Choosing a Stairlift: What You Need to Know

There are many misconceptions about stairlifts. For example, many people assume that stairlifts are only used by those who have virtually no mobility at all. The reality is that many patients use a stairlift, often temporarily.

Before committing to the purchase of such an expensive and essential device, you must make sure that you are spending money on the right thing. If you do need a stairlift to help you or your parents live their best life. Here’s what you need to consider to make the correct decision.

Consider the Individual Needs of the User

As with any piece of medical equipment, you must consider the individual patient and their needs when choosing a stairlift. Despite using a stairlift, many patients are still relatively mobile and independent. These patients have a much broader selection of stairlifts to choose from. On the other hand, those with severely limited mobility are restricted to a relatively narrow section of the market.

Consider Your Staircase

When you are choosing a stairlift, you need to consider the staircase you are attaching it to as much as the person who will be rising on it. A stairlift system that isn’t suitable for the stairs in your home is not going to do you much good. Before you commit yourself to a particular model, make sure that you have measured up your staircase and found a stairlift that will be able to traverse it without issues.

For example, if you have a particularly narrow staircase in your home, you will need to choose a stairlift that can easily negotiate them. The Flow 2 Stairlift is one of the best stairlifts on the market for narrow staircases. It is just one of the high-quality staircases available through Kudos Stairlifts. They also supply a range of other stairlifts for staircases of different shapes and designs.

Buy or Rent a Stairlift to Try it Out

If at all possible, renting or trying out a stairlift before committing to purchase is a good idea. Trying before you commit to buying will give you the opportunity to ensure that the model you are considering is the best one for your needs or those of the patient.

Many patients will only need their stairlifts on a temporary basis. If this is the case, renting a stairlift usually makes more sense than buying one. Of course, if the patient requires the stairlift for a prolonged period, buying it is the only way to go.

Check the Warranty Arrangements

New stairlifts usually come with generous warranties. Any modern stairlift purchased today should be able to withstand the test of time. If not, the warranty should keep you covered and ensure you aren’t out of pocket should your stairlift breakdown.

A stairlift is a major purchase. Not only are they expensive devices, but they are also essential for the people that use them. A subpar stairlift can represent a significant safety hazard, and prolong the recovery time of patients who depend upon them. This isn’t the kind of purchasing decision that you want to rush into. Taking your time and ensuring you choose the model best suited to your needs is absolutely essential. Take the time to check out these tips for adapting a home for later life for more ideas to keep you and your family safe.