health & wellbeing
Which stairlift should you choose?
With so many options out there, it’s important to get the right stairlift for you, from sitting or standing to colours and cost
I
f your stairs have become a major obstacle or you risk falling it may be time to install a stairlift. Invented in America in the 1920s – repeated polio epidemics caused widespread mobility problems – this is a mechanical device that transports elderly or infi rm people safely up and down stairs. It can help you to retain your independence and to stay in your home for longer. It’s a major purchase, though, and requires careful consideration as to which of the many options best meet your needs.
Types of stairlift
Seated lifts – these often have adjustable (padded) seats in most colours to match your decor. For extra safety you can opt for a swivel seat (either manually controlled or powered) which rotates 90 degrees at the top and bottom of the stairs and locks into place. Perching lifts – these suit people who have trouble bending their knees or those with narrow stairs. There’s a plate to stand on and the ‘seat’ is more of a cushioned ledge with a safety arm. Within these are options to fi t straight and curved staircases:
Straight – with no bends, corners and half-landings. Installation costs from around £1,500 and takes 2-3 hours. Curved – these are custom-made and cost at least £4,000 new. Installation usually takes half a day.
Buying a stairlift
Questions to consider include: • Should you sit or perch? • What if something blocks it? • What’s the carrying capacity? • What if there’s a power cut? • What about after-sales service? • What are the running costs? • Is there a choice of colours? With so many available options it’s best to check out a specialist mobility or disability-equipment supplier fi rst. The Disabled Living Foundation, Rica (a national research charity), the British Healthcare Trades Association or the Lift and Escalator Industry Association can also help. Prices really vary, because stairlifts
are tailored to suit your requirements, but you may be eligible for fi nancial help. Rica and the DLF can help with this. To help you we’ve picked out a few stairlifts and compared their main features.
FURTHER
INFORMATION DISABLED LIVING FOUNDATION Call 0300 999 0004
www.dlf.org.uk
RICA Call 020 7427 2460
www.rica.org.uk
MOTABILITY OPERATIONS Call 0845 456 4566
www.motability.co.uk
ACORN Call 0800 326 5199
www.acornstairlifts.co.uk
HANDICARE Call 0800 228 9609 (Freephone)
www.ageukstairlifts.co.uk
MEDITEK Call 01740 623 823
www.meditek.co.uk
MINIVATOR Call 08700 118 282
www.handicare.co.uk
STANNAH Call 0800 715 455
www.stannahstairlifts.co.uk
TURN OVER TO SEE SIX TOP SUGGESTIONS
Planning For Later Life Magazine 37
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