A stairlift is a mechanical system that moves users up and downstairs. There are various types of stairlifts in the market and it’s imperative to select the one after careful considerations that best meets your current and future requirements.
Seated Stairlift
They are the most common stairlift style, where the user can sit easily on a seat that swivels at the top of the stairs to make moving from sitting to standing easier. This is advised that if you require a mobility aid that is bigger than a walking stick, then ensure that you have two of them at the top and bottom of the stairs because it is not practical to hold anything heavier on a stairlift.
Straight Stairlifts
Straight stairlifts will only travel up a straight staircase. They tend to be a more affordable and easy option, usually completing the installation in just a few hours. Straight stairlifts are attached to the step instead of the staircase wall so you don’t have to think about having to carry out lighting and decorating work. For your peace of mind, straight stairlifts are powered from the mains and are available with battery backup solution in the case of a power outage.
Curved Stairlifts
Curved stairlifts will be needed if your staircase is curved. In most cases, curved stairlift tracks are designed to match a single staircase to order. Except on tight curves, curved stairlifts run on a rail that ties very tightly to the ground. Almost all the curved stairlifts operate from rechargeable battery power. The seat needs to be in the right place to register because if it is in the wrong place there is a warning beep.
Perch Stairlifts
Perch stairlifts are ideally suited for those who find it challenging or awkward to rest. Such seats help the person beneath the knees, and there’s no pressure to switch hip or knee joints. The stairlift also incorporates a retractable seatbelt to make sure the passengers feel comfortable and secure.
All these kinds of lift can be confusing which is why one should look at the below tips when choosing a stairlift to buy.
Top tips for buying a stairlift
- Do not buy a stairlift without advice from experts: The only way the lift can be as secure and portable as possible is if it’s made to match the elevations. A made-to-measure stairlift would blend seamlessly into your home and conform to the safety standards that suit the particular stairs.
- Select a service you have faith in: Make sure you choose a supplier of stairlifts which is known as meeting national and international requirements. Check them out now to see what their consumers think. Be sure that the firm that you choose is certified by official organisations by reviewing their Awards and Accreditations website, and don’t be shy to ask them about the criteria they meet. The Age UK Mobility website shows one such promise of best quality product.
- Always verify the Warranty: For most cases, market-leading insurance comes with stairlifts manufacturing. Get the peace of mind that comes with buying something that you think you can invest in.
- Looking around: Just look at all the options, check out various companies and read comments online. Pay close attention to the tiny specifics, and you’re confident that you know just what they sell. Before you make a decision, familiarise yourself with what’s out there, and in your own time, you’ll be able to pick the best stairlift for you.
Buying a stairlift is a big decision because not only is it about mobility, it is also about independence it provides to the user. If you still have questions, don’t buy a stairlift. Get answers to all of your questions at the Age UK Mobility website before you buy a stairlift from the company you choose to go for.
