What You Should Know about Chair Lifts?

by Kevin Smith Author

Life for an older person with mobility issues can be daunting enough without having to navigate stairs daily. The need for help several times a day to go up and down a staircase can have an effect on how a senior citizen can continue to live at home independently.

A chair lift is an effective solution for seniors who have trouble with stairs. They are designed to safely carry a person up and down a staircase in a seated position, giving the person easy access to both levels of their home.

You may be considering investing in a chair lift to make life easier for a senior citizen in your home, or you may be thinking of having one installed for yourself. Here are some suggestions for speaking with a company that specializes in chair lifts for seniors in Chicago, IL.

The Cost

The design of your staircase can determine the type of chair lift you want installed and the price involved. It typically costs more for a chair lift that goes around corners, bends toward another direction, or curves at a landing. You can expect to spend two to three times more on this type of chair lift. If safety and convenience in your home are factors, this is worth the investment.

Power Choice

You will want to discuss with the chair lift installer if the chair is battery powered, or connected to the home electrical system. Battery powered chair lifts are usually quieter and run smoother than electric chairs. There is also less of a risk of the chair stopping and stranding the occupant if there’s a power failure. So, ask if you have a choice of power source.

Safe Ride

The chairlift installer can reassure you of its safety. Chair lifts are equipped with design features like footplate and motor sensors that can stop the chair if it detects an obstruction. Most seats are equipped with belts that keep the person secured while the chair is in motion. Swivel seats allow the person to turn away from the stairs at the top and exit safely.

Home Investment

A chair lift is an investment that can cost several thousand dollars to install. You will want to be certain that this is equipment that you want in your home. A chair lift is necessary if you or a parent or relative cannot make it up and down the stairs on their own, and want to be less of a burden to others. A company that specializes in chair lifts for seniors in Chicago, IL, can answer your questions and determine if a chairlift at home is the right option for you.