4 Reasons to Get a Wheelchair & Platform Lift

A wheelchair & platform lift is a convenient, cost-effective way for people with mobility challenges to easily access porches and decks — but when do you actually need one? When is a wheelchair ramp better? 

Generally, a wheelchair & platform lift is ideal for people with limited mobility who lack the space for a wheelchair ramp or want an easier way to enter and exit their homes. Wheelchair & platform lifts are popular among wheelchair users and seniors who have difficulty climbing stairs.

However, there are many factors that play into the decision to buy a vertical platform lift. Our team has been selling and installing porch lifts for over a decade, and we’re passionate about connecting you to the accessibility equipment that’s best for you. That’s why we’re going to break down what a wheelchair & platform lift is and explore four reasons you might want to invest in one.

What Is a Wheelchair & Platform Lift?

A wheelchair & platform lift, also known as a porch lift, is designed to improve accessibility for people who use mobility devices like wheelchairs, powerchairs, and scooters. As the name suggests, these lifts are used to help people access raised porches or decks without having to navigate stairs. (Porch lifts are only installed outdoors while other types of platform lifts can be installed indoors or outdoors.)

Here are four key reasons you might consider buying a wheelchair & platform lift:

1. Wheelchair & Platform Lifts Are Space Efficient

Since wheelchair & platform lifts only move vertically, they take up minimal space. Specifically, they require much less space than wheelchair ramps do, and that’s a huge plus for many homes with smaller or higher porches. And because they’re space efficient, wheelchair & platform lifts require less effort from their users — you simply hold down a lever or push a button.

2. Wheelchair & Platform Lifts Are Built to Handle Any Weather Condition

Unlike wheelchair ramps, wheelchair & platform lifts are essentially weatherproof. Inclement weather like ice or snow isn’t as big of a deal with a lift solution because there are no sloped surfaces to cause problems or slippage. This difference will be most noticeable if you live somewhere that regularly experiences freezing temperatures.

3. Wheelchair & Platform Lifts Require Little Maintenance

Typically, a wheelchair & platform lift doesn’t need any maintenance besides a yearly servicing to ensure it’s still in correct working order. Otherwise, you really just need to clear wheelchair & platform lifts of any leaves, snow, or ice that accumulate during fall and winter. If you’re away from home or won’t be using your lift for an extended period of time, you might want to cover it to keep debris out.

4. Wheelchair & Platform Lifts Offer More Independence

If you can push a lever or a button, you can use a wheelchair & platform lift. This is why these lifts are ideal for people with limited mobility who want to retain their independence. Vertical platform lifts (VPLs) are safe, convenient, and efficient — and they help users with a wide range of mobility challenges.

Explore Wheelchair & Platform Lifts at Next Day Access

Thinking about a wheelchair & platform lift for your home? Let’s make sure you get the best possible setup. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a loved one, your local Next Day Access team will help you find the perfect lift solution for your needs. Contact us for a free home consultation!