As mobility becomes an issue, home owners still want to retain their independence. It’s only natural that family and friends need to find a workable solution for relatives who are aged. Home stairlift solutions can be particularly helpful if the elderly or infirm live in a two or more storey home. Choosing the most appropriate stairlift, however, may present difficulties which are outlined below, to help people to find solutions.
Stairs (Creative commons)
Type of staircase and measurements
The type of staircase is vital to the quest, since stairlifts come in many shapes and forms. For example, the banister may have a curve to it, the staircase may be straight or it may even be an outside staircase as access to an upstairs maisonette. This will be the first element to discuss with a stairlift company. Taking measurements between the banister rail and the other side of the stairs will also be useful. The number of treads should also be noted down as a reference point when approaching a stairlift provider.
Other considerations
The suitability of a stairlift to make life more comfortable really depends upon the health of the homeowner. For example, those who find being seated uncomfortable may need to consider stairlifts which allow the homeowner to stand. There may be other constraints such as having arthritic hands which are unable to use the equipment suppliled with a stairlift. Home stairlift solutions can be found to fit the home in question.
Talking to a specialist
The kind of specialist that can help in the assessment of whether a stairlift is the answer is a physiotherapist or even an occupational therapist. It’s worthwhile talking to professionals who will know what constraints there are and what adjustments would need making to your home layout to incorporate a stairlift. For example, small landings and space constricted by radiators may need to be adjusted before the stairlift can be introduced.
A specialist consultant can be called in to visit and help to establish which solution is best for the home in question. These are professionals who are accustomed to questions and will have all the answers to the homeowners’ worries about the installation costs, time needed to install the stairlift and what kind of guarantee and back up assistance is available in the event of breakdown.
A Little about the History of the stairlift
If you are someone who feels they would benefit from the installation of a stairlift, home stairlift solutions date back as far as Henry VIII so you’re in good company. Henry VIII may have been known for other things, though in fact invented a stairlift using block and tackle equipment to get him up the stairs. While your stairlift will certainly be more modern and convenient, one thing’s for sure. You are in good company wanting one to make your day to day life more convenient.