Choosing a Stairlift
Choosing the right stairlift is important as an incorrect decision could prove expensive and compromise the users' health, safety and comfort. TPG DisableAids can help you make the right choice, to ensure complete satisfaction.
Points to consider:
There are different types and styles of stairlift available and, in order to make the right choice, it is necessary to arrange a proper assessment of both the premises and the proposed user. An assessment would take into account the following details:
- Your House
- The design of your stairs
- Dimensions of your stairs
- Top/bottom of stairs, landings etc.
- Doorways
- Comfort
- You, the user.
Your House
Stairlifts can be fitted into most houses, but you will have less choice if you have a curved, spiral or unusually shaped staircase.
The design of your stairs
Straight Stairs: All manufacturers make lifts for straight stairs, so there are many models from which to choose.
Stairways with a brief turn at the top: You might feel able to get off the lift and walk up the last few steps, but you need to decide if you are likely to be able to go on doing this. Most straight starlifts can overcome this problem with an abridging platform that drops down and across to the landing.
Curved Stairs: There are fewer models to choose from, these stairlifts being custom made and therefore more expensive.
The Size of Your Stairs
Generally, stairlifts cannot be fitted to very steep or unusually narrow stairs; in most cases an angle of between 40º and 52º is required and a minimum stair width of 75cm (30”). Consideration must also be given to the lift’s weight capacity as most will not exceed 25st.
For those unable to bend their knees, as in a normal sitting position, a Stand and Perch stairlift may be the answer, also suitable for narrower stairs. reducing the danger of bumping your knees or feet. However, it is essential to ensure that sufficient headroom is available to avoid possible head injury. Narrower stairways can also present problems for other household members during normal usage of the stairs.
The Top of Your Stairs
In most houses there is enough space at the top and bottom of the stairs for getting on and off the lift comfortably and safely. However, obstructions like radiators and furniture need to be considered and sometimes removed or relocated..
Doorways
If there is a doorway close to the top or bottom of the stairs, or on a landing part of the way up, the stairlift will have to travel across it, effectively blocking the access. Obviously this presents a danger of tripping and even falling down the stairs. To overcome this problem a hinged rail can be installed as an option. These lift up and out of the way, either manually or electrically operated.
Comfort
Stairlifts need to be comfortable to sit on. If you have stiff limbs or difficulty bending your knees, a stand and perch lift, which has a small, high seat or ledge to give support during the ride, may be a suitable option.
You
When assessing the premises for the fitting of a stairlift, it is equally important to consider the user, noting weight, height and any disability or health condition which may affect their ability to use the stairlift. The type of armrests, manual or power swivel seat, safety lap belt, can all help to ensure the correct stairlift is chosen to suit the clients needs.
How to purchase a stairlift from TPG DisableAids
- An initial enquiry can be made by telephone, letter, email, or a visit to our showroom where you can try out our display models.
- An appointment will be arranged for one of our friendly and fully trained advisers to visit your home, at a time convenient to you.
- He will assess you and the premises,and all available options and details explained to you.
- A written quote will subsequently be posted out to you advising cost and outlining any other work needed to be completed prior to installation.
- The quote has a guaranteed period of 60 days, to allow you time for consideration and shopping around but, should you accept our quote and give us the go-ahead, a mutually suitable time and date will be arranged to complete the installation.
We also fit reconditioned units complete with 6 months warranty
For further information , literature or other details, please feel free to contact us (01432) 351 666 or email enquiries@tpg-disableaids.co.uk.
< Back
