Home Wheelchair Lifts

For those people who have limited mobility they find the situation very stressful especially as they find themselves having to rely on others more and more and so lose the independence that they once had. In some cases because they feel that they do not have the right to live they lose a lot of self confidence and will often become quite depressed.

However for these people there is an alternative which can help to ensure that they do lead as normal a life as their limited mobility allows them and so gain back some of their own independence. Therefore isn’t it about time that they and their loved ones considered having some kind of home wheelchair lifts installed in their property.

By having such a device installed in their homes many people who find that they are restricted to being in a wheelchair can actually begin to lead a much more normal life than they would have thought possible. Today these devices come in a wide range of different colors and styles and also come with a number of different features and functions. In fact when it comes to choosing the right model for your own particular home can be quite difficult so below I will provide some tips which should help you to get the best one that will suit the user’s requirements.

1. When you are looking to purchase a home wheelchair lift, you should be looking closely at just what it is that you want and need out of the device. Therefore look at all the different models and only choose the one which best meets all of their requirements.

2. Look at the material that the lift is made from, remember the person you are purchasing it for may actually have sensitive skin and by purchasing a wheelchair lift that is made from the wrong material could actually cause them problems when they use it.

3. Also consider how convenient the wheelchair lift is going to be for the user. It is best that you purchase a model which either is automatic or where the functions are operated on it by a battery.

4. Look closely at the warranty offered by the manufacturer of the equipment. Today most home wheelchair lifts manufacturers offer between a 3 and 4 year warranty on their various models to a purchaser. Also ensure that you obtain you copy of the warranty in case you need to obtain replacement parts or you find that the one you have purchased is either defective or does not work properly.

By keeping the above tips in mind you should be able to find and purchase the perfect kind of home wheelchair lifts which will suit the user’s requirements and needs.

Straight Stairlifts

Straight stairlifts is a chair placed on the side of your stairs that will take you up them without having to walk. These are especially useful if you have any kinds of disabilities or illnesses which restrict you from climbing stairs or make climbing stairs difficult.

Straight stairlifts only go straight up the stairs meaning that they are ideal if you have one set of stairs that don’t bend round corners.

Getting into and out of these straight stairlifts have been made easier to get into and out of in the last few years. Many of them will swivel around when you get the the top or bottom of the stairs allowing you to easily get out of the chair without having to twist. The lifts are also really easy to use, all you have to do is press a button and hey presto the chair will move up the stairs. Straight stairlifts get off to smooth and easy starts and also stop very smoothly allowing for a easier experience.

You can get many different types of seats for straight stairlifts which is very good because you can get very comfortable chairs and many different materials can be used, so you shouldn’t have any difficulties in finding the perfect chair for you. Straight stairlifts are also easy to store, they are very thin allowing for the stairs to be used still anyway but if you do still need more space then the chair can be folded away allowing for more space on the stairs

Straight stairlifts do not need to be made loud either you can get them with very quite motors therefore allowing for you to use the lift at any point and not disturb others. Most straight stairlifts also come with battery packs added into them as well as being plugged into the mains allowing for you to carry on using your straight stairlifts even when a power cut occurs.

Also when you get straight stairlifts installed you may want to request an extra remote control if others in the house or building are going to be using it aswell. If you have a second control you will be able to bring the chair from upstairs to downstairs easily if it has been left up there leaving you downstairs. This can happen a lot if others are using the stairlifts aswell.

Most straight stairlifts come fitted with sensors that can tell when someone or something may be in the way. If there is a object in the way then the chair will sense this and stop going into the object allowing for safe stair climbing at all times.

Straight stairlifts can be fitted quite quickly as well compared to other types of stairlifts. They should be able to be fitted within a matter of others but this can vary depending on what your stair set is like. If you have a difficult staircase then it can take longed than a few hours to install but this is the general time.

Straight stairlifts also have a docking bay usually where they will automatically recharge, saving you from forgetting or not being able to charge the chair.

Choose The Right Wheelchair Lift Manufacturer

The best thing that a handicapped person can do to improve his or her mobility is to get a wheelchair lift. For people, who because of their condition, finds it risky and difficult to climb up and won stairs, they should consider buying a wheelchair stair lift.

Getting a home wheelchair stair lift is definitely much cheaper than moving into a one story house. Not all people are willing to move to a new residence just because of a disability or a handicap.

If you are serious about buying a wheelchair lift, it is highly advisable that you seek professional advice. This is because wheelchair lifts are machines that can be initially confusing to operate. So it is better to find someone who can explain to you the technicalities of the wheelchair lift operations in layman's terms so you would easily understand them. One of the best people to ask about wheelchair lift is an occupational therapist.

Of course, you can always ask the manufacturers of wheelchair lifts. Because they make wheelchair lifts, they are sure to have all the answers to your questions.

In buying a wheelchair lift, it is advisable to go to at least three manufacturers before making a purchase. This is because wheelchair lifts may vary in functions and price. So it is wise to make research before you buy one. It is also advisable that you determine your budget and your needs before buying a wheelchair lift.

Doing research about wheelchair lifts and about their manufacturers can also help protect you from unscrupulous individuals who are just after making a fast buck. Unfortunately, there are manufacturer that are seemingly taking advantage of the misfortunes of other individuals.

The best manufacturers of wheelchair lifts mostly have demonstration centers where you can actually see their products at work. Some of this demonstration center would even allow you to test the devices yourself.

Wheelchair lift technology has definitely improved in recent years. But of course, some wheelchair manufacturers are more technologically advanced than other. It is up to you, of course if you want to pay extra for advanced technology or not.

You should also consider maintenance cost when buying wheelchair lifts. Most reputable manufacturers would provide free maintenance for your wheelchair lifts. You should also ask about the availability of spare parts. This would make it easier to fix the wheelchair lift if ever it breaks down.

Wheel Chair Lifts - Up, Up, and Away

A wheel chair lift is designed to allow those who must use a wheelchair easier accessibility to shops, restaurants, businesses, and any other public facility. There are many types of wheelchair lifts. The type a facility has will depend on the design of the building and the amount of money the facility has to spend on such equipment. Churches often have the older type of wheel chair lift that a person sits in. This requires them to move from their wheel chair to the seat of the lift.

Power wheelchair lifts are commonly found on vans and other vehicles. They allow wheel chair bound individuals the ability to get in and out of a vehicle with ease. This is very important for them to maintain as much of an ordinary life as possible. Many individuals who are in a wheelchair still work, do their own shopping, and enjoy social gatherings. A power wheel chair lift offers a way for them to be as self-sufficient as possible under the circumstances.

Wheel chair stair lifts are designed for both indoor and outdoor use. They are also used by individuals who have difficulty going up and down stairs. The lift has a platform to roll the wheelchair onto or for an individual to stand on. It then lifts above the stairs where the individual is able to disembark from the lift. The same process is used to go back down the stairs. This is a great alternative to using the elevator and is also safe to use in the event of a fire.

Another useful type is the vertical wheel chair lift. This works almost the same way as an elevator, except the space is much smaller. The front has a door that opens when a button is pushed. The person in the wheelchair rolls into the space. There is generally enough room for another individual to enter the vertical wheel chair lift with the person in the wheelchair. Inside the lift are buttons similar to an elevator. Choose the button for your destination and you will be taken up or down depending on your choice. Once the lift has reached that location, the door will open much as the doors on an elevator do.

Handicap wheel chair lifts are designed to meet the special needs of those who use them. They may be similar to the wheel chair stair lift or the vertical wheel chair lift. They often have safety features in place and a bar inside to allow the person to pull themselves in or hold on during movement.

Wheel chair lifts come in many designs, all with the same goal of allowing those who use a wheel chair access to all the same facilities that the rest of society enjoys. They are made to be easy to use as well as accessible from ramps and other wheel chair accessible points of entry. If you require additional help, most facilities will have assistance available to help individuals with the proper use of wheel chair lifts.

Advantages of Stairlifts

Stairlifts are part of the wide spectrum of mobility solutions that have revolutionized the lives of Americans with disability. These solutions have been required by the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) to be installed in commercial establishments. Now the advantages of stairlifts can be felt by all who’ve been benefited by the independence and comfort it offers for the elderly and the disabled.

First produced and marketed in the 1930s chiefly among victims of polio, the stairlift was first designed in the 1920s by the Pennsylvania’s C.C. Crispen to help his sick friend climb stairs. The plan was to create a chair that could climb stairs! The simplicity of the concept is probably the reason contributing to the increasing popularity of stairlifts.

• They don’t take much space, only require rails to be fixed in an unobtrusive way by the side of the staircase.

• The electric and/or battery-powered (AC – alternating current) chair is fixed on one end and travels through the rails.

• Available for all kinds of staircases – straight, curved or spiral – one of the advantages of stairlifts is that they’re the least expensive of all mobility solutions, requiring much lesser green than the residential elevator and platform lift.

Stairlifts are relatively simpler to install, with only installation for the curved and spiral staircase requiring more time and customization. The more complex the design of the staircase, the greater the costs of installation incurred and the time taken to deliver the finished stairlift. In such cases it generally takes up to 3 months for delivery, depending on the manufacturer. With straight staircases though, the complexity and costs are significantly reduced. The cost of the stairlift is directly proportional to the extent of your need.

Stairlift rails are made from steel or aluminum, with steel the choice for curved and complex staircases. With 90-degree and 180-degree swivel seats available, the user could experience more comfort and flexibility.

• Bruno Stairlifts create some of the most technologically advanced of stairlifts in the market, their model list also including the exclusive outdoor straight-ail straight lift.

• Acorn and Stannah are some of the other leading stairlift manufacturers offering a good number of features.

Let the advantages of stairlifts help your elderly or disabled loved ones experience sweet freedom.

Who Could Benefit From a Stairlift

If you are having problems climbing up and down stairs, then going to bed and getting up in the morning can be hard work. Perhaps you will decide to sleep downstairs instead. Once it has become too difficult to climb the stairs, you might decide that the house will need to be rearranged so that there is a bedroom and a bathroom downstairs, or you will decide to move to a bungalow with no stairs to climb.

Another option is a stairlift. Stairlifts can provide a great deal of freedom and independence, and can mean that there’s no need to move house to a bungalow, or build an extension, or convert other rooms in the house. A stairlift can be fitted quickly and easily in a few hours so that the inconvenience is minimal, and you can regain the use of all the rooms in the house.

Stair lifts are available in different lengths to fit different staircases. When you decide to have a stairlift fitted, a qualified person will visit the house to measure the length and angle of the stairs, and check that there is sufficient space for the stairlift at the bottom and top of the stairs. The questions asked should cover such subjects as whether you are left or right handed, whether you can lift your feet to step height, whether you have difficulties getting out of a chair at normal height, and the nature of the problem causing problems getting up and downstairs. Depending on the style of the stairlift and house, any doors and power points will be taken into consideration.

If there is a doorway at the bottom of the stairs, a standard track would obstruct the doorway, and be a hazard. A hinged track resolves this problem. With a manual hinged track, the stairlift is sent back up the staircase, and then the hinged track has to be folded back by hand. An automatic hinged track is folded back automatically using the remote control.

Modern stairlifts are quiet, reliable and are controlled by an easy to use joystick. This joystick can be on either armrest, to suit the user’s needs, depending on the make and model of stairlift. At least one remote control handset is usually provided with the stairlift, so that the stairlift can be called from either the top or the bottom of the stairs, and is ideal if there are two or more users.

The seat and footrest are comfortable, and help to provide a smooth ride. Stairlifts have a soft start and stop design, so that there is no jolt as the stairlift starts and stops. The seat will swivel and lock into place to aid getting on and off the stairlift. Stairlifts have park points which are usually at each end of the track and possibly in the middle if it is a curved track. The stairlift recharges the battery when it is on the park points, so that the stairlift is always charged and ready to use. If the stairlift is parked somewhere other than a park point, the stairlift will beep so that the user knows to park it properly.

In the event of a power cut, the built in battery back up system will ensure that the user is never stuck at the top or bottom of the stairs. This battery backup is usually enough for approximately ten journeys. The stairlift is likely to have a self diagnostic display, so that in the unlikely event of a malfunction, the stairlift engineer can remedy the fault quickly and easily, usually over the phone. This method also avoids having to wait for an engineer to visit the house, leaving the stairlift out of action for a while.



With a sit and stand stairlift, you can choose whether to sit on the seat and travel up and down stairs normally, or stand up to go up and down stairs. The option to stand might be beneficial to those who have problems bending their knees, or when there might be two or more users with different needs. If the width of the stairs means that a traditional stairlift isn’t suitable, or the user’s legs will not allow the user to sit down properly, then a perch stairlift might be more suitable. A perch lift allows the user to safely perch on the stairlift and has the same safety features. The stairlift seat and footrest will usually fold away, and a perch seat is very narrow, so that the stairlift is not intrusive for other people climbing the stairs.

Modern safety features mean that the stairlift won’t operate if the carriage hits an obstruction on the stairs, or if the seat, footrest or armrests aren’t in the correct positions, and will always stop when it reaches the top and bottom of the stairs. A lockable isolation switch prevents unauthorised use of the stairlift, which can be used when children are visiting for example.

It is important to check that the stairlift has the latest safety and technology features. For example without an overspeed governor, (OSG), the stairlift could rapidly descend the stairs in the event of a component or system failure. Other safety features include a swivel seat, so that you can get on and off safely, and DC power. DC power means there is no trailing mains cable, and so no danger of an electric shock.

Outdoor stairlifts are also available to overcome steps up to the front door or to the garden for example. As well as being especially designed and suitable for outdoor use, the majority of outdoor stairlifts are very similar to indoor stairlifts. They will also be as quiet and comfortable as their indoor counterparts, and provide the same safety features and convenience.

A stair lift for a curved staircase will often be very expensive, and it will usually be much cheaper, where possible, to have two straight stairlifts and some way of transferring between the two, rather than a curved stairlift.

Types of Stair Lifts

Stair lifts are equipment that can be installed on all types of staircases, either straight, spiral, or curved, for disabled people to move up and down the stairs. They can be set up and removed very easily. There are several types of stair lifts. Some of them have folding tracks, folding arms, and various other controls.

The seated stair lifts are specifically designed for people who are able to walk but have problem with climbing stairs. This type of list is useful if you use crutches. The idea behind this lift is to make sure you are independent from needing help. The seated stair lift has a chair that swivels and has liftable armrests, so that the transfer from and in to the seat is made easy. Seat belts provide the required safely to a seated stair lift.

The standing stair lifts are for people who can walk and stand, but may be using a walking stick, making it difficult for them to go up and down the stairs without help. In cases where the legs are stiff due to a medical problem or unable to bend due to an injury, then standing stair lifts are extremely helpful. These type of lifts are also useful when the staircases are narrow, as they occupy less space. The safety factor is taken care of by the guardrails.

The perching stair lifts are a slight variation from the standing ones, in the sense, a small seat is provided to rest your back on. This is perfect for people who do need a little support but do not need to be seated. This is again a great choice where space is limited. Guardrails are provided to take care of the safety element.

A wheelchair lift is a wonderful piece of equipment that is a great boon to handicapped people. This helps them move up and down the stairs with ease, in their wheelchair. This is actually great if you take the emotional factor too. People who are handicapped strive to be independent and most hate to depend on people all the time. This lift obviously occupies a lot of space and it is good to use on staircases that are wide.

The exterior stair lift is a lift that is used outdoors. These lifts are useful when there is very less staircase space inside, but they have their own set of problems when it rains or snows.

Most stair lifts have built-in sensors that detect any obstruction in their path and stop automatically. Stair lifts should be bought only after professionals evaluate your home and suggest the type of lift that will provide convenience of use and is practical for your home.

Stair Railings Are Vinyl and PVC

Two materials which work great for front porch stair railings are vinyl and PVC. These materials are wonderful because they do not splinter, they are smooth to the touch, and they are slip-resistance for maximum safety. These materials are also extremely durable, hold up well to weather exposure, and they will not burn your hands during the summer because they do not hold heat like some materials. PVC is resistant to UV light, which will help prevent fading or other color changes due to sun exposure. Both vinyl and PVC come in many different colors and vinyl even comes in wood grain design if you want the look of wood, but the durability and ease of use of vinyl.

Wood front porch stair railings are another option that you may want to consider. Wood is a traditional material for homes that give character like nothing else. There are so many different varieties and species of wood that you can use to make your front porch stair railings. Cedar wood is a wonderful choice, because it offers you decay resistance, as well as being insect resistant. Cedar will also handle moisture much better than other wood species. You will find that there are other wood options that you may want to consider as well, including composite woods. Composite wood front porch stair railings will be durable, water resistant, and will need little maintenance. They are also decay, insect, and UV light resistance, which will help them to stay beautiful for many years. Composite wood does not splinter, either.

Iron front porch stair railings are another material to consider. Iron is widely used as a railing material due to its durability and strength. Iron offers you a beautiful way to help enhance your home. Iron is a wonderful material because it can be made in almost any design that you can think of-from animals to shapes to even letters. It is very durable and will probably outlast your home. You will love the classic look that iron can add to your front porch.

By choosing the right materials for you and your home, you will find that your front porch stair railings can be functional and enhance your home.

Information on Stairlifts

Stairlifts come in two main forms; straight and curved. If you stairs turn or are spiral then the likelihood an ordinary or straight stairlift won't fit and a curved stairlift will need to be fitted. It is worth noting that in some cases it may be possible to combine two straight lifts to overcome a turn, which is usually cheaper to install than a curved one. If you staircase is straight then a straight starlift will fit. However, either option will increase you independence in your own home and remove any problems or concerns you have when climbing your stairs.

Once you have established that you require a curved stairlift or straight one there are two option available to you. First you can purchase a reconditioned or second hand stair lift. This is very feasible when purchasing a straight lift as they are usually more common and of standard fit. However, it is fairly unlikely that you will find a reconditioned one that will perfectly fit your stairs. The second option is to purchase a new one.

Buying a new stairlift.

When buying a new stairlift it is important to obtain at least three quotes to ensure you are getting value for money. The quote may vary considerably, but also consider other factors such as warranty offered, service backup, when it can be installed. Check out the companies credential such as how long have they been trading for, customer testimonials, company knowledge etc. Do not be pressured into buying on the day, take the information they offer and quote and take time thinking about it. Don't rush.

If you live near the retailers it may be possible to visit their showroom and try the lift you are interested in, ensuring it is comfortable and easy to control.

Ownership.

Once you stairlift has been installed then you need to consider regular servicing and maintenance. As with any mechanical product with moving parts wear and tear will occur. Hence it is important to service regularly to ensure everything is in good working order and safe. The company from which you are purchasing the lift may be able to offer a maintenance package to complement the warranty. In some cases they will insist the stair lift is serviced to validate the warranty. Most warranties are for one year, but you can purchase entered warranties. Remember you do not have to purchase extended warranties for the company from which you purchased the stair lift. Shop around you may get a better deal.

Straight Stair Lift

A straight stair lift is a powered driven stair lift that travels in a straight track. It is mostly used in homes where the stairs have no curves or bends. It is also often used in the outdoors for example the garden.

Straight stair lifts are mostly installed in homes to carry the disabled and the elderly up the straight flight of stairs. It can be used for other purposes as well such as carrying heavy loads. Examples can be grocery or heavy luggage.

Most stair lifts nowadays uses remote control that will take the chair to another floor which provides more convenience.

Before installing a straight stair lift, stair lift manufacturers will have to do an assessment of your home to determine if your home can install a straight stair lift. For instance, some straight staircases have a projection at the top of the stairs and it may not be possible to install a straight stair lift. This is particularly so if you plan to install a stair lift that lifts a wheelchair instead of the turnaround seat.

Generally speaking, a straight stair lift takes the shortest time to install and is also cheaper than curved stair lifts. The other factor that determines the cost of installing a straight stair lift is the length of the track that needs to be installed.

I would recommend if you want to install a straight stair lift to get several quotes from stair lift manufacturers or dealers if deciding. You might want to consider a second hand stair lift if you do not have the budget to buy a new stair lift since it can be expensive.

The Difference Between Stair Lifts and Vertical Platform Lifts

Going up and down the stairs can be a hard task for many different people that suffer from arthritis, are older, suffer from a muscular disease, or are in a wheelchair. For these individuals it may not be safe or even possible to go up and down the stairs. This can be extremely frustrating because there is a whole section of your house that can not be used. There are several mobility related products on the market today that can help a mobility challenged person conquer the stairs. The most common solution is to install either a vertical platform lift or a stair lift.

A vertical platform lift is similar to a mini-elevator. It installs on the side of the stairs and travels vertically up and down. Vertical platform lifts consist of a platform that varies in size, depending on the model, with a set of handrails or walls attached to the platform. Vertical platform lifts are often referred to as wheelchair lifts. This is because they are made so that a wheelchair, power chair, or mobility scooter can be driven onto the platform. Vertical platform lifts are also used to access areas of different elevations such as a stage or bleachers. A vertical platform lift can only be installed on certain types of stairs. In order to function properly, the vertical platform lift must be able to vertically raise the platform the distance of the steps and access the top landing vertically. This is as opposed to accessing it across horizontal distance of the actual steps. A vertical platform lift is ideal for an outside porch, because most landings on porches have two exposed sides that a vertical platform can use.

A stair lift is also an aid to help people that cannot climb the stairs on their own, but it works differently than a vertical platform lift. Where a vertical platform lift raises the individual vertically in the air, a stair lift is much more similar to an escalator. A stair lift raises a chair or small platform along a track that is bolted to the steps. Residential stair lifts are generally not designed to carry wheelchairs or other mobility vehicles up the stairs. They do, however, have available baskets to help carry belongings up the stairs and they also have a high weight capacity, similar to vertical platform lifts. Stair lifts can be installed inside or outside and no matter how your stair case is designed, there is probably a stair lift that will be able to attach to it. They also are generally less expensive than vertical platform lifts.

Deciding on whether to get a vertical platform lift or a stair lift will depend on several factors. If you need to be able to transport your wheelchair or other mobility vehicle while you are on it than probably a vertical platform lift will be best for you. If you do not need your mobility vehicle and depending on the type of stairs you have then a stair lift may be the best choice. Regardless it is no longer necessary to feel trapped in your own home simply because you can not use the stairs.

Residential Stair Lifts

Many Americans whether due to age or disability are not able to use large portions of their homes because they can not safely navigate the stairs. This can be very hard on the individual and their family. A stair lift, using a remote control or set of mounted buttons, carries an individual up and down the stairs. Most stair lifts work by mounting an aluminum track to the stair case and then sending an attached chair up and down the distance of the stairs. For individuals that have trouble sitting, there are models available with small platforms as well. For most though the stair chair is going to provide the most comfort and stability.

When you are in the market for a stair lift there are several things to consider. As long as you have a straight stair case the installation is fairly easy and inexpensive. A curved stair case will usually require a completely custom made track and is a good deal more expensive and needs to be professionally installed. If your stair case is not straight there may still be a way to use a standard stair lift and save money. A common design for stair cases is an L shaped curve. These L shaped staircases are really just 2 straight stair cases with a landing in between. In these instances it is usually considerably less expensive to purchase 2 traditional stair lifts and install them on each stair case. Incredibly narrow stair cases can also prevent problems because if it is too narrow than the stair lift must be mounted to the wall instead of the steps. Wall mounted stair lifts are more expensive and harder to install, so it may be necessary to get it professionally installed. There are a good many low profile stair lifts that do not take up much stair space, though, unless your stair case is very narrow you should not have any problems finding one that will fit perfectly.

Whether you plan on buying a new stair lift or a used stair lift it is never a good idea to buy one second hand from a private individual. When you purchase a used stair lift from a private individual, there is no way to tell if the unit has been completely abused or is unsafe. Stair lifts are made using incredibly reliable and high quality materials, such as high test aircraft cable, but like anything if you misuse it there is no way to guarantee the safeguards will hold up. Instead of taking this incredible risk with yourself or someone you loves life, you should purchase the stair lift from a reputable dealer. A reputable dealer will fully inspect, refurbish, and then test any stair lift they sell you. When you purchase a used stair lift from a reputable dealer it is in complete factory working condition and compliance. In addition they will offer a minimum 6 month warranty. You get not such guarantees from a private individual and could be very well inheriting a headache or an extreme safety hazard.

Disability Living Aids -- Stair and Bath Lifts

Tripping down or falling are some of the problems faced by the elderly and the partially immobilized. The injury from the falls in turn leads to further disability and limits independent and active life. Simple changes in the environment and life styles can stop the likelihood of tripping down or falling.

The barrier of stairs can be removed by using a stair lift. These electrically operated devices are easy to use and not very expensive.
Stair lifts are also known as stair gliders, stair chairs or chair lifts. They carry the disabled or the elderly gently and safely up the stairs. Ensure that the stair lift can swivel at the upper landing and turn away from the stairs to provide a confident and safe method to get off. If the stair lift comes with a remote control, it will assist the caregiver in case the individual could not operate the controls themselves.

When selecting a stair lift ensure it can maneuver curved and narrow stairs. It should also negotiate corridors and intermediate landings without any problem. There should be a battery back-up available in the stair lift so that during power outages, the lift should continue to operate. For more info visit www.only-disabled-aids.info

One of life’s pleasures is to relax in the bath easing away the aches, stresses and pains. To assist the disabled and the senior citizens lacking easy mobility to enjoy the therapeutic value of a bath, a bath lift can be used.

Bath lifts have a seat, which in turn fitted in the bath, and it moves up and down. The user can slide from the side of the bath into the seat and the lift lowers the user gently into the bath. Similarly, after the bath, the seat lifts the user to the top of the bath.

Batteries power most of the bath lifts and the lifts can also work from the mains. The batteries are a safe back up in case of power outage.

Bath lifts are not suitable for users who cannot get on and off the seat of the lift and who cannot lift the legs over the rim of the bath. Persons with such acute disabilities, a hoist or a fixed lift are more suitable than the portable bath lift.

Most of the bath lifts available on the market fit in the standard shaped baths. In order to hold its place the bath lifts are provided with a sucker at every corner of its base.
Ensure that the bath seat can go deep into the bath so that a deeper bath with less water is assured.

Can a Stair Lift Prolong Your Independence?

Mobility aids such as stair lifts and rolling walkers can keep us moving around our home and living independent for a longer time. Being independent keeps us happier and helps us to live longer. But is longevity a blessing or a curse?

Quotes such as "We are on the verge of the first ever mass geriatric society" from the PBS show Frontline catch our attention and beg us to ask ourselves the question of what will we do when we're very old? According to a joint report by ABC news and USA Today called "Living Longer, Living Better", most people are happy to live, on average, to about 87, that is if they stay in good health and can continue caring for themselves.

What happens when a person has a stroke or a chronic illness that decreases their mobility? Going quietly to the old age home is not an option many elderly will agree to these days. The stories about institutional living are out and they don't get high marks. Plus a change of address at 85 or 90 comes at the worst time for most, when they are least able to adapt.

Staying in Your Own Home

It is possible to continue living in your own home or apartment, even though you may have some minor mobility issues, just by making a few changes.

Can you still walk unaided or do you need a cane or rolling walker? Mobility equipment such as this is important to keep you from falling as you move about your home. If you are prone to falling, it advisable to wear some sort of emergency contact device at all times, so if you do fall and are debilitated, you'll be able to make an emergency call.

Make sure the pathways to and from the bathroom, bedroom, kitchen and living room in your home are unobstructed. And set up night lights so you don't have to stumble around in the dark.

Add bars to your tub or shower and around your toilet to give you a secure hand hold when using the bathroom.

Consider getting weekly or daily help picking up groceries, medication, for general house cleaning and any other tasks you are unable to do. If this is not something that fits into your fixed income budget, looked into the volunteer options available to seniors in your community. There are many such programs that offer services to seniors for free.

Adding a Stair Lift

Many people make plans to move to single story homes or apartment if mobility is an issue, but if this is not an option available to you, consider adding a stair lift to your home. These can be expensive and Medicare won't cover any of the costs (your insurance company may cover a portion so be sure to look into that). Generally you are looking at about $1700 to $2500 to install a stair lift to fit a straight staircase in your home. If you need one to fit a curved staircase, that will cost more.

Other Factors to Consider when Purchasing a Stair Lift

If the installation of a brand new stair lift is cost prohibitive, you may want to consider a used lift. The downside to purchasing one used is that it won't be under warranty. Look into buying from a reputable dealer that refurbishes and installs used lifts and offers a limited warranty. If you do purchase a used lift, make sure the chair is in good shape, that it still swings out smoothly and that the seat belt works.

You can choose between stair lifts that run on rechargeable batteries or AC power. Why would you want one over the other? Battery operated lifts are not subject to power outages, run smoother and installation is easier because there is no wiring when installing them. AC lifts can overcome being stopped by a power outage by having a battery backup and even though you may spend a bit more on the installation, you won't have to replace expensive rechargeable batteries to operate your lift.

Electric Stair Lift Devices - Are They Really Worth It?

An electric stair lift comes in different makes, models and functions and it can be rather difficult to determine whether to get a home stair lift, wheel chair stair lift or an electric stair lift. When you go to buy a car you generally have an idea of what your basic needs are. Not just seating capacity but most importantly just how much you can afford to spend. This is the same with chair lifts. You must first know exactly how you'd like the device to aid you in your daily life.

Being able to move around and be mobile has always been a problem for those with physical challenges. Arthritis, Parkinson's Disease and many others make it tough. Whether it is at home, in the office or going to church. Those who are chair bound often need assistance with basic everyday functions like going up an down the stairs, making it to the bathroom and such.

Some people employ visiting nurses in their homes. A visiting nurse can do many things in addition to the nursing elements. She will likely become a part of the family since she would be visiting daily. Her routine could include light house cleaning, social visiting and medication refinements.

Sometimes an important consideration is forgotten in terms of how the chair bound person will be able to use vehicles. Whether they can get in or out of the vehicle is often a major challenge. On one occasion I assisted a fellow church member in getting her mother in and out of the car. It was very difficult because many of these peoples conditions would worsen if they fall. This lady was over 400 pounds and a fall would require a call to the Fire Department to get her back into her chair. One simple solution would be a mobility device to take her from different levels of her home. But with regards to loading her into a regular passenger car, I think its better to call a van service with a motorized platform attached.

Some people balk at these devices but they really are meant to allow people with physical challenges to lead a more "normal" life. Many people feel the ease of control and self direction is superior to sitting at home in what amounts to be "solitary confinement". However, the price for installation and servicing of the most basic electric stair lift can easily run into thousands of dollars.

I've seen models start at $496.00 which is very modest for most working adults. But for someone on a pension or fixed income situation the additional features and maintenance of the device could prove to be to much for their budget. One should not treat the investment such a device as a lottery game. The results could prove very unfavorable for your health and well being. Generally speaking you should focus on three aspects during your selection process.

1. How safe is the device? With this you'd likely have to do a little internet research. Just Google the term "wheel chair stair lift" + safety Next, go examine the pages that are presented for that search you just did in Google.

2. How comfortable will you be in the unit? This is a question you should probably try to solve after you've narrowed down your top three selections. Because I am going to suggest that you have an odd number to compare one versus the others. This eliminates confusion and feeling overloaded as a result of looking at and talking with to many sales representatives.

3. Just how convenient will the home stair lift fit into your lifestyle? Do you have a large multi floored home? If so, this stair lift may be of a necessity for you.

Many people feel more at ease with having a unit to assist them in the home. The amount of security you feel as a result of gaining most of your mobility back is hard to estimate.

Some of the popular home stair lift brands are Acorn, Ameriglide and Braun. Whenever you speak with a sales professional be certain to find out if they work with any Governmental agencies like Medicare to get a much lower price on your unit.