the Chairlift web site

Introduction

Impaired mobility may occur due to a variety of different conditions, but similarities appear as people with mobility impairments need assistance with getting around. Mobility products are types of adaptive equipment that provide assistance with moving and transportation. These types of devices come in many different forms for use, depending on specific needs. Using adaptive equipment breaks down many obstacles that can otherwise hinder movement and the ability to travel.

Wheelchairs

Wheelchairs provide a means of movement for people who have difficulty with walking. They are created for a sitting or reclining position while the user navigates on wheels. Some wheelchairs are considered to be manual, in that the occupant propels the wheelchair forward by turning the wheels with his arms. Other, electric wheelchairs are powered by battery and move with a steering lever. Many wheelchairs also have handles that allow a user to be pushed and directed by someone else from behind.

• The Children’s Hospital: Discusses why some people need to use wheelchairs. The information is geared toward explaining concepts to children.
• Cure CMD: Information explaining the different uses, advantages and disadvantages between power and manual wheelchairs.
• Wheelchairs: A comprehensive explanation of different types of wheelchairs. Includes diagrams and practical information about subjects such as seating, wheels and armrests.

Chair Lifts

Navigating a wheelchair through different levels of buildings or getting into and out of vehicles can be difficult, and not all structures are created to accommodate wheelchairs. Chair lifts provide a means for a person in a wheelchair to change levels, such as situations that require use of stairs, by mobilizing the wheelchair in the form of a lift. A person in the chair maneuvers onto the chair lift and is mechanically moved up or down. Chair lifts may also be used in vehicles, and a wheelchair user may position her chair onto a lift before being raised into an accessible van or other vehicle.

• Clock Mobility: A brief explanation of the importance of wheelchair lifts for getting into and out of a vehicle.
• Lift Chair Guide: A comparison of chair lifting devices, such as chair lifts and stairlifts in terms of function and cost.
• McKinley Elevator Corporation: A description of some of the different types of elevators used to lift wheelchairs. Explains some in-home models and uses for various situations.
• Wheelchair Lift Guidelines: Frequently asked questions about using wheelchair lifts, accessibility and maintenance from the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.

Stair Lifts

Stair lifts provide a method of going up or down levels for those who may have difficulty navigating stairs. A stair lift is a type of seat that is positioned at the top or bottom of a flight of stairs along the railing. The person using the stair lift can be seated on the chair and mechanically moved up or down the stairs as needed. Stair lifts provide mobility for those who live or work in structures with different levels, and also add a measure of safety to prevent falls when trying to navigate a stairwell.

• Affording Stair Lifts, Ramps and Wheelchairs: Information about what to look for in purchasing assistive devices for mobility and how to pay for items from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
• Bruno Stairlifts: Bruno stairlift and its uses, affordability and specifications.
• Quest Magazine Online: An article discussing the positive uses for stair lifts and how they offer an increase in mobility for some people.
• Silver Cross: A mobility aid manufacturer that compares different types of stairlifts according to their weight, seating height and other features.

Scooters

A mobility scooter is a mechanized vehicle that provides help with walking and short forms of transportation. A scooter is usually powered by battery and includes a seat and a steering bar and runs on three or four wheels. The occupant is able to drive the scooter, turn, brake, speed up or slow down, depending on direction and particular need. Many mobility scooters may be used indoors or outdoors. They are sometimes used to replace wheelchairs, but also as an alternative for those with low stamina or who need extra support with getting around.

• Maintaining Mobility: An article about some types of mobility products, including scooters, as well as important information to consider when choosing equipment.
• Rascal: Information, support and photographs of a type of folding scooter used to enhance mobility.
• Scooters: Basic guidelines for how to use a mobility scooter, as well as sources of further contact information for dealers.

Mobile Stander

A mobile stander is a type of wheelchair that provides movement for those needing assistance with walking. Instead of sitting, this type of device assists the user with movement while in a standing position. The mobile stander provides the navigation of a wheelchair while recognizing the benefits of standing, such as bone support and promoting circulation. Some types of mobile standers offer several positions and the user can choose to sit, recline or stand, depending on the situation. These types of devices reduce many limitations by allowing for increased movement and changes in posture.

• Easy Stand: Frequently asked questions about the physical advantages of standing as related to using a movable standing device.
• Mulholland Standing Systems: A brochure that briefly explains some of the different types of standing and positioning systems as well as advantages and disadvantages of using this type of mobility approach.
• New Mobility: An article discussing the new technology of standing wheelchairs, including some information about insurance coverage, and descriptions of some major companies that manufacture these products.
• Taking a Stand: A review of the benefits of using mobile standers from the Muscular Dystrophy Association.