Navigating day-to-day life tasks can be more difficult to manage while using a mobility aid like a wheelchair or scooter. There are many solutions to keep you or your loved one safe in these instances. Earn some of your freedom back and lift your spirits by investing in a wheelchair lift. These lifts both improve the accessibility of your home or business, and they can also keep you and your family safe. The question top of mind for most is how big of an investment is a wheelchair lift. Is there any way to afford one within a tight budget? In this post, we will go over what a wheelchair lift is, how much one is, the factors that influence that cost, and provide some wheelchair lift alternatives that may work in your home.
What is a Wheelchair Lift?
A wheelchair lift is a device that is meant to safely lift individuals who are seated in a wheelchair or scooter. The purpose of these lifts is to help individuals navigate terrains that are difficult to manage on their own. Vertical platform lifts, also called VPLs, can be used to provide access between floors, they can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications.
All wheelchair lifts, regardless of the manufacturer, have certain safety features to keep the user safe and ensure smooth movement of the lift. These can include non-slip materials to keep the wheelchair stable in the lift, guardrails for users to hold on to for stability, and an emergency stop switch or button to have the lift come to a safe and controlled stop.
Average Cost of Wheelchair Lifts
On average, professionally installed residential wheelchair lifts often start at $15,000. However, the answer is not that simple, as the cost of purchasing and installing a wheelchair lift varies depending on factors such as the type of lift, additional features, the complexity of the installation, and the location where it is being installed. Some installations need the assistance of an electrician or general contractor, for example, if a porch needs to be built to provide safe access to the building. Some jurisdictions also require a permit.
Factors Affecting Wheelchair Lift Costs
There are a few different factors that impact the total cost of a wheelchair lift, and it is important to keep these in mind when choosing the right lift for your home.
The style of lift you choose will also affect the total cost. Unenclosed, enclosed, shaftway, and hybrid lifts each have different assembly and installation processes, which means that the cost of each is going to vary.
The cost of a wheelchair lift also varies depending on the size and weight capacity of the lift. The more stops the lift needs to make and the distance it has to travel also impacts the cost.
Installation Costs
Having a professional install your wheelchair lift is important to make sure that the lift is constructed correctly and functioning properly. Professional technicians trained by the manufacturer are certified and licensed in how to properly assemble and install wheelchair lifts.
Some factors that play into the cost of installing a wheelchair lift can include the labor costs to install the lift, the brand of lift that you choose, the difficulty of the installation process, and the cost of materials to assemble the wheelchair lift.
Maintenance and Warranties
Regular maintenance of your wheelchair lift can help prolong the life of your lift and prevent more serious and costly malfunctions down the road. It is also important to keep in mind the longevity and durability of the wheelchair lift you choose. Choosing a lift with a long warranty and from a company with a good reputation can save you money on repairs and make sure that your wheelchair lift lasts for many years to come. The peace of mind and independence that a wheelchair lift provides can make the investment worthwhile.
Alternatives to Wheelchair Lifts
If a wheelchair lift does not seem like the right fit for your needs, there are alternatives to consider. If you are looking for a safe method of navigating the stairs without needing to transfer your mobility aid from floor to floor, then a stairlift may be the right choice for you. These lifts can provide a safe method of going up and down the stairs for users who can easily transfer from their wheelchair to the stairlift.
Another alternative is a home elevator, which looks very similar to the elevators you find in hotels or other commercial buildings. These home elevators can help users move to different floors of their home without having to deal with the stairs. They are customizable and can be tailored to the design and style of your home. If the concern is mainly about moving objects between floors, then a dumbwaiter can help transport objects so you can keep your hands free while going up and down the stairs.
Contact DME Elevators & Lifts for Wheelchair Lift Services
Wheelchair lifts provide a sense of freedom and security for individuals who use a mobility aid like a wheelchair or scooter. They can make your home and business more accessible and safer to navigate. No need to sacrifice your freedom and independence. There are a few factors that affect the cost of investing in a wheelchair lift, including the size of the lift, the brand of lift you purchase, and the installation process.
Thinking about investing in a wheelchair lift but not sure where to begin? Consult a professional at DME Elevators and Lifts for a consultation and personalized advice on the costs of a wheelchair lift and how to find a lift within your budget. We offer affordable indoor and outdoor wheelchair lifts in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana.
