Everything You Need to Know About Stairlifts

The team at DLSL go through a few key points that you’ll want to know when you’re deciding on whether or not a stairlift will be beneficial for you. If you would like to speak to an advisor, give our team a call on the number on our homepage – Stairlifts London

What is a stairlift?

A stairlift is a piece of equipment used by people with limited mobility that allows them to navigate the stairs of their home with ease. Stairlifts are able to be equipped with either a chair or platform depending on the requirements of the user since people’s needs will differ from case to case.

How do you obtain a stairlift?

Stairlifts aren’t only handed out by the council since any homeowner in need of a stairlift is able to purchase one. Stairlifts granted or part-funded by stairlifts are a common way of acquiring a stairlift however the assessment process can be lengthy & vigorous. For those that already know their own mobility & require the assistance of a stairlift, providers like DLSL are out on the market ready to provide the services you need.

Who can use a stairlift?

Stairlifts are designed to aid those that are suffering from limited mobility. Whether it’s through an injury or underlying health issues, those that suffer from reduce mobility are the most likely to get the most benefit from a stairlift.

How do stairlifts work?

Most models of stairlifts make use of a motor that drives the chair/platform along the rail which is fitted adjacent to the staircase. This rail/track is fitted into the tread of your stairs securing the entire piece securely. There is a wide range of stairlifts on the market, from straight stairlifts to curved but they all work in the same way. The electronics required for the movement of the stairlift are connected to the mains whilst the motor in the chair is battery powered, often charging both at the top & the bottom of the stairs ensuring you’ll never be stuck halfway up the stairs if the power was to suddenly cut.

Are stairlifts safe?

Stairlifts can be a difficult thing to trust if you aren’t fully aware of the safety measures that are taken by stairlift manufacturers. Rest assured, stairlifts are very safe and they have countermeasures to ensure that in a worst-case scenario, the user isn’t hurt.

Stairlifts are fitted with safety belts to ensure the user is safely seated throughout the trip. This is great for those that suffer from poor balance and could potentially fall out of the chair.

Most stairlifts are fitted with weight & proximity sensors to detect whether or not someone is sat on the chair or if someone falls off to ensure the quick & sudden halt to ensure the stairlift can’t injure the user whilst it’s moving. If the user does fall out of the stairlift, then the stairlift has to stop. These sensors will also detect potential obstructions that can get in the way of the lift, avoiding any potential injuries or damage to the stairlift.

There are also models that are fitted with moving footplates so that the user is able to avoid the gap from the stairlift onto the top step.

Will a stairlift benefit me?

This is a difficult one to answer directly because everyone’s scenario is going to differ. For the most part, if you are somebody who suffers from reduced mobility, a stairlift will most likely benefit you. If you know or care for somebody who can’t navigate the stairs in their home, then a stairlift will indefinitely help them as well as improve their quality of life. Stairlifts are aids designed for those that aren’t able to use the stairs by themselves anymore, whether or not it’s temporary or not. Having the freedom to navigate the stairs in your own home will indefinitely benefit you or your loved one as it’s difficult being unable to move around without the assistance of someone else. Stairlifts are great for instilling independence in those that are trying to retain as much of it as they can.

Speak to one of our advisors today & see if we can help you or your loved ones retain their independence with a stairlift. Visit our website today – Stairlifts London