Among the many wonderful inventions that help to ameliorate the problems of later life and help make it more comfortable, is the Stair Lift. It is a device that can be installed in practically any home with stairs and can help people regain mobility and retain their independence. We look at what a stair lift is, who can use it and what its uses and benefits are.

What is a stair lift?

It is also known as a chair lift or stair glider - it consists of a set of rails that are installed on an existing set of stairs, either indoors or outdoors. Mounted on the stairs is a motorized seat or a chair, which goes up and down those rails. The rails may also be secured to a wall in addition to the stairs. Stair lifts may be adjustable in terms of height, speed, soft start/stop, and types of switches. They may have features such as seat belts, arm rests, folding steps and so on.

Chair lifts can be customized according to the type of stair case one has. It can adjust to a curved staircase or stairs with landings and in cases even a spiral stair case. Some types of chair lifts can even be accommodated on very narrow staircases. People can also opt for wheelchair platform stair lifts or outdoor stair lifts.

Seats and rails can be such that they can be folded up and out of the way when not needed. Reconditioned stair lifts can be an economical and affordable option for many people.

Who needs a stair lift?

Anyone with restricted mobility can benefit from a chair lift. If you have aged parents, or there is someone in your family with a disability or degenerative disease, a stair lift can be a God send. It can help anyone with a progressive or inflammatory condition, especially if they have been advised to refrain from stair climbing to prevent their condition getting worse.

It can be useful for people with vision impairment (not just blindness but even depth perception problems). People who have suffered a stroke or had an accident that curtails their mobility might also need one.

People with specific conditions such as knee or hip problems that make sitting down difficult, can opt for "perch stair-lifts" which have a shortened seat and permit a person to go up and down in a semi standing position.

What are the benefits and advantages of a stair lift?

A stair lift is useful for anyone who has a house with more than one floor, where a lift or elevator either cannot be installed or may not be cost effective. It is beneficial when someone wants to continue living in their home or someone who cannot transition to a single floor dwelling. It can make life safer for people because they no longer have to navigate the stairs.

Older couples, families with aging parents, individuals with disabilities or degenerative conditions can all benefit from installing stair-lifts. Many lifts are equipped with larger, toggle type controls so that people with painful conditions can also operate them.

Author biography:

Sarika Periwal writes about health and home improvement. Stairlifts have proved to be a boon for people in the old age. Check the details here about where you can get them from and which one will work with your style of staircase.