Chair Lift For Stairs - What You Need to Know

Stair lifts allow seniors to move between different levels of a home safely and easily. In the most basic sense, it is a chair on a track that an electric motor moves up and down.

They are easily installed into most homes. The only major requirement is the stair tread condition needs to be good as the stair lift railing is directly attached to it.

Benefits

Safety - Stairs present a major challenge for seniors with mobility issues. They are often dangerous for the elderly. Falling down stairs is a leading cause of serious injury among the elderly and purchasing a chair lift for stairs can significantly reduce concerns about falling down stairs.

A chair lift will not only be a safer method for movement up and down stairs by those with mobility issues but they will also be securing an important degree of independence.

Access - Depending on the design of the house, the senior may need to access different levels (bedroom on one level and kitchen on another). If the senior uses a wheelchair or has difficulty walking, ascending and descending stairs may not be an option. A stair lift can provide them with a safe and easy way of accessing different levels of the home.

Features

There are a variety of features available for stairs lifts, including:

• Compact storage when not in use - Some models flip up and out of way.
• Weight and size capacity - Bariatric models available for both above average weight and height.
• Outdoor/all Weather - Allows lifts to be used outdoors.
• Lockable - An option that allows the chair to only be operated with a key. Excellent for outside/public use.
• Hand held controls - Remote control in case the senior who is sitting in the chair cannot operate independently.
• Varying track length - Track lengths come in a variety of lengths depending on the design of the staircase.
• Stand vs sit - An option that allows clients to stand instead of sit.
• Battery operated and AC power operated - The battery operation is needed when the power is out.

How To Choose

There are a variety of things to consider when choosing a stair lift.

• Weight and height of user.
• Seniors transfer ability. Can they transfer to a chair and tolerate several minutes of sitting. Would a model that allows the senior to use their wheelchair be more appropriate?
• Stairs straight or curved?
• On left or right of stairs looking up from bottom?
• Width of stairs?
• Is there an existing hand rail? Would it be in the way? Does someone else in the house need the handrail?
• The ability to use battery and power. Battery is essential for when the power goes out and the user needs to move between the levels of the house. For example, during a power outage or even a fire.
• Is the stairway narrow? Do you need to have a compact model that flips out of the way?
• Do you prefer a seat that swivels?
• Are the controls easy to use?
• Maintenance - Is the dealer close by who can perform maintenance and repairs?

How Much Do They Cost?

Prices vary due to manufacture, design of stairs and time to install (labor costs).

Other factors that can affect price include:

• New or refurbished model
• Installation costs
• Receiving some kind of government assistance or rebate?
• Prices for a simple chair lift for straight stairs often range between $3000 to $4000, but for more elaborate stairways and chairs, the price can be as much as $15,000 (or even more, in some cases).

If you are looking to reduce your costs, consider purchasing a used or refurbished model. Renting is another option offered by some companies. Some companies will also pursue some creative financing arrangements with you, including reverse mortgages, home equity loans and other loan arrangements.

Kevin Campbell

For more information: Chair Lift for Stairs