Chiropractic Healing Works

Chiropractic Healing Works

Residential Stair Lifts For The Elderly: Discover The Benefits And How To Make The Right Purchase

by Charlie Berry

If you're an elderly individual experiencing difficulty using your home stairs, the use of a stair lift may help. Ideal for use in a two-story home or a house with a basement, most stair lifts are battery powered and will operate during an electrical outage. The motorized seat is installed on a rail, intended to transport you up and down stairs with minimal effort. Not all stair lifts are created equal, which is why you need to familiarize yourself with important features before you make your purchase.

Why You May Benefit From Using a Stair Lift

If you live in a two story home, you probably use your stairs several times a day. Stair lifts provide a seated ride up and down the stairs, and may be helpful if you suffer from back, hip or knee pain, or if you have limited mobility. It's a helpful device for the elderly, who are more prone to experiencing falls in the home.

Do you require assistance using your home stairs? A stair lift may help you remain safe and independent in your home. Have you been avoiding the use of your second floor altogether? With the use of a motorized stair lift, you may find you won't need to limit yourself to the ground floor only.

What to Consider When Choosing Your Stair Lift

If you have little knowledge of stair lifts, you may be confused by the features of various models. To help you make the best choice, here is what you need to consider before making your purchase:

  • Compatibility: One of the most important aspects of choosing a stair lift is ensuring the model is compatible with the design of your stairs. Some stair lifts are designed for straight staircases only, while others are made exclusively for curved stair designs. You should also take measurements of your stairwell to ensure you have adequate space. These measures will help you avoid structural changes that could be an added expense or major overhaul.

  • Weight Capacity: Depending upon the model, a stair lift may typically support weight ranging from 250 to 300 pounds. If you require the larger weight capacity, don't assume all models are compliant.

  • Seating Features: Look for a seat with adequate width. Also, to accommodate the height of the user, the seat should easily adjust to various positions. Besides having an adjustable power seat height, the unit should include a well-padded seat and backrest. Ergonomically designed seating may help you avoid strain on your joints, therefore one that swivels for an easy dismount is a good choice.

  • Charging Features: Does the stair lift recharge automatically when the unit is not in operation? Not all models do. This feature is more convenient than having to remember to recharge the unit manually.

  • Fold-Up Capabilities: To make it convenient for others to use the stairs and to minimize space along your stairway, choose a stair lift with parts that fold compactly. The seat of the unit, as well as the arms and footrest, should fold inward when not in use.

  • Track Covering: The track covering on the rail should be durable and smooth, with no rough edges to catch on clothing or shoes. Covering may be available in various paint colors to match your staircase frame or carpeting.

  • Quiet Operation: While some stair lifts operate more quietly than others, the unit should not have a loud or humming motor. To avoid disturbing others in your household and make you less likely to use your stair lift regularly, choose one that does not operate noisily.

  • Child-Lock System: If you have children in your household, this safety feature is essential. A child-lock helps prevent the operation of the stair lift by young children.

If you have other concerns or questions about the use, compatibility and features of a stair lift, consult with a technician. Don't attempt to install a stair lift yourself if you are inexperienced. For safety and peace of mind, insist on professional installation.  


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About Me

Chiropractic Healing Works

I used to be skeptical about chiropractic healing. However, that was before I tried it for myself. I was in an accident that did serious damage to my back. I followed all of the doctor’s recommendations, did my physical therapy, and still didn’t feel any better. That was when I finally decided to try going to my friend’s chiropractor. It was such a relief when I finally started to feel better thanks to the great chiropractic care I received. That’s when I decided to start researching chiropractic care and how it could be used to treat different conditions. This blog contains the results of that research. If you’re looking for a way to feel better, you too may benefit from chiropractic healing. These articles will help you learn how.

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