Swimming pools and South Florida go together like Dan Marino and the Dolphins. You can’t think of one without thinking of the other. But if you have mobility issues, you may find yourself watching the fun poolside. A swimming pool chair lift, or ramp, can get you back in the water polo game. But when it comes to ensuring accessibility for you or a loved one, you want to make the right choice. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you choose between a pool chair lift and a pool ramp.
Benefits of Accessible Pools for Those With Mobility Issues
Swimming pools are central to Florida’s culture. Whether you’re hosting the neighborhood pool party or enjoying a cocktail on the float after dinner, swimming pools are a key ingredient to South Florida’s social, low-stress vibes.
For those with mobility issues, though, swimming pools can become a source of anxiety and loneliness. Too often, swimming pools become yet another barrier to accessibility.
But when barriers are removed and swimming pools are accessible, people with mobility issues can enjoy the benefits of being in the water.
The psychological benefits of swimming include:
- Improved mood
- Less stress
- Improved self-esteem
- Mental clarity
Swimming pools are good for the body, too. For people with mobility issues, getting enough exercise can be difficult. Swimming pools make it easier. That’s because the buoyancy of water makes it easier for people with mobility issues to exercise. That buoyancy supports up to 90% of your body weight.
It’s just one reason why aquatic therapy has been shown to:
- Help manage chronic pain
- Improve flexibility and range of motion
- Build muscle
- Improve cardiovascular health
- Improve balance and stability
But the only way people with mobility issues can experience the benefits of swimming is if they have access to a pool chair lift or pool ramp.
Differences Between Chair Lifts and Pool Ramps
Chair lifts and pool ramps are the most common devices used to make swimming pools accessible. They’re both effective for helping people with mobility issues access the benefits of swimming.
Chair lifts are easy-to-use, mechanized solutions that gently lift users and lower them into the water. Chair lifts can be portable or fixed to the side of the pool. They come in a variety of models, allowing users to find the features they need.
Pool ramps are similar to wheelchair ramps found elsewhere. They’re built to a safe, ADA-compliant angle. Pool ramps, though, are made of water-resistant materials and include sturdy railings on each side to support people as they walk into the water.
Which Is Better, Pool Chair Lift Or Pool Ramp?
Both chair lifts and pool ramps make swimming more accessible. The right fit depends on your pool layout, how much space you have on the deck, and what kind of entry feels safest and easiest.
Swimming Pool Chair Lifts
Pool chair lifts tend to work well when deck space feels tight or when you want to keep the pool area looking mostly the same. Many people like that chair lifts offer a supported way into the water without needing special wheelchairs or equipment. They also work well in home settings where someone wants the option to enter the pool independently. Some models can be removed or stored when not in use, which helps if your pool gets closed for part of the year.
Pool Ramps
Pool ramps feel more familiar for people who prefer a gradual, walk-in entry. They create a steady path into the water and can feel more natural for those who like having rails on both sides for balance and support. Ramps tend to work best when the pool and deck area has enough room to comfortably accommodate a sloped entry without taking away from swim space. They often make sense in settings where multiple people may be entering and exiting the pool throughout the day.
What matters most is how safe and comfortable the experience feels in real life. When getting into the pool feels simple and supported, people spend less time worrying about access and more time enjoying the water, the movement, and the moment.
How to Choose the Right Pool Chair Lift
For most homeowners and existing public pools, a mechanized chair lift makes the most sense. But once you’ve decided to purchase a chair lift for your Fort Lauderdale pool, how do you choose the right one?
Pool chair lifts come in a variety of sizes and unique configurations, so you can be sure to find one that fits your needs. The first step to choosing the right pool chair lift is defining your must-have features.
Start by asking yourself these questions:
- Who will be using the chair lift the most?
- How much deck space is available?
- Will the chair lift be installed in a high-traffic area of the deck?
- Do you want to be able to remove the chair lift when it’s not in use?
- Is your pool in-ground or above-ground?
- Will your future needs for your chair lift change?
Some people mistakenly think a user’s weight might prevent them from using a pool chair lift. Today’s chair lifts, though, are durable and able to safely accommodate most users. For example, The Mighty 600 Pool Lift has a weight capacity of 600 pounds. So, it’s a great choice for a wide range of people who can reap the health benefits of pool access.
Public pools and homeowners alike wonder about removing a pool chair lift when it’s not needed, for example, during the closed season or when the homeowners leave for an extended vacation. The Splash! Pool Lift installed by Advanced Mobility, anchors into the pool deck and can be removed for safe storage.
Some pool owners may be reluctant to install a pool chair lift and its wiring into a concrete pool deck. For these owners, the portable PAL2 Pool Lift is a rechargeable solution that doesn’t require installation.
Make the Right Choice with the Experts at Advanced Mobility
If you’re ready to make your pool accessible, Advanced Mobility, Inc. can help you find the right solution for your needs. We specialize in high-quality mobility products that prioritize safety and accessibility for our clients. Contact us today for a free in-home assessment, or give us a call at 954-888-9292 and speak with a member of our team. We’ll help you make the best choice for your next pool chair or ramp installation.