People lose their mobility and independence as they age, which makes individuals feel less confident and more of a burden on their family. Hand rails can help the elderly get around but climbing the stairs is still a major challenge. Despite their stigma, stairlifts can help your relative get up and down whilst minimising the risk of falls. You may also consider hiring a senior in-home care provider for your elderly relative.
When is it Time to Get a Stair Lift?
Typical signs that suggest a person would benefit from a stairlift like straight stairlifts include an increased frailty, an ongoing illness or a recent fall, and regular complaints of feeling tired or short of breath. If any relative is prone to falls or may be starting to show hints of degenerative illness, a stair lift should be a major consideration. Benefits are far and wide and significantly reduce the risk of falls and the need for constant supervision.
You may face stubbornness from your relative when you suggest they need a stair lift. Some believe they’re more active and capable than they actually are. Others think it means they’re on the verge of incapacitation and will reject the idea. This is just wrong. Explain how it can increase their quality of life and will make them more independent.
Before committing to the investment, it’s also a good idea to get a professional opinion from a GP or occupational therapist. Each person is different and hearing it from a doctor may convince your relative.
What to Look for in a Stair Lift:
The most important features are the safety and reliability of the stair lift. Several companies offer many types of brands and some have better reputations than others. Ask for a free brochure from different companies and compare the price and specifications. Consult anyone you may know who uses one or read online reviews and forums. The more information you can get, the better equipped you are to choosing the right lift. Cardiff Stairlifts is a Leading stairlift company that can help you directly installed the lifts to your staircase.
Types of Stair Lift:
You need the most appropriate type to suit the needs of the user and to fit the staircase. Some come with a seat whereas others are perched and support the user in standing position. The second is more suitable for people who find it difficult to go from a seating to standing position. The style of staircase is a major factor such as extending in a straight line or going around a curve. Outdoor lifts are also available.
What’s the Next Step?
After you make a decision to get one, the company sends a surveyor to your home. The staircase and condition of your relative will be assessed before they advise you on the most suitable for your specific situation. Expect questions about mobility, dexterity to operate the stair lift, and any other details that help you to choose the right one. Consultations are vital and typically last around one hour.
Peace of Mind:
When the stair lift is correctly installed and your relative is comfortable using it, give them more freedom and independence around their home. You can also sleep easy knowing that they’re safer and the risk of falls is reduced.
