Rear Entry Wheelchair Vans

!±8± Rear Entry Wheelchair Vans

Before the mid 1980's there were limited options for the transportation of those destined to live their lives in wheel chairs. Greater attention to this issue is now being brought forward into the eye of the public. There are now higher priorities placed on access to public buildings, malls, department stores, and health care facilities. The emergence of the baby boomer generation and the acknowledgment of society that disabled people do exist spurred the creation of new technology. For many years people with disabilities were forced into a life of seclusion.

It may not be known by many but the invention of the minivan completely changed the life of people confined to wheelchairs. Wheelchair vehicles were only available in the large full size vans. The full size vans were user unfriendly. In many cases the use of these vans were limited to commercial use such a nursing facilities, and ambulatory care. The use of large vans is difficult in high traffic areas and created parking issues. With raised roof configuration entering lower ceiling room facilities such parking garages, drive up windows, and residential garages almost impossible.

Enter the minivan. The minivan was manufactured with the entire family in mind. Most wheelchair van converters now lower the floor ten to twelve inches instead of raising the roof. With the combination of lowered floor and automated ramp systems have simplified the transportation issue to the point of almost normal everyday life. The converted wheelchair van now has a similar appearance to the factory build minivan. The exterior of the van is not altered other than in the rear if the ramp is in the rear. In fact most rear entry wheelchair vans have enough room for two wheelchairs.

The rear entry handicap van maintains the same ground clearance as you would receive from the original manufacturer. This is especially important in hilly or mountainous areas. Speed bumps are no longer an issue and parking anywhere is always an advantage. The largest advantage of the rear entry wheelchair van is that you never get someone parked to close for loading and unloading. Weather conditions also have to be taken into consideration. Mobility vehicles the load and unload from the side have a lower ground clearance and make snow and ice a consideration before leaving on that trip to the mall or the food center.

There are many seating options available with the rear entry van. Most manufacturers take into consideration that the entire family will be traveling together on many occasions. Mid row seating for the wheelchair occupant assures that the family atmosphere is maintained. This type of seating also allows a caregiver to be seated nest to the disabled person for assistance if required. Suction machines and other live giving equipment can be used due to optional electrical upgrades.

Modern innovations have made it possible for the family with a disabled love one to experience the world together. Take your time when investigating the world of wheelchair vans. There are many different options out there. In a perfect world the need for these types of vehicles would not be required. This is not a perfect world so please take advantage of all the innovative technology available. Your family and or disabled love one is depending on you.