Craig PornoreyAs we move through the different stages of life, our needs change. For those that have begun to have reduced mobility as they age, climbing the stairs, a once simple task, is no longer an option. This is where a stairlift can make all the difference.
According to Phil from Anglian Lifts “This option, for a long time, wasn’t available to many people due to the cost.” However, as technology improves, costs have reduced, making an in-home stairlift a solution that can improve quality-of-life, as well as help anyone needing a stairlift keep their independence as they age. If you are looking for a stairlift, make sure to ask yourself these questions.
Stairlift Prices: What is Your Budget?
This is a critical question for anyone looking to purchase a stairlift. The variety of types of stairlifts, the quality of their build, and the different types of options to suit your needs mean that there are many different price points available in the stairlift market.
Thankfully, the UK government has provided a grant (Disabled Facilities Grant) that is available to those that need help in funding the purchase of a stairlift for their home. There may be the option of renting a stairlift instead of buying a stairlift as well. It is always prudent to ask multiple different providers to quote the price of a stairlift for your home to find the right price for your budget.
What Type of Staircase Do You Have?
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Straight Staircases
As one would expect, straight staircases are the easiest and most cost-effective type of stairs to mount a stairlift to. Straight stairlifts are mounted to the wall and can be installed simply, relatively hassle-free, and quickly.
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Curved Staircases
The curved stairlift is a slightly more complex project to install due to the fact that curved stairs are not uniform across homes. This means that each curved stairlift will need to be made custom for the user’s home.
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Narrow Staircase
The only difference between a straight stairlift and the stairlift necessary for a narrow staircase would be the need for a compact or folding stairlift.
This allows you to fold the stairlift when it is not in use, leaving the stairs clear for others to use.
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Platform Stairs
The only difference between platform stairs and straight stairs is that there may be a break in the stairs, or the directionality of the stairs may change at the platform. If this is the case, two separate, straight stairlifts would need to be installed to reach the desired floor.
What are the Options and Features?
Similar to cars, stairlift seats have a variety of different features meant to accommodate the needs of the user. Everything from powered swivel seats to perch stairlifts is available to make the experience as pleasant as possible.
What is a perch stairlift? Perch stairlifts are designed for people who have a hard time sitting down. They are transported up the stairs in an almost upright position, with belts and harnesses to protect them from falling off the stairlift.
Do They Have Quality Sales, Service, and Maintenance Teams?
It is important to make sure that there is a solid team of professionals that can be contacted for anything that is necessary for your stairlift. Is there a reliable, long-term warranty? What happens if your stairlift needs to be serviced? Do your stairlift costs include maintenance and care?
Choosing the Right Stairlift
A stairlift can make a living in your home a much simpler, much more enjoyable process. Make sure to ask the right questions to ensure that you get the best quality for the best price and continue living your best life.
