Stair Lift Advantages

Falling down the stairs is the most common reason for hospitalization among people over 65.  Often this is as a result of Joint diseases like osteoarthritis, which can make bending the knee painful. A decreased sense of balanced also increases the risk of a fall, because it can make it harder to stay steady. One way to help prevent a fall down the stairs is by installing a stair lift.

A stair lift is a type of personal aid that is used to carry a person up and down the stairs. Stair lifts can be installed on both indoor and outdoor staircases, but if you are planning on using it outdoors, you must purchase an outdoor stair lift, which will be moisture proof and resistant to rust.

Most often a chair is used, but some lifts use a small platform called a perch to transport the rider. An electric motor is used to move the chair or perch the stairs along a metal track that runs the length of the stairs.

Usually the track will be secured directly to the steps and is made out of aluminum, which is lightweight, but very strong. If the staircase is exceptionally narrow or if it is curved, the track will be secured to the wall instead. Stair lifts that install directly to the steps can be installed fairly easily, but if you need to install it to the walls than you will probably need professional installation.

If you have a narrow staircase, you can sometimes purchase a low profile stair lift, which takes up less space because the chair folds, and you will not need a wall mounted track system.

Most models available for residential use plug into normal household electrical outlets. Increasingly battery powered stair lifts are becoming popular. The major advantage of a battery powered lift is that it will work even if the power goes out. They plug directly into a normal electrical outlet, but the lift is run off of a set of constantly recharging batteries.  These models tend to cost a little more than traditional stair lifts and you will have to check and replace the battery periodically. The cost of a replacement battery varies, but it is usually around $30.

Stair lifts are used in homes across the country and worldwide. They help to reduce the risk of falling down the stairs and provide you with peace of mind knowing that you or someone you love will always be able to use the stairs.