of the lift, you need to consider the safety features being offered by the manufacturer. It’s better to go for one with a landing gate or a mini door for the top landing to prevent accidental falls and trips. Another noteworthy feature is the presence of a pit or a ramp.
4. USED OR NEW
This is where your budgeting and cost come in. in all fairness, refurbished used wheelchair lifts for sale or any other platform lift is just as good as a new one. You get every benefit and perk at a substantially low price. With a reliable supplier of quality used wheelchair lifts for sale, you will be able to attain all the benefits the manufacturer has to offer in a new one. Also, depending on the amount of usage and your plan to upgrade your space, you can go for either of the options.
5. SIZE
Size indeed matters here. Every manufacturer provides the dimensions of space needed for installation. This footprint varies depending on the size and configuration of the wheelchair lift.
6. KIND OF DRIVE SYSTEM
The most common drive systems used in platform lifts are guided chain, screw drive, and hydraulic. It’s better to read the product manual, check out the info guide, and talk to your supplier regarding the choice that would be ideal for you. This way, you will be able to assess and understand the implications of the drive system for functioning, performance, longevity, and other space requirements.
Apart from the six aspects mentioned above, your choice will depend on your utility and unique requirements that might not be generic as these points discussed. If you would like some expert guidance, talk to us at (303)-463-8200 today!
by admin | Sep 15, 2021 | Blogs
Who says finding the right lift chair recliner is going to be easy? Since there are so many options in the market in terms of fabrics, sizes, and features, needless to say it can get a bit difficult to choose a one that meets all your needs. You will face this problem if you do not know what to consider when shopping for a lift chair recliner. In this blog, we will make the whole process simpler for you by telling you what to factor in when buying a lift chair. Let’s get started.
Your Body Weight And Height
It would be foolish to shop for a chair without taking into account the size of the person who will be using the chair. Each recliner chair has a weight capacity and we will advise you to get a chair that is ideal for your weight. Ignoring this might put you at risk of injuring yourself. And to make sure that your head and legs get proper support while sitting on the chair, buy a chair that is perfect for people of your height.
Your Purpose For Using It
A lot of people get surprised at this but it is essential to consider how you will use the chair. Are you going to use it for purely sleeping or daily use, or both? Once you know this, it will become easier for you to determine how many motors your recliner chair needs to have. There are two recliner chairs in the market. One comes with one motor and others come with two motors. Go for a one motor lift chair if you will use your recliner chair for only daily activities. Two motor lift chairs are ideal for those users who plan to sleep on their chairs with great comfort.
Color of The Chair And Its Fabric
Normally, you will find four options for upholstery type, namely spill-proof fabric, vinyl, synthetic leather, and fabric. And what’s great is that there many color options with each upholstery type. So, it will be easier for you to find a chair that will go well with the interior of your house. What upholstery type and color you decide to go with is purely your call.
So, there you have it. When shopping for the best power lift recliners for elderly people, do not forget to take into account the above-mentioned points. At Independent Living Solutions, you can find world class power lift recliner chairs. If interested, get in touch with us today by calling at (303) 463-8200.
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