Age is an inevitability, and at some point we will all experience issues with reduced independence and mobility. To slow down this process, people resort to a range of aids to improve daily life. One thing to consider in this line of products is a stairlift.
Make no mistake, though: installing a stairlift can require significant modifications the the house. The question is whether the benefits outweigh the price. Let’s look at some information to know before purchasing a stairlift.
How Do Stairlifts Work?
A stairlift is a mobility aid, and modern versions contain two main parts: the track [1] and the chair [2]. The device works through a system of wheels and gears to move the chair up the track, which is situated on the staircase.
Stairlifts Help with Poor Balance and Mobility
For anyone with mobility issues, going up and down multiple staircases a day becomes an exhaustive and painful process. One could even fall and sustain a serious injury. That’s what stairlifts are here to help avoid: move up and down levels without worrying so much about these challenges.
Stairlifts Help Ease Other Medical Challenges As Well
Once a stairlift is set up people often begin to see other improvements in their day to day life that they didn’t even anticipate.
Many senior citizens affected by osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, which are painful inflammations on the joints. These ailments are often hard to ease, which is why having a stairlift can help lower the burden.
What Kind of Stairlift Should I Purchase?
One thing to consider is whether a straight or curved stairlift will be required [3]. Generally this will depend on the staircase, but modifications can always be made.
Another step to consider is whether a swivel seat will be required. A swivel seat functions similarly to an office chair, which can be rotated left and right. The benefit is that it makes it easier to get off or on the chair.
Finally, another consideration is whether to get a perch chair. [4] These transport users in a particular position and some even come with the extra security of a seatbelt.
Conclusion
While no one wants to think about possible reduced mobility, planning ahead can prepare you for anything. Setting up a stairlift in your help can help smooth over some of those constant aches and pains. Before choosing a final solution, good thorough research is recommended to find the right stairlift for a whole range of applications.
[1] Stairlifts: Your Everything Guide. https://www.aginginplace.org/stairlifts-a-comprehensive-guide/#track
[2] Stairlifts: Your Everything Guide. https://www.aginginplace.org/stairlifts-a-comprehensive-guide/#seat
[3] Curved Stairlifts. https://www.ageukmobility.co.uk/product-group/curved-stairlifts
[4] Perch Straight Stairlift. https://www.ageukmobility.co.uk/product/perch-straight-stairlift
