A Guide to Stairlifts

This entry was posted in General March 2, 2018

Stairlifts can improve many people’s quality of living, however, sometimes those in need of one either do not realise it or may not want to accept that they require more assistance. If you are unsure as to whether a stairlift is the right option for you, or know somebody that you believe could benefit from the assistance of a stairlift, this guide will hopefully make the process of opting for a stairlift, a little easier.

Knowing when you need a stairlift

A stairlift is designed for those with limited mobility and/or those who struggle walking up and down stairs. For example, stairlifts can benefit people suffering from conditions such as MS, arthritis and even those with hip replacements. However, stairlifts are not strictly for those with medical conditions, they are also great aids for anybody who may have significantly reduced strength and flexibility that may have been caused by old age or following a procedure. Stairlifts help anybody living on more than one floor, giving people with reduced mobility more independence and confidence in their day-to-day life.

In many cases, those who do choose to have a stairlift installed tend to regret not getting one sooner because of how much it improves their circumstances. Of course, not all homes are suitable for stairlifts, however, there are a variety of stairlifts on offer, so more likely than not, you can find one suitable for you.

Different types of stairlifts

There is a wide range of different stairlifts available; this is simply so that as many people as possible have the option of a stairlift. However, there are two main types of stairlifts: straight or curved. As their names suggest, straight stairlifts are suitable for straight staircases and curved stairlifts are more suitable for staircases that have any bends, curves or landings. In addition to the stairlift track there are a variety of options including different seats, adjustable track options, powered footplates and more to ensure you find a stairlift as suitable to your personal needs as they can be. Outdoor stairlifts are also available to purchase. They work in the same way as indoor stairlifts do, they are fit for purpose and durable to outdoor conditions.

Buying a stairlift

Buying a stairlift doesn’t have to be a costly investment. It is reassuring to know that there are many options available for those who are in need.

Many retailers, for example, offer reconditioned stairlifts as a more affordable option, significantly reducing the cost of the investment. Another option for a more low-cost stairlift would be to hire one. This can be the perfect solution for those who require a stairlift for a set period of time, rather than permanently. For example, if you have just had an operation or are recovering from an accident, choosing to rent a stairlift can be the best temporary solution.

If you are looking for extra peace of mind with your stairlift, many stairlifts come with the option of service packages that act as a guarantee on your lift over a period of time, depending on which you opt for. Although this comes at extra cost, it may put you at ease to know that you are covered for a number of years.

Maintaining your stairlift

Once you have had your stairlift installed by a professional engineer, the stairlift aftercare is important in order to maintain the product. Most domestic types of stairlifts are fairly simple to use and maintain but it is important to note that regular servicing of the equipment is vital to prolong the life of your stairlift. Ableworld do provide these professional services to customers and also have a dedicated repair centre that are able to carry out servicing and repairs on the full range of stairlifts we offer.

If you have been considering a stairlift and want more information, you can request a free no obligation home visit from a trained engineer from us at Ableworld. Or, if you have any specific questions, you can come visit us in store or contact us and a member of our team would be happy to help.

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