Taking steps to move to the top
YOU’LL suddenly find things are looking up when you invest in a stairlift. That final obstacle to comfortable living has been conquered and you can move around your house with ease and comfort. Even now that you’re finding it harder to get about, you’ll no longer have to worry about popping downstairs for your glasses or nipping up to the bathroom.
Yet how do you choose a stairlift? First, the shape of your staircase. If it has a bend in it you need a model that can cope with the change of direction.
Then there are the things that make operation simpler. If your balance is a problem, go for a model that allows the footrest to be unfolded by a button on the arm, or folds simultaneously with the seat or arm, rather than having to bend down and do it yourself.
The key thing is to see whether it suits you – and whether others have found their stairlift is what they need. Visit a demonstration centre and go for a ride, trying out different models. And if you know someone with a stairlift, ask them whether they’re satisfied.
Not all stairlifts are equal so compare features and then prices, not just the stairlift itself but the full package, including installation and aftercare services.
Leader in the field is Stannah, its There’s the simple, smart Siena, the customisable Starla and the Sadler offering near upright posture, perfect for those with limited knee and hip movement, even one for outdoor stairs.
It might be that you want to chat about a stairlift before trying one. Stannah’s experts make free home visits, measuring and advising on which models would suit your home before you try them. The Envisage computer tool will let you see how it will look.
The price of any stairlift depends on whether any preparatory work (such as installing a new power point) needs to be carried out as well as the length and complexity of the stairlift rail required.
A Stannah stairlift system is a bespoke unit, yet it’s possible to have it installed in as little as three days and rarely longer than three weeks. Installation normally only takes a couple of hours as Stannah stairlifts fix to the steps and not the wall, leaving little mess.
Search out the stairlift that works for you and enjoy your home again – from top to bottom.