It’s time to avoid going stair crazy
ASTAIRLIFT is a major investment both in terms of money and the impact it can have on the home. But it can revolutionise your life if your health is failing, giving you freedom to move around the house and making it possible to stay on in the treasured family home rather than move to sheltered accommodation. The advice is often to wait until it’s absolutely necessary before buying a stairlift but most people who invest in one say they wish they had done it sooner.
To make the decision easier, Age UK and leading mobility equipment manufacturer Handicare have created a five-point plan on the how, what and why of stairlifts.
1 Consider the options
Ask a professional to assess medical needs first. An occupational therapist can offer guidance on the best course of action and products, and then you can make your choice. Some people consider moving their bedroom downstairs but that requires having bathroom facilities to hand. A stairlift has minimum impact on lifestyle.
2 Check the house
Whether a stairway is straight, curved or has a number of landings there will be a stairlift to suit. Angle and gradient can affect the options, as can how narrow the stairs are and whether there are any obstacles at the top and bottom. It’s important to have enough room for your feet, knees and head and to store the seat and rail. Stairlift companies should visit and carry out a detailed assessment. A stairlift is fitted to the stairs, not the wall, so no structural alterations are needed – making one possible even in rented accommodation – and it can be fitted in less than a day.
3 Give it a go
If you know someone who has a stairlift, ask if it works for them – and ask for a trial run. Most stairlifts are easy to use, operated manually by the user with a button or joystick. Ask if they would recommend the company they used but contact at least three to compare service and prices.
4 Look at the cost
A stairlift made for an individual staircase, especially if it is curved, could top £6,000. However, a simple, straight stairlift can be bought for £2,000. Refurbished stairlifts with new track are often available too.
Disabled users can apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant from their local council (gov.uk/disabledfacilities-grants), which won’t affect existing benefits.
Over-60s pay only five per cent VAT on certain mobility aids supplied and installed in your home. A number of charities also offer financial help – see ageukmobility.co.uk. Stairlifts are economical, costing less to operate than a kettle. Most run on mains electricity with battery back-up.
5 Read the small print
Most manufacturers offer a warranty that includes a 24-hour no-fee call-out service for the first year, which covers spare parts. Check how comprehensive the service agreement is before you buy and ask whether there is a buy-back scheme. INFORMATION: For free advice or to arrange a home visit contact Handicare Working with Age UK: 0800 620 0079/ageukmobility.co.uk