How to Choose the Right Stair LIft
Stair lifts are important safety tools, which are used to carry a single occupant up or down the stairs. They are very popular for use by seniors who may, as a result of arthritis, limited eyesight, or other diseases, no longer be able to walk safely up the stairs.
There are a number of different types of stair lifts available, but most share a similar design. Deciding what type of stair lift to invest in depends a great deal on the location where the stair lift will be installed, as well as the physical abilities of the person who will be using the stair lift.
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Things You'll Need
- Knowledge of where the stair lift will be used.
- Knowledge of who will be using the stair lift.
Instructions
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Determine what type of staircase is present in the home. Specifically, determine if it is straight, curved, or shaped like an 'L.'
If the stair lift is straight, there are a number of inexpensive, yet very reliable stair lifts available. Straight stair lifts can be installed quickly and easily, usually without the need for using a professional installer.
If the staircase is Curved, a special type of stair lift will be required. This is referred to as a curved stair lift and is usually very expensive. A curved stair lift can also not typically be installed by a home owner.
An 'L' Shaped staircase is basically two straight staircases that are put together at a 90 degree angle. These are far more common than curved staircases. It is possible to get a stair lift that is made for an 'L' shaped staircase or to use two straight stair lifts. Using two straight stair lifts will usually be less expensive, however it means the person will have to switch stair lifts at the landing, which can be both inconvenient and a little risky.
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Choose between a standing stair lift or a sitting stair lift.
Standing stair lifts are the least common type of stair lift and are also called perch lifts. A perch lift is great for those who have had a surgery, like knee replacement, and are unable to sit down easily. However, since the user of a perch lift is standing the whole time, they are not as safe, so should only be used if it is a medical necessity.
The sitting stair lift is by far the most common and safest option. These provide a chair for the occupant to use and often also include seat belts to make standing easier. A seated stair lift is the best choice in almost all cases.
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Decide between a battery powered stair lift or an Electric Stair Lift.
Electric stair lifts, or AC stair lifts, are less expensive, but do not work if the power goes out.
Battery Powered Stair Lifts, or DC stair lifts, are more expensive, but if there is a power loss in the home, the stair lift can still be used.
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Analyze the physical properties of the rider. This includes their weight, height, and how large of a seat they would need for their stair lift. Depending on their size, this might greatly limit what type of stair lifts are available.
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Consider the size of the staircase. If the staircase is very narrow, it might be necessary to use a standing stair lift, as opposed to a sitting stair lift. This is because standing stair lifts take up less space. Most sitting stair lifts, however, do feature fold up seats.
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Tips & Warnings
For all but curved stair lifts, the installation can often be done by the homeowner to save money. However, if you do not feel comfortable doing it, go with a professional installation instead.
Stair lifts greatly improve safety, but it is important to not use them as a toy and keep small children away from them.
Ensure that the stair lift has a built in footrest sensor, which detects objects on the stairs. All quality stair lifts have this, but some off brand models do not.
