Showing posts with label mobility vehicles. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mobility vehicles. Show all posts

Thursday, January 26, 2012

Mobility Vehicles For Disability Needs


As we getting older, our health beginning to deteriorate and the energy that we had when we were young has reduced significantly. To many of us, this could mean low energy level, rheumatoid arthritis, muscular pain and deficiency of energy that should not stop anyone from living a life that is pleasant and enjoyable. If you do not like the appeal of wheelchairs, right now there are some other mobility options which you can use to assist you move around and to do various of your needs.

Mobility vehicles, like wheelchair vans, scooters, and wheelchairs are created to assist old people as well as handicapped one or people with health conditions (Multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury and others) to move and do tasks that they expected was never actually possible. All those devices have grown into extremely favored and popular in region like the United States in latest years. Large numbers of families are now more comfortable to be next to each other with their older family members. To move around and do lots of other aspects that they thought were not quite possible any longer. It is a magnificent advantage that such mobility equipment can honestly give to handicapped people.

Those with a spinal cord injury, disabilities, limited dexterity or range of motion and other conditions may need more than low-tech or reduced effort hand controls to operate primary and secondary driving controls on an accessible or handicapped vehicle.

Primary driving controls are input devices that control the gas/brake and steering functions. Secondary controls are all other electro-mechanical functions such as lights, wipers, shift, etc.

In comparison to a normal wheelchair, electric mobility (like power chairs) tool provides a lot more mobility as well as better range of movement. Wheelchairs need to be hand controlled and for a person with weak arms, this could perhaps be a problem. The handles of the mobility scooter are much easier for disabled person and they allow better maneuvering of the vehicle and offer more fluidness in drive. Corresponding to the version you select, you might choose for more maneuverability with 3 wheel scooter while a 4 wheel model offers more balanced handling. Like a result you can ultimately enjoy getting benefit of such vehicles for both indoors and outdoors conditions.

Wheelchair accessible vans provide many different features for the efficiency of persons operating wheelchairs. All those mobility vans have the capacity for one or two wheelchairs. On particular demand, they could be transformed to satisfy mobility scooters also. Front and rear air cooling system is optional. They are also provided with 4-point or 5-point tie downs for the wheelchairs, alongside seat belts. Total hand controls, 6-way power seat in driver position, power-assisted steering, and external entry controls are also present as other different components.

The ramps of conventional wheelchair vans are commonly spring counter-balanced, bi-fold manual ramp type, with magnetic anti-rattle provisions. Most van dealers additionally incorporate electronic or hydraulic operated ramps. Yet still, the manual types are more trustworthy and easy to handle.

When passenger conversions for handicap vans are concerned, there are certain changes that are must. The floor has to be reinforced; seats have to be added; wheelchair securements have to be installed; hoist or ramp has to be installed; windows have to be installed; van lining and finishing should be modified.
If you are interested in buying or renting Mobility Vans - Mercedes Benz Sprinter, Honda Odyssey, Dodge caravan, Chrysler Town and Toyota Sienna Wheelchair Vans visit Better Life Mobility Centers in San Diego, California. Contact us for all information you need on Handicap Vans

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

What To Look For When Buying Used Mobility Van


Instead of buying a brand new wheelchair vans, you can choose to get a used mobility van. Ideally, you want to contact a qualified person about your particular needs, including limitations of the wheelchair user, seating specifications and specialized equipment that’s to be installed in the van.
Along with so many vans having a reconstruction before they hit the showroom floor, more and more used mobility vehicles are being available for purchasing. A pre-owned mobility vehicle will fit the payments for lots of people and carries an reasonably priced way to accomplish independency. Be sure to find a dealer that has many different pre-owned mobility vehicles in their stock, instead of than just one or two. They will most likely be able to recognize your needs and discover the ideal fit for you. For the majority a used mobility vehicle is the only alternative as the cost of a new one can be far more than is acceptable.

Right before buying a previously owned handicap vans, look at some options about the modification into your aspect to consider. Take a look at the specific options that the vehicle will arrive with, such as the controls, pedals and other. Getting started with the ignition, determine if it is a dash installed control, or a turnkey on the steering wheel. For most people, this turning motion is upsetting or they simply just cannot do it. Walk true at the mechanics of the vehicle, discover the transmission system type. Most commonly, an automatic transmission is going to be the best fit as a manual transmission involves switching of gears while you are driving and operate of a clutch as well.

On the interior of the van, look over the many types of controls. Are the switches big enough and easy to find? Search for a mobility vehicle that offers electric power locks and windows. This is a must have, most especially for individual that suffers from upper body mobility difficulties. Bench seating are usually more pleasurable and offer the maximum space too. Search over the van and test drive it to be absolutely certain that you are fully satisfied. This is the most significant consideration. If extra transformations are necessary, consult with the dealer to see if that will be possible. Many previously owned mobility vans will offer automated ramps and lowered ground floor for easier entering and unloading wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

The independence that a mobility vehicle will achieve far overshadows any investment they cost. As well as with having an increase in your mobility outside the home it will build up an increase your self esteem. For many that suffer from a handicap or mobility issue, depending on others can lead to depression and even further health problems. Having the independence to go to the store, go shopping at the shopping centers or lunch with old friends will lead to a great top quality of live. That is the objective for any person, and a mobility vehicle can be the initial action in order to achieve it.

If you are interested in buying or renting Mobility Vans - Mercedes Benz Sprinter, Honda Odyssey, Dodge caravan, Chrysler Town and Toyota Sienna Handicap Vans visit Better Life Mobility Centers in San Diego, California. Contact us for all information you need on Wheelchair Vans

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Toyota Sienna Mobility Van


The Sienna minivan now has a first of its kind in-line factory installed rotating power lift up seat. We proudly call it the Toyota Auto Access Seat (AAS). Toyota is the not only the first manufacturer to offer a factory installed lift seat but we are the only North American automaker to offer this mobility option directly to our customers.

The ENC mobility vans are easy to operate and they offers the most interior space in the industry. This wheelchair accessible conversion features power kneeling system, custom ground effects, remote entry, power side passenger door, and removable front passenger and driver seats. Every one of ENC's models have been life-cycle tested at the FTA testing facility. And, then, they test them again on their track - the only manufacture-owned track in the industry - using even more rigorous requirements. All are front, side, and rear crash tested. Standard Sienna features:

• 14" Lowered Standard All Stainless Steel Floor,
• 31" Wide x 54" Long Automatic Folding, Swing Out Ramp System,
• ADA 56" High Entry Door, Lighting, and Grab Handles,
• OEM Load Leveling Height Control Rear Suspension,
• OEM Remote Control Entry,
• Custom Ground Effects,
• Removable Front and Passenger Seats.

Optional Features:
• Center Row Seat,
• Retractable Wheelchair/Passenger Restraint System,
• Non-Skid Flooring,
• Protective Carpet Mat.

The new auto access seat offers a new level of comfort and convenience to anyone who may need a little extra assistance getting in or out of a mobility van. The new Sienna with Auto Access Seat (AAS) provides a much needed transportation solution for caregivers of an elderly parent or spouse with a walking disability, disabled veterans, and parents of a child with a disability.

Detailed below is a video that highlights all of the features and benefits of the new factory installed auto access seat. The auto access seat is available on the LE or XLE grade Sienna mobility van manufactured Princeton Indiana assembly plant. It offers ease of use with one touch operation from a wireless remote control that minimizes the amount of effort to get in and out of the Sienna. Some of the features include:

• Seat rotation of 90 degrees with a lift capacity of 330 pounds,
• It lowers to within 19” from the ground with 4” of side travel and reclines up 24 degrees,
• Built-in safety features includes a system override that prevent the seat from functioning if the mobility vans is not in the “park” position, if the sliding door is not completely open or if an obstruction is detected,
• A single audible beep will indicate normal operation, while two audible beeps indicate an obstruction or other symptom has occurred and ceases operation until remedied,
• The all-new Sienna with Auto Access seat meets all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and comes with a comprehensive 3-year / 36K mile factory warranty from Toyota and can be serviced by your local Toyota dealership.

If you are interested in buying or renting Mobility Vans - Mercedes Benz Sprinter, Honda Odyssey, Dodge caravan, Chrysler Town and Toyota Sienna Handicap Vans visit Better Life Mobility Centers in San Diego, California. Contact us for all information you need on Wheelchair Vans

Monday, January 9, 2012

Some Essential Questions on Mobility Vans


Mobility vans are designed and manufactured as ordinary passenger vans targeted at the mass market. A van conversion is the process where a van is customized with a wheelchair ramp or a wheelchair lift. The interior is also modified to provide easier and spacious access for disabled person on a wheelchair. When buying a mobility van you have to consider what you want from the vehicle, how much space you need in it, what colors you like, what wheelchair lift to put inside it, your preferences on interior color, brand, side doors, rear doors etc.

Safety

Safety is important for any vehicle. When it comes to safety all vehicles needs to be tested to see just how well they withstand in the event of an accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration sets specific standards to ensure a vehicle can endure impact from the front, back and both sides. While many are standard of regular vehicles, anytime a vehicle is modified, its best to ensure those safety measures are retained. In addition, when a vehicle contains a lift or ramp, it's important that safety issues surrounding those additions are considered. Any kind of modification made to the car will have an effect to it's rigidity and safety. Even though the original mobility vans have passed a crash test the converted van may not have been tested before. Please, choose only from manufacturers / seller that has passed the crash test for their conversion units.

When buying a mobility van

Like stair lifts, power wheelchairs or any mobility products, mobility modified vehicles have many options. It is important that you get the right vehicle for your needs. You should try vehicle before you buy. Not sure what you'll like best? Try renting vehicle first. Your dealer will reimburse rental fees if you end up purchasing the vehicle.

Big question also is to decide whether you'll buy directly from the dealer and get it converted at your local licensed adaptive equipment dealer, or buy a van from a mobility manufacturer, secondary modifier, a factory direct seller, or online. In a case of online shopping, be sure to try them out too. Different people have different needs and requirements. Also make sure you have a local service arrangement for your mobility van.

Full size van or mini van

The big difference between mobility converted full size and mini vans is that these firs one require a wheelchair lift, while a Mini Van uses a wheelchair ramp. Most of the disabled people feel more secure on a wheelchair ramp and there is always the very small chance that a wheelchair lift will fail leaving you stuck on your lift. Almost everyone who will drive the vehicle from their wheelchair will need to lower the floor of their vehicle. When seated in a wheelchair you are almost higher than a standard vehicle chair, so in order to see out of the vehicle properly the floor will need to be lowered. 6 to 10 inch drops are common for converted vehicles. Raising the roof has the advantage of making the vehicle easier to enter for the user and passengers.

Need Mobility Van or mobility scooter? Buying or renting Mobility Vans visit Creative Mobility Online. We are happy to answer all your questions about Mercedes, Honda, Dodge, Toyota and Chrysler Mobility Vans.

Monday, November 21, 2011

Benefits For Disabled Veterans


Veterans of the United States armed forces may be eligible for a broad range of programs and services provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These benefits are legislated in Title 38 of the United States Code. The Veterans Administration may have programs that cover all or part of your expenses, depending on the nature of your disability. Disabled Veterans grants are available for veterans who have been given a power/manual wheelchair by the VA and are in need of transportation of their mobility equipment. Ask today about disabled veteran mobility equipment grants! The following grants are available for those who qualify:

·         One time vehicle grant (4502) of $11,000 to be used towards a vehicle.
·         Vehicle mobility equipment grants to help with the cost of vehicle conversion for adding a wheelchair lift and/or lowered floor handicap accessible ramp van…
If you are a disabled American veteran, you have even more options:
·         One time vehicle grant may be available,
·         Exclusive lending program for veterans with credit problems or outstanding medical bills,
·         Trade in your van every two years with VA adaptive mobility equipment grants,
·         Mobility dealer should process all bank and VA paperwork and handle VA inspections for you.

Automobile Adaptive Equipment Program

This program provides equipment and training necessary for certain service-connected patients to enter, exit and operate a mobility vehicles, once they have been awarded an Automobile Grant by VBA (Form 4502) and completed Driver’s Training with an approved driver’s evaluator. If a patient does not meet the service-connected criteria to operate a vehicle (loss of or loss of use of a limb or alkalosis of one of both hips and knees), they can still be approved for equipment to enter and exit a vehicle. There are further criteria and exceptions. Please see your local prosthetics Chief for more information.

Home Improvement & Structural Alterations (HISA) Grant Program

Home Modification Grants up to $60,000 to make your home accessible, convenient and enjoyable. The HISA grant is provided for the improvements and structural alterations a veteran needs to access his or her home and essential bathroom facilities. Examples include ramps, railings, lowered countertops, flooring, widened doorways and handicapped accessible bathrooms. The one time monetary limit ($1,200 for non-service-connected patients and $4,100 for service-connected patients) is dependent upon the veteran’s service-connected rating. You may qualify for additional equipment:
  • Wheelchair (manual & powered)
  • Durable Medical Equipment (DME)
  • Patient Lifts (wheelchair, seat, etc.)
Dealer must help you figure out what equipment you need with a personal mobility assessment and match you with the right handicap vans, wheelchair, and mobility equipment. What's more, they should make it all work together seamlessly right here on site, and provide repairs and service when you need them. For more information please call your local VA Prosthetics office. Remember you'll need service and repair. Make sure your mobility center offers service by technicians who are trained and certified in the wheelchair brand you prefer. Also ask that they have parts on hand, so you don't have to wait long for repairs.

For more info on mobility vehicles like handicap vans visit Better Life Mobility Centers in San Diego and Las Vegas. We will do whatever it takes to make sure your mobility needs on wheelchair and other products are met.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Luxury Mobility Vehicles


Although minivans are a popular choice among mobility vans users, a full size van can provide more interior space and headroom. For those that have specialty equipment or just want extra space, the Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon Denali, Mercedes Benz or Cadillac Escalade full sized mobility van could be the perfect option. These mobility vans are considered luxury vehicles due to its customization, maximum space and variety of interior options. The Chevrolet can be equipped with leather seats, overhead cabinets, sofa, walnut dash trim and other features to meet your stylish needs.

Luxury transportation is not something you should have to give up when it comes to purchasing a mobility van. It is important that you keep your style. These stretch conversion vehicles are known for their extravagant features sparing no expense. They are completely customized for those who like to indulge. Some of the many optional features include moon roofs, captain chairs, satellite TV, special lighting, Xbox 360, granite counter tops and the list goes on. You don't need to give up the leather seats, tinted windows, or superior performance to have wheelchair accessibility. Live a life without limitations.

The customized features aren't the only things that make them unique they also come with a variety of lift options to make your life easier. The Ricon Slide-Away Lift is known for its strength, safety and accessibility. When not in use the lift travels to the back of the vehicle providing optimal interior space and prevents obstruction from the side doors. The mobility van can also be equipped with the Ricon Uni-Lite. This is one of the lightest, smoothest and quietest lifts on the market. Its ease of use also makes it one of the most popular. The Ricon Reliant and Ricon KlearVue are other options suitable for the luxury mobility van. While the Ricon Reliant is known for its compact design and reliability the KlearVue offers a unique folding design that eliminates blind spots and obstructed views leaving them both excellent additions to the mobility vehicles.

What about mobility trucks? Your mobility dealer should understand that a wheelchair accessible van may not be for everyone. They can provide both trucks and SUV's which have already had a conversion or we can modify your existing Truck or SUV to make it fully wheelchair accessible. Why would you drive a mini-van when you could drive a truck? For years, wheelchair users have not had the option to drive a 4 x 4 truck. GoShichi LLC has changed the playing field and it is not level. Now you can have a rugged vehicle that can take you comfortably down the road or across an open field. We have engineered a lift system that will put you behind the wheel of one of the most capable, adaptable vehicles on the road today. Whether you need to haul a load of rock, tow a boat, or just feel safe driving down a snow covered road, a GoShichi pickup truck is for you. 

You need to pay attention when it comes to safety all vehicles are crash tested to see just how well they withstand in the event of an accident.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration sets specific standards to ensure a vehicle can endure impact from the front, back and both sides. Mobility vans needs to be rated with the highest score on the front and side crash car test rating by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Need mobility scooters or scooter lifts? Buying or renting mobility vans, visit Creative Mobility Online. We are happy to answer all your questions about Mercedes, Honda, Dodge, Toyota and Chrysler Mobility Vans.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Home Accessibility

For people who are disabled, a typical home layout can be challenging, from getting up and down the stairs to simply using the bathroom. With a few home mobility adjustments, you should be able to fully enjoy your home with ease. Ceiling mobility lifts are indispensable accessibility tools for people who need assistance transferring safely from bed, a chair, or the floor to your wheelchairs. The variety of slings available provides a safe solution for virtually everyone. Without pulling, tugging, or struggling, you can transfer from one area to another with dignity.

Voyager Ceiling lift

A track lift system that gives you all the versatility and flexibility you will ever need. Whether you are transferring a patient from a bed, chair or floor, the portable Voyager will always give you the same dependability and reliability. Wide range of slings will help you in all types of situations. Here are some features:
·         Weight: 5.5kg (12lb),
·         Vertical display speed: 4cm/sec (1.6in/sec),
·         Lifting capacity: 200kg (440lb),
·         Up to 30 transfers with load of 80kg (180lb),
·         Soft start & stop movement,
·         Strap length: 2.2m (88in),
·         Emergency lowering device,
·         Automatically stops if the strap is twisted,
·         Emergency stop of the mechanism,
·         Aluminium frame,
·         Current limiter,
·         Fire retardant plastic cover.

VPL-3100 Home Platform Lift

Porch lift works like a house elevator. It is comprise of a square or rectangular platform, which serves as the flooring of the lift. The wheelchair is rolled on the platform piece, locks it in, and there you go. Sometimes called a porch lift, Bruno's rugged and reliable wheelchair lift is a residential lift that provides efficient access to a raised deck, porch, or even floor to floor access inside your home. Designed and built by Bruno's master artisans, a Vertical Platform Lift offers safe, dependable service that reflects the unit's simplicity of design and operation. Here are some features:
·         Weight: 5.5kg (12lb),
·         Vertical display speed: 4cm/sec (1.6in/sec),
·         Lifting capacity: 200kg (440lb),
·         Up to 30 transfers with load of 80kg (180lb),
·         Soft start & stop movement,
·         Strap length: 2.2m (88in),
·         Emergency lowering device,
·         Automatically stops if the strap is twisted,
·         Emergency stop of the mechanism,
·         Aluminium frame,
·         Current limiter,
·         Fire retardant plastic cover.

Bath Lifts
A steamy bath or shower is not only an essential part of life, but it can help you forget the stresses of everyday life — especially if it is easy to get in and out of without worry or assistance. A Bath Lift: A padded, reclinable bath lift, such as the Bellavita Bath Lift, can help you sink into a warm tub of bathwater independently. Be sure your lift is easy to install and operate and the controls are waterproof and float.
When you are planning to purchase mobility lifts, it is better to take a research first of the company that you are going to deal with. Make sure that their products comply with the safety standards of the government. Need help customizing your home for optimal mobility? Find a dealer who will help you to identify mobility solutions, compare brands, and find the home mobility solution that fits your budget. Whether you need a chair lift, a stair lifts, or any other mobility device, ask for professional advice.

For more info on mobility vehicles like handicap vans visit Better Life Mobility Centers in San Diego and Las Vegas. We will do whatever it takes to make sure your mobility needs on wheelchair and other products are met.