Wheelchairs are a terrific mobility aid that has improved the lives of those who are mobility challenged for many hundreds of years. The wheelchairs of today, however, are a far cry different than those used by nobility in the medieval times, and offer much improved functionality. Despite the many advances in wheelchair technology, there is still one obstacle that continues to present a problem for those in wheelchairs. This obstacle is the stairs.



It is hard if not impossible to consistently and safely maneuver the stairs if you are in a wheelchair or if you use a mobility scooter. These types of mobility aids are just not made to climb the stairs, so if you use one, you must be wary of areas that have stairs and plan your route accordingly.

To overcome this obstacle many people install vertical stair lifts at home. A vertical platform lift is a self contained mini-elevator. They offer the functionality of a personal elevator, without the added cost, which is often as a result of the necessity of constructing a shaft for the elevator.

A vertical platform lift is installed alongside a set of stairs and is most often used on the front steps of a home. This is the reason that they are often called porch lifts. With the exception of portable platform lifts, a vertical platform lift should always be secured to a strong base made out of wood or concrete. In some cases, depending on the total lifting height of the unit, it might be necessary to also secure the lift directly to the side of the stairs.

The lift is operated by a control button that is physically mounted to the lift. Many also have wireless remotes available that can control the unit. A person simply drives their mobility vehicle onto the platform and activates the call buttons. The lift then rises or lowers to help the person handle areas of different elevation.

Most porch lifts can support at minimum 500 pounds, but some are able to support much more. Portable platform lifts, very popular among schools and churches, are an exception to this rule and typically have a slightly lower weight capacity, but can be quickly and easily set up and moved.

Many of these types of lifting aids have an available battery backup in the event of a power outage. Most also have a manual override that allows the device to be operated by hand easily in the event of an emergency.

Overcoming the obstacle that a set of stairs presents is something that need not be difficult or over complicated. By using the correct type of mobility equipment, there is virtually no set of stairs that will stand in your way.