If you are still able to get around at a reasonable level but you find stairs a bit trying, then perhaps it is time to consider investing in a stairlift.
Here at Simply Stairlifts we often hear customers lamenting that having a stairlift fitted is tantamount to “giving up” and a sign of losing independence. But in actual fact it’s just the opposite!
After installation, customers frequently come back to us to say just how the stairlift has changed their lives, and wished they have purchased one sooner.
So how do you actually know when is the right to to buy a stairlift?
From numerous conversations with happy customers we have put together a shortlist of pointers:
- Fear of falling
This is something we can all identify with, but it is even worse if you’re unsteady on your feet.For the elderly, falls are a particularly frightening prospect. A fall could mean serious damage with potential long lasting effects. Having a stairlift takes away the fear, and the potential, of falling on the stairs.
- Medical conditions
If you suffer from a medical condition such as Parkinsons, Alzheimers, Osteoporosis, a previous hip fracture or Arthritis, and/or are visually impaired, you are more at risk of misjudging your footing and having a fall on the stairs. For safety’s sake it’s a wise choice to opt for a stairlift.
- Taking time
Consider how many times a day you need to climb up and down the stairs, then multiply that by a week. Now think about how long it takes to make that journey between floors. If it takes you five minutes or longer to climb up the stairs then you would clearly be better off with a stairlift.With a stairlift you can whip you up and down your stairs in less than a minute.
- Unpleasant experience
If you puff and pant when climbing a flight of stairs, perhaps even becoming a bit dizzy or feeling faint, you can take away the strain by having a stairlift installed.
- Avoiding the stairs
If you find yourself avoiding making trips upstairs, preferring to go without something you’ve left there rather than have to go up and retrieve it because you know it is going to be a struggle, it is time to consider a stairlift. There’s no need for the stairs to present an obstacle as daunting as Mount Everest when you can ride up and down rather than walk.We’ve installed stairlifts for some clients who had been sleeping downstairs and not been able to access their upstairs bedroom and bathroom for months.
- Taking a toll
There are many cases where carers – whether they be paid or unpaid, or family members – report being put under undue pressure by having to physically assist their charges with navigating the stairs.Those who love you feel emotionally stressed too knowing that the stairs represent a dangerous obstacle for you. A stairlift makes life easier and more pleasant for all involved.
- Losing Your home
When your caregivers, family and friends become concerned about you being unable to cope with the stairs in your home you will probably be encouraged to move somewhere more practical.For most it is upsetting to leave a home they know and love. A stairlift can give you years of extra time to enjoy and easily access the upstairs and downstairs in your home.
- Risk of Depression
Physical limitations that make it difficult to climb the stairs obviously impact on your independence, and a loss of independence can in turn trigger depression.A stairlift not only helps your mobility, but also gives your mental health a boost.
- Recuperation after Surgery or Illness
It’s not only the elderly that need mobility aids at home.At any age you could have suffered from a debilitating illness, been in an accident or undergone surgery that has left you incapacitated for a time.
In all these cases a stairlift is an invaluable aid to your recovery, sparing you the stairs while you regain your strength.
There is always the option of renting a stairlift for a period of time.
If you find any of the above circumstances pertain to you, then why not take the next step and get in touch with us at Simply Stairlifts to find out how we can help you.
Consultations cost nothing. Just call 01666 822060, or click on the left tab to get us to call you, and open the door to a better quality of life.