What are the benefits of stairlifts?

As people age and health becomes more fragile, problems can arise which can reduce levels of independence. Fortunately, there are a host of mobility aids that can be of help, one of which is a stairlift.

Why get a stairlift? Installing a stairlift can be life changing so it’s worth carefully considering if this mobility solution is right for you. To help you determine if a stairlift could make a difference in your life, here are just a few benefits of getting a stairlift installed in your home.

Safety and risk reduction

Tackling the stairs can sometimes be difficult for those with limited mobility. If balance is already a concern, there is a chance a person could fall while climbing a staircase and suffer broken bones or another serious injury.

Although moving into a bungalow is one option, the installation of a stairlift could help to offer a better quality of life with the least amount of stress.

Whether a straight stairlift or curved stairlift is chosen, users can enjoy renewed movement around the home in complete safety and comfort – offering peace of mind to both the user and their family..

Tip: There are many types of stairlifts to consider, and it is also important to think about whether or not the user could benefit from a swivel seat. These seats are designed to swing away from the staircase in either direction to increase safety and comfort while embarking and disembarking the stairlift.

READ ALSO: How to make a home safe for older people with limited mobility

Enhanced mobility and independence

The enhanced mobility and independence that a stairlift brings is one of its primary benefits. Independence is easily lost when a person’s mobility is diminished as it can be hard or impossible to navigate the home safely.

A stairlift allows individuals with limited mobility to move freely between floors, maintaining independence in their own home without relying on others for assistance. A stairlift can also mean that you stay in the home you love for longer without having to consider moving to a single level accommodation or a care home.

Improved mental and emotional wellbeing

Limited mobility can have a significant impact on mental health, due to all-too-common feelings of isolation. Being confined to a single floor of your home and not able to enjoy the house as you once did can take its toll emotionally.

However, a stairlift can allow a person to access all areas of their home once more, improving mental and emotional well-being and reducing feelings of confinement and frustration.

READ ALSO: Future proofing your home

Quick and easy installation

You might think that having a stairlift installed would be a long and arduous process. However, installation takes no time at all thanks to expert technicians who can get you set up in just a matter of hours.

After an initial home assessment to determine the type of stairlift you need, you can enjoy the benefits a stairlift brings in no time at all. Furthermore, stairlifts aren’t huge eyesores, they are stylish and modern pieces of technology that look good on your staircase.

Cost-effective mobility solution

Installing a stairlift can also be a cost-effective solution to limited mobility. Compared to the costs of home modifications, relocating to a new home, or moving to an assisted living facility, stairlifts can be a far more affordable solution for maintaining mobility.

The cost of a stairlift depends on the type of model you need and how many flights of stairs your home has, but a free home assessment can get you a quote in no time at all.

Stairlifts are also very affordable to run, costing about the same as everyday appliances such as kettles and microwaves. You shouldn’t put a price on your wellbeing, but with a stairlift you don’t need to worry about breaking the bank.

Comfort and convenience

A stairlift can improve a person’s level of comfort and convenience, especially for those with various health conditions. For example, those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can greatly benefit from the use of a stairlift.

These conditions can cause pain and inflammation in the joints, making it difficult to stay mobile. A stairlift can help those with arthritis to continue accessing all rooms of their home while reducing the discomfort they feel when climbing the stairs.

If you find sitting difficult, you could consider investing in a perch stairlift. This allows the user to remain in a standing position while still being supported as the stairlift climbs the stairs.

Stairlifts can also make things easier for the user’s family, friends, or carer, as they won’t have to physically support their loved one as they climb the stairs.

READ ALSO: Signs you are ready for a stairlift

The benefits of having a stairlift installed in your home

• Safety and risk reduction
• Enhanced mobility and independence
• Improved mental and emotional wellbeing
• Quick and easy installation
• Cost-effective mobility solution
• Comfort and convenience

As you can see, installing a stairlift can help to offer a significantly better quality of life for many. If you think you would benefit from a stairlift, check out our stairlift advice guides, make an enquiry, or request a brochure.

This article was brought to you by Handicare, working with Age Co, who provide a range of home mobility products such as stairlifts, homelifts and bathing solutions. For more information about how they can help make your home more accessible, please get in touch.