People lifters
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Introduction
Freedom to get around often means using a wheelchair and a car. More agile people can step out of a wheelchair and into the car, or slide from one to the other. If this is not possible, the devices described in this guide may help. There are three types:
What are people lifters?
There are three types.
- Hoists. You sit in a sling, and a hoist lifts you up so that a helper can move you into the car by pushing the hoist’s arm. The hoist then lowers you onto the car seat. Go to Hoists section for details.
- Lifting seats. The car seat swings out of the car and lowers down to a convenient height. You sit on the seat and it lifts you into the car and then lowers and locks into whatever position suits you. Go to Lifting seats section for details.
- Wheelchair systems. A specially designed wheelchair slides into the car while you are sitting in it, to become the car seat. Go to Wheelchair systems section for details.
Another option is a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) which you travel in while in your wheelchair. Go to WAVs section for sources of information and for a list of firms which adapt standard vehicles for wheelchair users.
This is the fourth edition of the guide. Information on products, including prices, was updated in 2004 while contact details were updated in 2005.
Motability acreditation scheme
Motability (see Finance section) has an accreditation scheme for vehicle adaptation and conversion companies. All adaptations for Motability customers must be carried out by companies accredited under this scheme. In addition, Motability has introduced Codes of Practice for certain adaptations, including people hoists. They lay down standards for such things as safety, ease of use, quality, reliability, installation and maintenance.
In 2004 they also introduced a standard specification for all wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) supplied to Motability customers to ensure consistent quality standards of construction.
Table of contents
Introduction
Hoists
How
they work
Fitting
Using
the hoists
Comfort
and dignity
Hoists
- summaries and verdicts
Lifting
seats
Wheelchair
Systems
Wheelchair
systems - summaries and verdicts
WAVs
Safety/reliability
Buying
guide
Finance
Helpful
organisations
Mobility
Centres
Suppliers
