1100 folding foot rest 2

The Pros and Cons of Stair Chair Lifts

Stair chair lifts, as we all know, will eventually be a staple in the household especially if it is a home with elderly and/or people having difficulties with mobility. There’s no denying that current stairlift technology has given seniors and other people with mobility issues more options than earlier generations. And, for the most part, the advantages of having a stairlift in one’s house outweigh the disadvantages.

If navigating the stairs at home becomes too difficult, people often have two alternatives for dealing with the situation. The first is to stay at home (with adjustments), while the second is to relocate to a senior living or assisted living facility. Both are viable alternatives, but many people choose to stay in their homes since it eliminates the stress of having to relocate and allows them to stay in a location where they have so many strong emotional attachments. A house is a safe haven since it is where most individuals create lasting memories with their family and friends, whether it be from holiday parties or social events.

However, in order to make the best selection possible, a sensible consumer should constantly consider both the benefits and drawbacks of each purchase. Here are some things to think about:

THE PROS

  1. It prevents accidents – stairs are accident-prone especially for the eldery or people who have mobility issues. 
  2. It doesn’t take a major renovation to install – the only change required to suit the great majority of stairlifts is a set of holes in some of the steps on the staircase to attach the stairlift’s track/rail to. 
  3.  Quick turnaround time – since the installation does not need too much changes on your staircase, the stair chair lift may be completed and ready to use within the day.
  4. Reasonably Priced – as compared to residential lifts, stair chairs are more affordable. We’re not saying that they are cheap, but every cent will be worth it especially for your loved ones who have trouble with mobility.
  5. Staircase is still usable – most modern staircases have been constructed wide enough to accommodate a stair chair lift while still allowing access for people who can move fine.

 

THE CONS

  • Limited design options – there are only a few styles of stair chairs but manufacturers have already made sure that the designs are both comfortable and safe.
  •  Not usually a safe solution for wheelchairs – stair chairs may not be the best way to transport a wheelchair up and down the stairs because of its limitations on weight and space.
  • One level transport – unless your house has multiple stair chairs per level of the house, it is only possible for an individual to be brought up and down one flight of stairs. For multi-leveled houses, if it is something you can afford, residential lifts would be the best choice.

The pros really do outweigh the cons for this one. Having a stair chair would provide accessibility for everyone in the house, and will ensure the safety of the residents. If you’re looking to have yours installed, submit your request to Coastal Lifts and they will provide you with a free quote!