Stairlifts


Stairlifts and home lifts: time to raise your game


As the design of stairlifts and home lifts continues to be enhanced by the latest technology, an increasing number of care providers are installing them in new builds and retrofitting them in existing buildings to make them fully accessible to residents, staff, and visitors. Here, Alex Austin, business development manager (UK, Ireland, Benelux & Nordics – Platforms) at Access BDD, discusses what homes ought to consider when specifying one of these access solutions


The suitability of a stairlift or home lift in a care home environment depends on various factors, including the specific needs of residents, the layout of the care home, and budget constraints. Both stairlifts and home lifts have their advantages, and the choice should be based on the unique requirements of the home and its residents. Stairlifts are typically more cost-


effective than home lifts, making them a practical choice for homes with budget constraints. They are also often easier to retrofit into existing staircases, which can be a significant advantage if the home is not a new construction. However, they may not be suitable for residents with severe mobility challenges – such as those who rely on wheelchairs – and this is where a home lift offers an alternative solution Home lifts provide vertical


transportation between multiple levels, offering a more comprehensive accessibility solution. They can accommodate residents who use wheelchairs or mobility scooters, offering greater inclusivity. However, they are generally more expensive than stairlifts, which can be a limiting factor for homes with budget constraints. Installation may require more significant structural modifications to the building, and there may be space constraints for placement. Maintenance and servicing of home lifts can also be more complex.


Key considerations


When designing a new care home, architects and designers should take the following into consideration when it comes to installing stairlifts and home lifts: n It is vital that anyone involved familiarises themselves with local building codes and regulations related to


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accessibility and mobility aids, to ensure that all designs and installations comply with these standards to meet legal requirements.


n When looking at different solutions, it is always worth considering both indoor and outdoor installations, as some lifts may be required for access to garden areas or different levels of the building.


n It is important to allocate sufficient space for the installation of a stairlift or home lift to ensure that they do not obstruct any walkways or impede the flow of residents and staff.


n Lift design should be integrated into the overall aesthetics of the care home to create a harmonious and welcoming environment.


Lift design should be integrated into the overall aesthetics of the care home


n Specify lifts with advanced safety features, such as emergency brakes, backup power systems, and reliable sensors, to prevent accidents and ensure resident safety when in use. Ensure that home lift doors have adequate safety mechanisms to prevent trapping or injury.


n Assess the needs of staff and residents, including those with bariatric requirements, and select a stairlift or home lift that can comfortably accommodate their size and weight.


n Design the lift installation with ease of maintenance and service in mind. This includes creating access panels and pathways for technicians to perform routine maintenance and repairs with ease.


n Always look for a stairlift or home lift which has user-friendly controls, including options for residents with various levels of physical and cognitive abilities.


www.thecarehomeenvironment.com February 2024


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