Mobility Aids: Vans and Wheelchairs

Vans seem to be perfect for handling wheelchairs and the people who use them.

The same adaptive equipment that allows cars to accommodate people with walking difficulties can be added to vans as well. Some of these devices have extra features especially for wheelers using vans. For example, the swivel seat that reaches out from a car door, actually reaches out and down to lift the person into the tall van. A fully-equipped van can be as accessible and as drivable as an equipped car.

A van, however, has an additional level of accessibility. There is the added option to get into the van without leaving the wheelchair. Vehicle seats can be juggled so the wheeler can sit in the wheelchair on the passenger side or the driver's side. There is room for passenger wheelchairs, too, and the option of jump seats that can flip up when not in use.

Van Conversions
In order for a van to be wheelchair ready, it goes through a conversion that involves structural changes and additions. Conversions are made to full-size vans and minivans for side or rear entry. A full-size van with a side-entry ramp may require electric suspension to kneel so the ramp is not too steep, work on the support beam and relocating the fuel tank. Rear entry requires less structural work.

 An electrically powered lift can move a chair or scooter from street level to the van and back again at the destination. Transfers from wheelchair to vehicle seat, while still an option, are no longer a requirement. The wheelchair is tied down, and a belt and shoulder harness adds safety.

Once in the van, there must be room to sit in the wheelchair comfortably with adequate head space. The van floor is lowered during the conversion, from 8 - 12 inches to ensure the line of vision through the windshield is not compromised. There may be need for the roof to be raised for adequate head room. Once the floor is lowered, the van may scrape the street when going over bumps or inclines like driveways.

Converting a van so it is wheelchair accessible involves many details.  It should be completed by a professional to ensure safety.

Before you buy:
A van is a major purchase. Besides the cost of the van, there is the added cost of the conversion that might be up to $20,000. It is not a decision to be made lightly. Anyone with no experience would benefit from an evaluator's help to ensure the chosen van meets the needs and reduce the chances of an expensive mistake.

Do your research. There is some information on the Internet to help decide what particular equipment to add, and many dealers ready are to help. There are also sites that tell personal stories and opinions. These are valuable, but for every one that recommends a minivan, there is another that says full-sized vans are the way to go. Some recommend lifts while others say to rely on ramps. When you read these accounts, pay particular attention to the reasons for their decisions. Do those reasons apply to your lifestyle?

Dealers are usually helpful as you determine what you need and what you can spend. Try to see what seems to work for you.  Check out the new and used vans that have already been converted. There are many places to rent a van which is one great way to try one out.