Should i get a stairlift?
Do you need a stairlift? is is a good idea to help me stay in your home?
Who are stairlifts for?
Stairlifts are devices that allow people with mobility issues to easily and safely access different levels of their home. They can transport people, as well as some types of wheelchairs, up and down stairs. While basic motorized domestic stairlifts are fairly simple, those for curved or oddly shaped staircases may be more complex.
Typically, stairlift tracks are installed on the treads of stairs, rather than on the wall beside the staircase. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. Stairlifts can be powered by rechargeable batteries that automatically recharge from the main power source, allowing them to continue functioning even during a power outage. Some models are also mains-powered, with a backup battery in case of a power failure.
There are several major brands of stairlifts available in the UK, including Acorn, Handicare (which is sold by Age UK and Companion), and Stannah, as well as smaller brands such as Bespoke, MediTek, and Thyssenkrup.
Reasons why a stairlift may not be suitable
There are several reasons why a stairlift may not be the best solution for certain individuals or situations. It’s important to consider these factors before making a purchase to ensure that a stairlift will meet your needs and be a suitable solution.
Some people may find that a stairlift is not right for their condition or lifestyle. Additionally, some staircases may not be able to accommodate a stairlift due to their shape or size.
It’s a good idea to research the different types of stairlifts available and determine which one will be the best fit for your stairs. Prices can vary significantly depending on factors such as whether the stairlift is for a straight or curved staircase.
Personal restrictions on stairlift suitability
There are certain personal restrictions that may make a stairlift unsuitable for certain individuals. Mobility and weight are two important factors to consider when determining whether a stairlift is a suitable solution.
If you still have a good degree of mobility and do not experience pain when climbing stairs, you may want to wait before getting a stairlift. In some cases, people’s joints can degenerate faster if they are not used regularly.
To use a stairlift, you will typically need to have sufficient mobility to be able to get on and off the seat by yourself. You will also need to have enough dexterity to operate the controls and the footrest. There are some workarounds available for those who have difficulty holding down a control button or using the footrest, such as a joystick or toggle.
Most stairlifts have a maximum weight capacity, typically ranging from 20 to 30 stone. If you weigh more than 20 stone, you may be limited in your choice of stairlifts or may not be able to find a suitable one for your home.
When considering the purchase of a stairlift, it’s important to think about your future health needs as well as your current needs. It’s a good idea to consider whether a stairlift will be a suitable long-term solution for your needs.
For example, if you have a condition that is likely to worsen over time, you may want to consider spending the money on a solution that will allow you to stay in your home longer, such as adapting a downstairs bedroom and bathroom.
An occupational therapist (OT) can help you decide whether a stairlift is a suitable long-term option for your needs. They can assess your current and future needs and recommend the best solutions for you.
Home restrictions on stairlift suitability
While most staircases can be fitted with a stairlift, it is not always possible if the staircase is particularly narrow. In these cases, you may need to consider rearranging your home so that you spend most of your time on the ground floor.
There are a few other considerations to keep in mind when using a stairlift. If you live with others, you will need to make sure that they can safely access the stairs around the stairlift.
Because stairlifts are relatively slow to use, it’s important to have well-positioned smoke alarms and a clear escape plan in case of a fire. This will help you safely exit your home in an emergency.
Stairlifts can be expensive, with prices ranging from £2,000 to £7,000 or more for a new lift. If this is not feasible for you, there are financing options available for home alterations. You can also compare the costs and features of different brands, such as Acorn, Handicare, Stannah, Bespoke, MediTek, and Thyssenkrupp, to find the best value for your needs.
How do stairlifts work?
Most domestic stairlifts are easy to use and maintain and are generally reliable. However, there are a few things you should know to keep your stairlift functioning properly.
A stairlift consists of a seat (or standing platform), a footrest, the operating controls, and the tracking rail that the lift moves along. To use a stairlift, you typically:
Call the stairlift from its call station if it is parked at the opposite end of the staircase by pressing a button on the wall (or using a remote control).
Sit on the seat, fasten your safety belt, and rest your feet on the footrest.
Press the button or lever/joystick to send the stairlift in the desired direction, and it will start to move.
Stairlifts are equipped with safety sensors that detect obstructions on the staircase, such as dropped objects. In these cases, the stairlift will automatically stop, allowing you to remove the obstruction. This is the only time that a stairlift is likely to stop halfway up or down the stairs. Other instances of a stairlift stopping are very rare.
You can research customer reviews to determine which brands make the most reliable stairlifts.
Stairlift seats
Most seated stairlifts feature height-adjustable, padded swivel seats that allow you to easily get on and off the lift without having to twist or turn your body. Some swivel seats are motorized and lock into place when needed. Most seats also have armrests that you can use to push yourself off the seat.
When not in use, the seats of a stairlift can be folded up to allow non-stairlift users to access the stairs. This is a convenient feature that allows you to keep the stairs clear and accessible when the stairlift is not being used.
Stairlift controls
Stairlift controls are typically easy to use, consisting of a key that is inserted into the machine and left there during regular use, and either push buttons or a lever/joystick that moves left and right. Most controls can be set up on the armrest on either side of the lift, depending on whether you are right or left-handed.
If you need to disable your stairlift for a short period of time, such as when you have children visiting, you can do so by removing the key. This will immobilize the lift until the key is reinserted.
Stairlift batteries
Most stairlifts run on rechargeable batteries, while a small number run on mains electricity. Either way, stairlifts are designed to continue functioning during a power outage. Stairlifts that are mains-powered have backup batteries to ensure that they can continue operating in the event of a power failure.
Stairlifts that run on rechargeable batteries are designed to automatically recharge each time the lift is used. The charger is typically located at the designated “parking spot” at the top or bottom of the staircase. To ensure that the batteries are charged, it is important to return the stairlift to its parking spot after use using the remote control or a button on the wall. Some stairlifts will emit a warning sound if you forget to do this.