An introduction to stair lifts
An introduction to stair lifts
For many elderly and/or disabled people, the stairs that once were such a breeze may may suddenly become a major obstacle in daily life. As a result, these people spend most of their times confined to the lower levels of their homes, with the upstairs practically out of bounds. According to research performed by the University of California Disability Statistics Center, more than 60% of the 1.6 million wheelchairs users in America face day-to-day difficulties in getting around their homes. Often times, the families and friends of these people will simply advise solving the problem by moving to a bungalow or nursery. However, the logistical and emotional impacts of moving one’s residence are often grossly underestimated. To those affected, having to leave one’s trusted home will often feel like giving up, which could in the longer term lead to depression and a general sense of failure. Luckily, there is an answer: a stair lift.A stair lift, also commonly referred to as a chair lift is made up of a high-quality wall-mounted rail with a comfortable, mechanic chair attached. This chair slides up and down the rail through a rack-and-pinion system, transporting the seated individual up and down the stairs with very little effort. The device was originally invented by C.C. Crispen during the polio epidemic of the 1920s, to help his wheel chaired friend tackle the stairs of his home. In recent years, the machine then known as the inclin-ator’ has underwent rapid development. Stair lifts come in a wide variety of models, able to tackle both straight stairways and stairs with a curvature. Additionally, there are models for use outside and models which feature a large platform on which one can securely park a wheelchair.If lack of mobility starts limiting your life to the lower levels of your house, you may want to think about having a stair lift installed. In these days, stair lifts no longer have to be those boring industrial-like machines that contrast so strongly with your home interior. You will find that there is an immense variety of seat models and coverings available, to make sure your stair lift fits perfectly into the warm familiarity of your home. As for power, stair lifts come in both AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) varieties. AC-powered lifts are connected directly to the mains power supply, while DC-powered lifts use a special kind of rechargeable battery pack. DC-powered lifts are usually more expensive, but they have several important advantages. The most important advantage of a DC-powered lift over an AC-powered one is safety; in case of a power blackout, a DC-powered lift will continue to work. You should be aware of the fact that short-circuiting is a very common cause of fire; in such a case, an AC-powered lift can not transport you down to safety. When purchasing a stair lift, don’t forget to take the following factors into consideration:* Glide: the glide-factor affects the overall smoothness of the journey.* Power supply: a DC powered lift offers better safety and a generally smoother ride.* Control: for those suffering from arthritis, a joystick-based control is generally regarded as more convenient than a button-based control.* A swivel chair will allow you to exit and enter the lift without bending in awkward directions.Considering the cost, a stair lift is not likely to be be light on your wallet. However, because of recent price drops, prices have fallen into a range that is affordable to most people with a normal income. In the end, the cost will mostly be determined by your personal needs and the design of your staircase. Curved stair lifts have to be custom-made and may therefore be significantly more expensive in both manufacture and installation. For those that can not pay up front, stair lifts are also available for rent. You can also consult your retailer for special financing plans. Always consult a local retailer and have your home evaluated before investing in a stair lift.
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