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Today, about half of all American homes contain stairs. That statistic may not mean much to some. However, for individuals who have suffered injury, illness or who have lost mobility due to aging, stairs can present a challenge and even make parts of one’s home inaccessible. 

With a stairlift, even those who have limited mobility can get their homes back, which can, in turn, allow many individuals to age in place. But is a stairlift or chair lift installation really feasible for the average individual? How much does the installation of one of these mobility aids really cost? The answer may surprise you. These options, with federal grants and corporate-level discounts, can be made affordable for anyone. Here’s what you need to know…

Understanding Stair Lift Basics

Let’s get started by tackling some of the basics when it comes to Monte-escaliers. These are mechanical devices that help move people up and downstairs. However, when thinking about the pricing of chair lifts and other similar devices, it’s important to understand that what you need and what you’re looking for in a stairlift will greatly affect its price. One of the most basic things that will affect the price of a stairlift is the size of the staircase.

Additional considerations include whether or not there is a curve in the staircase. And finally, it’s important to remember there are many models of chair lifts available. These include basic battery-operated models, electric models and a range of features that can be added to stairlifts at an additional cost.

Stair Lift Pricing Options

As you search for stairlifts for your home, you’ll find that the starting range in terms of pricing is much more affordable than you might have initially thought. A battery-operated stairlift can start in the range of $2000 to $3000. Meanwhile, an electric option will cost a little more, being about $3000 to $5000. A chair lift for a CUSTOM curved staircase can be one of the more expensive options, costing upwards of $10000. 

The important thing to remember is that just as no two homes are the same, the price will vary depending on your precise needs. If you would like to speak to a professional about having a stair lift installed in your home, or the home of a loved one, contact us today at Next Day Access and we will discuss the options available to you.

Christmas can be a time for reconnecting with loved ones and sharing in the joy of the season. But for many individuals, being able to head home for the holidays is not a simple feat. 

This was the case for Mr. James Evans. James, an LPN for over 30 years who had been working in home health for the past six years, was sitting in his vehicle outside a patient’s home when the unthinkable happened. Unknown to James, a high-speed police chase was taking place when the suspect struck Mr. Evans’ vehicle, sending him into a telephone pole. 

After the vehicle collision, James spent three weeks in a medically induced coma and was then transferred to the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, which specializes in spinal cord and brain injury rehabilitation. 

Mr. Evans was paralyzed from the chest down due to his injuries and now uses a powered wheelchair. After six months of specialized care at the Shepherd Center, there was hope to get James home in time for Christmas. Unfortunately, the home modifications to get him home could not be scheduled until after the new year. 

After hearing of the situation, Mr. Evans’ nurse case manager reached out to Next Day Access asking if there was a way for him to get him home for the holidays. That’s when Next Day Access made the decision to donate a temporary ramp for Mr. Evans. Next Day Access collaborated with Mr. Evans’ nurse case manager, the Nashville Next Day Access franchise, and the Shepherd Center to orchestrate Mr. Evans’ getting home for the holidays. 

When asked about the decision to donate the ramp, Nathan Lewis, Director of the Workers’ Comp Division at Next Day Access, told us, “When we first learned about James and his story we knew we needed to help. Our workers’ comp division at Next Day Access assists thousands of injured workers each year. It is important to everyone in our organization to remember this is more than a business. We are in a unique position to help people and families that are going through life-changing situations. To help a fellow Tennessean get home for Christmas was a privilege. We could not have done it alone either. A special thanks to our Nashville franchise, his nurse case manager and the fine people at Shepherd Center who helped make it all possible as well.”

The client and his wife, along with his nurses and caseworker, could not have been more thrilled when they learned the news. The ramp was installed at the man’s home shortly before Christmas Eve, and with that, his holiday wish was fulfilled. With the ramp he needed in place, he was able to make it home and enjoy Christmas with those he loves most.

When asked about the donation, James exclaimed, 

Never give up on Christmas miracles, because they happen. I kept believing that I would be home for Christmas and Next Day Access was a big part of that. They made it happen for me. Without Next Day Access, I would not have gotten home.”

This story is just one of many examples of people needing assistance in accessing their homes. If you or someone you love struggles with access to or around their home, please feel free to reach out to Next Day Access by calling (800) 423-0751.

A vertical platform lift is a machine used to elevate a wheelchair from one level to another. A porch lift is primarily used outside to give a wheelchair user access to a deck or porch. They can travel a short distance vertically, and they may travel several feet horizontally. They are equipped with a mechanism to power the platform up and down — some are even battery operated. But porch lifts are not just used for access to porches — you might even think of them as your personal home elevator!

How a Porch Lift Works

Once the vertical platform lift is installed, the wheelchair user can easily roll onto the platform on the lift. The wheelchair enters the lift using a short metal ramp which folds up when the lift is being raised. This provides a safety barrier to prevent the chair from rolling off the platform. Once the chair is safely on the platform, the user pushes a button which will raise them to the right level. Then, they simply roll off the platform and onto the porch or deck. Taking it down is just as simple as rolling the chair onto the platform, then pushing the appropriate button to lower the platform to ground level again.

Can Anyone Use Platform Lifts?

On a vertical porch lift, there is a small control panel. It contains an emergency stop switch, up and down switches and a key switch. The key switch is used to turn on the power. The unit does not work unless it is turned on using the key. This provides a level of safety since it cannot be used without the key, so kids can’t play with it and others cannot use it without permission. It is important to note there must be a solid gate on the upper level to prevent a potential hazard for feet and hands while the user is traveling up or down. The locked gate cannot open until the chair reaches the upper landing.

Are Vertical Porch Lifts Just for Outdoor Use?

Most of these types of lifts are designed for outside use. The unit can be enclosed and it can have full-sized walls similar to a home elevator. Similarly to the stairlift, they can be installed inside or outside depending on where access is needed to an upper or lower level in the home. They can also be used in a commercial setting including businesses, churches or stores.  

At Next Day Access, our goal is to ensure you have comfort and accessibility in your own home. This is why we provide turnkey solutions and worry-free installation services for vertical porch lifts. Nous contacter today to learn how you can get a VPL installed at your home or office.

Having access to your entire house without needing assistance to and from is important. Many people who have mobility issues can use wheelchair ramps or vertical platform wheelchair lifts in their homes. These can grant access to otherwise inaccessible areas. These additions can make a huge difference in your home so you can freely navigate your entire house. Which is better for you? Here are several considerations to help you choose.

Tight Spaces

When deciding between a vertical platform lift (VPL) and handicap ramps, the amount of available space is important. To have room for Rampes pour fauteuils roulants, you typically need one foot for each inch of rise. If there isn’t room for a long ramp, then a lift might be a better option. You’ll only need enough room for a four-foot rise.

User Abilities

You’ll want to spend some time considering who will be using the platform lift or ramp. Most people are comfortable using a lift and the platform is accommodating to most mobility devices. They have simple-to-use controls. Wheelchair ramps may be more difficult to use with some mobility devices. Scooters and power chairs work fine with a ramp since the chair or scooter does most of the actual work. If an individual is using a manual wheelchair, rollators, or a walker, however, a ramp may be more challenging for them. Make sure the user or their caregiver is comfortable with the distance and slope of a ramp.

The Costs

Most would think a ramp would be cheaper than a lift, but it’s not always the case. Ramps traveling up about 30 inches should cost less than $6000. If the ramp increases in length or complexity, the cost increases accordingly. Platform lifts installed to travel about 48 inches up usually start at about $6000. The cost can vary a lot depending on the model, make, any additional features and the amount of site prep needing to be done for proper installation. If your house has a 36-inch high porch with a level concrete pad, the platform lift may be more budget-friendly than a ramp.

Curb Appeal

If your neighborhood has an HOA, your options may be more limited. In some communities, wheelchair ramps must be approved as a variance to HOA rules and regulations under the Fair Housing Act as a “reasonable accommodation.” In areas with less restrictive architectural guidelines, you may simply prefer one look over the other. For example, a platform lift can be more discrete than a wheelchair ramp. A ramp, on the hand, offers a clean, neat appearance but may take up more space.

At Next Day Access, we understand each situation and need is unique for every person. Let us help you with some recommendations for wheelchair ramps or platform lifts. Our primary goal is to help you make your home more safe and accessible. Nous contacter today!

“It’s become more difficult to climb the stairs…”

“Since my husband died, it’s a strange feeling cooking for just one person…”

“We built this house almost fifty years ago and raised our children here — no other place will ever seem like home to me…”

These are all common concerns for seniors living at home, or even people who may not necessarily be elderly, but have a hard time getting around. With some help, it’s not only possible to stay in your own home, but it’s preferable from a health perspective. Did you know that “aging in place” has benefits for memory, life expectancy, and overall health?

Population studies estimate that by the mid-2030s, one in three U.S. households will be headed by someone 65 or older. According to the Harvard Joint Center, that’s almost 80 million people living in their homes and enjoying an increased quality of life.

Or, if you’re caregiving for an aging parent, we know that considering various housing options can be a bewildering task. You want to make sure they have the care they need 24/7, but you also want them to be as comfortable as possible, both physically and mentally. Here are a few benefits of aging in place for seniors looking for an enhanced quality of life.

No Risk of Homesickness

Everyone feels safer, more secure and comfortable in their own home. Assisted-living facilities provide an opportunity for your loved one to create new friendships and socialize, but homesickness is also a genuine possibility. Loneliness can put anyone in a depressed mental state, which can exacerbate other emotional and physical concerns. Investing in the proper equipment, home improvements and gear is often preferable instead of moving to a strange place.

Maintain Independence, Comfort and Familiarity

It can be scary to feel like you’re at the mercy of a caretaker when living in an assisted-living facility. According to RetirementLiving.com, there are significant mental and physical benefits of staying in your home and aging in place. Getting accustomed to different routines, diets, and schedules can be difficult for someone at any age! With a little help, it’s easy to continue living at home and maintain your independence, comfort, and familiarity. Stairlifts, handrails, and wheelchair access ramps are all simple additions that can make one’s home more accessible and safer.

The Cost-Effectiveness of Aging in Place

In addition to all of the mental and physical benefits of homecare, it’s less expensive for most people! Assisted-living facilities have a high upfront cost and can significantly deplete savings over the years. Have you considered the affordable alternative of having a home equipped with proper equipment, mobility and safety devices? The total expense of these improvements are typically much less than the cost of a facility and can add value to the equity in your home.

Next Day Access has everything you need to ensure that you — or your loved one — is safe, comfortable and healthy. From stairlifts to wheelchairs, ramps to bedroom solutions and everything in between, Next Day Access covers every aspect of aging in place. 

We are always ready to help, so Nous contacter to see how our products and solutions can help you and your family today.

Now is the time of year for family holiday events! If you’re hosting an event this year, you may be thinking about a million things at once. Did I plan for the right amount of food? Is the lighting in my home sufficient for all of my guests? Did I forget to invite someone? Are these decorations too over-the-top?

You have plenty of things to think about for sure, but one thing you don’t want to overlook is if you have a family member with mobility concerns. If you do, then some minor tweaks to your home can make your holiday event a success for all!

Entertain Visitors With These Tips in Mind

You may not be able to think of everything ahead of time on your own, so don’t hesitate to ask your family members with mobility concerns what they will need the most. These five tips can help you prepare:

1. Ask what makes them most comfortable. This could be as simple as having a chair with armrests, a firm seat or wider walkways that may simply involve rearranging some furniture.
2. Think about their needs. Start by installing a temporary wheelchair ramp to enter your home if you don’t already have one. Inside the home, remove any rugs and clear away any end tables or decor that may get in the way of a wheelchair.
3. Install grab bars in bathrooms. Doing this will make them feel much more comfortable and you’ll reduce the risk of them falling in your home.
4. Consider your festivities and traditions. Whether it’s watching a movie together or enjoying time in the backyard, make sure the area is accessible for a wheelchair so they can participate also.
5. Keep your pet away. Pets are friendly and want to be involved with the party too, but they can also get tangled under people’s feet and create trip hazards for anyone who doesn’t have good balance. It’s best to make arrangements to have someone pet-sit them or at least keep them in a room away from the festivities.

Holiday events can be stressful to prepare for. With the right amount of preparation, though, everyone will have a great time. A family member with mobility concerns likely won’t expect you to go out of your way to accommodate them, but will surely appreciate the efforts.

Summer is here and fun-filled family vacation is just what everyone needs! However, for those with mobility needs, it can be hard to find a fun yet accessible place. We have great news! The National Park Service (NPS) has dedicated time and effort to make more parks accessible for people of all needs. If you and your family are ready for a midsummer adventure, Next Day Access has compiled a list of beautiful locations to check out.

Rocky Mountain National Park – Colorado

With soaring mountains and an abundance of wildlife, you will love this accessible national park. Even more than just the natural beauty of your surroundings, this park offers a wide range of activities and places to visit. Be sure to stop by Beaver Meadows Visitor Center/Park Headquarters to check out the auditorium, ranger talks and the bookstore. Don’t forget to pack a picnic! Endovalley Picnic Area is fully accessible with picnic tables for your family to enjoy a meal outside while taking in the amazing views.

Yosemite National Park – California

Rushing waterfalls, ancient sequoias and grand granite formations are just a few of the natural wonders you will see at this park. Yosemite rangers and officials have worked hard to make the park more accessible for people with mobility needs. They have added shuttle buses that take you to the popular sites as well as new trails that are wheelchair and scooter navigable.

Grand Canyon National Park – Arizona

Although you may not think so, this park is a great destination for those utilizing a wheelchair or mobility scooter. Thanks to its massive size, every one with its flat, wheelchair accessible trails can see the natural beauty of this park. There are also paved paths that will allow you to get close to the canyon so you can take that perfect selfie.

Yellowstone National Park – Wyoming

Everyone has heard of Yellowstone but did you know it was the world’s first national park? With its beautiful hot springs, gushing geysers and towering mountains, you can’t turn your head without seeing a breathtaking view of the great outdoors. There are long paved trails that wind around Old Faithful so those using mobility equipment won’t miss out on anything!

Summertime is the best time for making memories and going on adventures. These national parks feature marvelous views you won’t soon forget. If you need more help identifying which parks would be best for your mobility needs, contact the National Park Service. And if you need some equipment to help you have your greatest adventure yet, Accès le lendemain can help!

Making the decision to go from employee to employer can be one of the most rewarding yet stressful decisions of your life. It’s a huge shift in not only your day-to-day but the life of your family as well. It is a life-altering choice that can make even the most confident person wary.

However, it is important to remember that with great risk comes great reward. With proper research and advice from industry experts, you can not only succeed but also thrive as a business owner. At Next Day Access, we have seen many of our franchise owners go from skeptical first-timers to prosperous business professionals. Having your own Next Day Access Franchise can be immensely rewarding. Not only can you invest in your own personal success, but you will also be investing in the success and independence of the people you help.

Another great aspect of opening your own Next Day Access Franchise is becoming a part of a family of business owners. We are here to support you and let you know that you have what it takes to change your life and the life of others. With just a few tips and tricks, we can help you overcome any obstacle you may face when you first start your franchise journey.

3 Common Worries When Becoming a Franchisee

No great victory comes without a struggle. This applies to business ownership as well. In order to reap the rewards, you must put in the work. One of the greatest things you can do to set yourself up for success is to have the drive and patience to succeed. Still not sure if owning your own business is right for you? We have compiled a list of three common fears and how you can spearhead them on your way to the top.

1. Financial Risk

No business is risk-free, and no risk comes without some fear.  Evaluating risk and weighing that risk against your possible rewards is central to all commercial activity. However, opening your own franchise puts a large amount of risk on you all at once.

When you are renting out space, making hires and taking out a business loan, you are putting a lot on the line. Balancing all of the demands and stress can put a real strain on your psyche. And although there is no simple solution to this issue, we do have a few tips that can help.

• Proper planning and research can help to alleviate a lot of the stress you may take on. Get to know the products and services that you will offer. If you’re confident in what you have, you will be better able to make the sale and ease some of the initial financial strain.
• Think of money as a tool that you can utilize to better your future. Establishing a franchise with a well-known company can be an investment that pays off for generations. You are not only investing in yourself but also your family.

2. Lifestyle Changes

As we touched on before, going from employee to employer, and all the responsibilities that entails can be a huge step. Everything from developing schedules, tracking inventory, marketing efforts and the livelihoods of your employees resting in your hands can be a sobering responsibility. All of these newfound duties can lead to long days and late nights until you truly get off the ground.

Although it is true that running a business has a myriad of tasks, it’s nothing you can’t handle. All it takes is time and dedication. Plus, when you love what you do, and you love helping people live their best lives, it doesn’t seem like work!

However, we understand that the initial life changes can be daunting and stressful. Here are a few tips to overcome the initial shock.

• The first thing to remember is you are never alone! You have joined a huge network of amazing people who have all gone through what you are experiencing. Whether you need advice on company matters or just want to reach out to someone about how they handle different processes, you have tons of contacts at your fingertips.
• We also have case studies available. Flip through documented Next Day Access Franchise achievements and processes to help you implement your own practices to ensure your success!

3. Failing

Getting your franchise started can have you feeling a wide range of emotions. Excitement, intrigue, stress and fear are all common for people branching out on their own for the first time. Fearing failure is utterly human though. You have worked hard for this opportunity and you want to succeed.

It is important to not let your fear of failing hold you back from succeeding. Although that sounds easier said than done, you just need to be honest with yourself. Do you have the time and effort to dedicate to your new business? Are you ready to do everything from the strategic work to the dirty work? If you answered yes, then here are a few tips to push fear of failure from your mind.

• Start by writing an intricate business plan. Start from the small things, like where you run your business, to large things like how you will fund this venture. Putting things in writing and preparing for different obstacles can help alleviate your fears.
• You chose to start a Next Day Access Franchise for a reason. With successful locations all around the country, it is a tried and true business. If you have faith in your company and its products, it is hard to fail.
• With your friends, family and the Next Day Access network behind you, you have a strong support system. If you need help, you can always reach out. The only thing that can hold you back is you!

Are You Ready To Start Your Next Day Access Franchise Journey?

The bottom line is, you won’t know until you try! Realistic expectations and contingency plans will be your first weapons against the unknown. Outside of that: educate yourself continually, rely on your support network and keep up the hard work.

Being cautious, to an extent, is a good way to make sure you are making strategic decisions. Don’t let your anxiety keep you down, let fear motivate you to achieve your dreams of business success!

Are you ready to get started? We at Accès le lendemain can’t wait to help you begin your franchise journey!