Stair Lifts Your Key to Freedom

Stair lifts have been around for close to 90 years. First developed in the 1920’s they have evolved into a very reliable and valuable product. For many thousands of Americans stair lifts provide an essential link between the different levels of their houses. It used to be that when you started to get older the first thing you did was sell your home and move into a single story home. This is no longer necessary because stair lifts can be safely installed in hours at a very affordable rate.

In almost all instances it is very easy to install stair lifts in your home. The exception to this is when your stairs are incredibly narrow or curved. It can be very hard to watch someone you love struggle to get up or down the stairs. Even worse is the worry you can feel when you think about them doing it by their self when there is no one there to give them a helping hand.

Stair lifts can allow the user to easily go up and down the stairs at the push of a button. While the installation is usually very simple and straightforward it is necessary to get an accurate measurement of your stairs. This can be done in several easy steps:

- Using a measuring tape, measure the distance from the top landing to the floor at the bottom of the steps. Measure in a straight line and make sure the measuring tape is tight and does not sag between steps.
- Next, using the same method as before, measure the distance from the landing to the bottom step.
- You will now need to measure the width of the stairs. Measure long ways across the bottom step.
- Next measure the distance from the bottom step to the nearest obstruction, such as a wall or door.
- You are almost done now. All you need to do is measure the height and length of one of your steps.

After you have an accurate measurement of your steps the installation will be simple and straight forward. Stair lifts can restore your confidence and make you feel safe again when you traverse the stairs in your home. Do not hesitate another moment, purchase a stair lift and make a decision that could very well save your life.Source: www.articlefeeder.com

Stair Lift Safety

A stair lift is a device that helps those with disabilities or people who have trouble walking go up and down the stairs. These units work by sending a chair or small platform up and down the stairs along an attached track. Stair lifts are generally very safe, but there are some things you should keep in mind when using one of these devices.

Stair lifts are very helpful pieces of medical equipment; unfortunately to children they may look like toys. It is very important that you do not let young children use these devices unsupervised or in any manner other than the way that is recommended by the manufacturer. If your stair lift is in a public area, or if you will not always be there to supervise your unit you may consider purchasing a stair lift that can be locked with a key. This is the best way to guarantee that your stair lift will only be used in the way it was intended.

Make sure that the stair lift you purchase has a seat belt or other restraining device. This is a very important safety feature and, just like the seat belt in your car, it works better if you use it. Stair lifts are designed in such a way that they move slowly and very smoothly, but it is always better to air on the side of caution. By using the seat belt you guarantee that you will not fall or slip out of the chair.

Another safety consideration is the weight capacity of the unit. It is always important to honestly access your weight, or that of a loved one, and consider any expected growth when you purchase a stair lift. If you are just at the maximum weight limit, it is almost always better to get the next size up. This ensures that you will always be able to use the unit and that you can use your stair lift to carry your belongings up and down the stairs without worrying about exceeding the weight requirements.

By following these simple guidelines you will get many years of trustworthy and safe service.

Source: http://www.articler.com/82370/Stair-Lift-Safety.html

Accessibility Options: Stair Lifts, Platform Lifts, and Elevators

Traveling from point to another is as easy as a footstep. The elderly, disabled, and even people doing normal chores can take advantage of the benefits of various accessibility options out in the market. It guarantees convenience, safety, and improved traveling experience either indoor or outdoor. Each has its own good points and drawbacks. Some can cater to your most basic accessibility needs while others can offer more than the usual.

Stair Lifts

When going up and down the stairs start to be a difficult and uncomfortable task, stair lifts are the best option. Electric or battery-powered stair lifts are generally cheaper to install compared to other accessibility options. It requires minimal or no additional space at all. The user can even control the speed of the lift with a press of a button. No more ankle, knee or hip ache to worry when traveling the stairs. Various models offer elegant designs, colors, fabrics that can fit straight, spiral or curved stairs. Also, when not in use stair lifts can be folded up easily and efficiently, thus people can still freely travel the stairs. Stair lifts are best recommended for the elderly and disabled who find it hard or almost impossible to take steps on stairs.

Platform Lifts

People on the wheelchair can have the best of both worlds using a platform lift. It can be mounted straight to a wall or tower-mounted to the staircase. It offers a smooth, stylish and quiet ride. Some have a durable powder coating specifically designed for outdoor purposes. They are the flexible and efficient answer to multi-level structures either inside or outside the home. It can be the best substitute for an elevator providing the same functionality at a very lower cost. When you are not using the lift, the rail system may be used as a suitable handrail. If stairs become a barrier, the best solution is a platform lift.

Elevators

Considered to add significant value to your home, elevators are the most flexible accessibility option that can cater to every individual’s needs. It adds value and at the same time provides convenience to your lifestyle. It requires less space compared to stair lifts and more stylish than platform lifts. Whether you are fixing the laundry, moving furniture, or unloading groceries, elevators are convenient and faster way to do it. Some elevators come with safety features such as interlocks, cable safety devices, alarm, phone, emergency light and more. Its maintenance requirements are also minimal comparable with your furnace or air conditioner. Obviously, with all these features you will have to allot a bigger budget.

There are no more reasons for you or a family member to experience difficulty and pain in moving between floors of your own home. No more chance to miss a reunion or other family celebration just because you can’t take the stairs or being locked up in one portion of the house for the reason that moving freely and independently is just impossible. Technology has made is here to improve the lives of mankind in so many ways.

Source: http://www.approvedarticles.com/Article/Accessibility-Options–Stair-Lifts–Platform-Lifts–and-Elevators/44322