Perch or swivel for a safer ride

MANY gadgets are available to help people living with arthritis, in any of its forms. And for those who are finding that getting around is becoming a serious problem, there are home adaptations such as a stairlift that might be helpful.

Arthritis Research UK recommends trying out a stairlift or home lift before you buy, if you can. Do this either at a Disabled Living Centre, where an occupational therapist or physiotherapist can advise, or in someone’s home.

Look out for user-friendly features, such as a joystick, which might be easier to use If you have hand or wrist problems. A swivel seat is also helpful. With this, the user ends up facing the landing at the end of a journey upstairs, making it easier to get on and off safely.

The seat should also have armrests to grip to make standing up easier.

For those with hip, knee or back problems, the height of the stairlift seat is important. There may be the option of a saddle-type seat that spreads your weight and allows you almost to ‘perch’. If you are unable to sit upright on a standard seat because of arthritis, check that your knees or feet won’t get caught against the opposite wall or banisters.

Don’t take a stick or walking frame on the stairlift with you, as it might catch on the steps or banisters when the lift is moving. Ask an occupational therapist for a second walking aid, so that you can keep one upstairs and one below.

A handrail near the stairlift might be useful if you feel unsteady at the top of the stairs. And there are models with retractable rails that allow access to doorways.