Swimming is an enjoyable activity for everyone, including people with disabilities. It serves as a beneficial form of exercise for individuals who require hydrotherapy after surgery to improve their mobility. However, accessing a pool safely is challenging for wheelchair users without the right equipment. Pool hoists are accessibility solutions designed to make pools accessible to everyone. With various options of pool lifts available in the market, choosing the correct pool hoist for you can be difficult without complete information.
In this blog, we will help you understand the types, features, and considerations to find the perfect lift for your needs.
Understanding Pool Hoist
Different types of pool hoist lifts cater to the various needs and installation preferences of people with limited mobility. These lifts are devices that safely lower and raise a person with mobility issues into and out of the pool. Each type has different advantages depending on the level of mobility, frequency of use, and whether the pool is above-ground or in-ground.
Types of Pool Lifts
Before purchasing a pool lift, it is essential to understand the various types available. Pool hoists are designed to assist individuals with limited mobility in entering and exiting the water safely. This hoist lifts the person from the pool deck and lowers them gently into the pool, then brings them back out when they’re done swimming. Let’s explore types of pool hoists so you can find one that suits your needs.
Fixed pool lifts
The most popular type of pool lift is a fixed pool hoist, also known as anchored lifts. This pool lift is permanently installed in the pool deck. They are highly stable and ideal for frequent use in pools by people with disabilities or seniors. Fixed hoists are perfect for in-ground pools that have deck space for installation.
Portable pool hoists
Another type is a mobile or portable pool hoist that can be wheeled from one place to another when needed. These mobile pool lifts are the best choice for you if you have a facility with multiple pools, or for individuals who don’t want to make permanent changes to their pool area. Portable pool lifts are battery-powered and easy to use, but require regular charging to stay functional.
In the UAE, if you are looking for high-quality mobile pool lifts or fixed, durable pool hoists, MobilityExpress is your go-to place. We recognize the importance of exercise for individuals with mobility issues due to various reasons. That’s why we offer a wide range of pool hoists at an affordable price to accommodate people with various disabilities.
Battery-powered pool lifts
This type of pool lift offers smooth and reliable operation. They are controlled by a remote or buttons that allow users to operate them independently. These lifts are a perfect solution for individuals who prefer to swim independently without needing assistance from others.
Assess Your Mobility Needs
It is essential to consider the specific needs of the person who will be using it before making a purchase. One of the first things to check is weight capacity of pool hoist. You need to make sure pool lift can comfortably support your weight for safe operation. If the person with limited mobility can operate the hoist independently, a powered pool hoist with remote control can be ideal. However, if they require assistance, a manual or hydraulic lift is more appropriate.
Another thing to consider is transfer requirements. You need to be sure how easy it is for the user to move from a wheelchair onto the hoist seat. Some pool hoists have extra support features to make this process smoother. Lastly, decide if the lift is needed in multiple locations or in one place.
Power Source
Pool hoists come with different types of power systems to facilitate various people with limited mobility. If we look at manual hoists, they are operated by hand using a crank or lever, but are affordable than electric pool hoists. For individuals who may need assistance from caregivers, this is an ideal choice.
There is a type of pool lifts that does not require battery power to operate. Hydraulic hoists work using water pressure to power the lift. They require less effort to operate compared to manual pool hoists. This lift is a great option for individuals who prefer a smoother experience that doesn’t rely on electricity.
Lastly, there is a type of pool lift that utilizes a battery as its power source. Battery-powered hoists operate using rechargeable batteries and come with a control system that allows users to move independently. They’re known for higher lifting capacity, which is ideal for both personal and commercial use.
Portability and Installation
When choosing a pool hoist, you should think about how and where you will use that. If you want pool hoist for public facilities, therapy centres, or homes where regular access to the pool is needed fixed pool lifts are best option. They can be fixed in one place and bolted to the pool deck to offer maximum stability and long-term durability.
On the other hand, portable hoists are built for flexibility. They come equipped with wheels or a transfer trolley, allowing them to be easily moved from one pool to another. These are ideal for places with shared or multiple pools, such as hotels or care homes.
Safety Features
Safety is the top priority when choosing a mobility and accessibility solution. When it comes to a hoist, look for one that has a non-slip seat to prevent slipping when getting in or out of the pool. Another important safety feature to consider is the use of seatbelts or harnesses. They are essential for keeping people with disabilities and the elderly secure during movement. All pool hoists from MobilityExpress come with an emergency stop button. It allows people with limited mobility immediate control in case something unexpected happens.
Durability
Before purchasing a pool hoist lift, verify that the hoist is constructed from durable, marine-grade materials that resist corrosion from water and pool chemicals. This ensures the pool lift lasts longer and stays safe to use over time. It is advisable to select a pool hoist from a reputable provider, such as MobilityExpress, which guarantees quality, safety, and proper installation.
Conclusion
Pool lifts make swimming safe and easy for people with limited mobility. It helps wheelchair users, seniors, and people with disabilities enjoy the water without depending on others. While selecting the right pool hoists, it is better to consider your comfort and independence. It is advisable to look for safety features such as anti-slip seats, safety belts, and emergency stop buttons to ensure a secure use. If your supplier is a trusted one, such as MobilityExpress, you can enjoy long-lasting performance and peace of mind with reliable pool hoist lifts.
