Stairlifts - When Getting Around The House Becomes Difficult
Mobility aids can give the elderly and disabled a new lease of life; letting them stay independent in their own home for longer. When we get a bit older, all of us should consider how the use of mobility aids could make our lives easier. Recently elderly people have been targeted by companies using often aggressive sales tactics in order to push faulty mobility aids, which is a real shame.
Stairlifts are quick to install, easy to operate and can be fitted to almost any staircase. While it is easier to fit a stair lift to a straight stairwell, they can also be fitted to curved stairs, although it does tend to be slightly more expensive. They are usually battery operated, with a battery which is charged at either end of the staircase, meaning that you will never become stranded halfway up the staircase.
Once the staircase is fitted you are free to enjoy the entirety of your home again. Technological solutions like stair lifts and other types of mobility aids like mobility scooters can really enhance an elderly or disabled person’s life - permitting them freedom, independence, and the chance to stay in their own home for longer.
Many suppliers offer second-hand, reconditioned stairlifts which can be a great solution, especially if you have a small budget. The price of a curved stairlift will vary depending on the amount and acuteness of the curves, as well as the length and height of the staircase. An expert needs to see the staircase before one can be fitted, as it is paramount that the stairlift is fitted safely by an expert.
Councils have been giving warnings about the bad practises of some companies selling mobility scooters, stair lifts and orthopaedic furniture to the elderly and disabled. People have complained about high pressure sales tactics, salesman spending long periods in their homes, and even claiming to be working for Social Services, the Department for Work and Pensions and the National Health Service.
These mobility aids are often sold to people within their own home, where they can be particularly vulnerable to pressurised selling tactics. Remember that most complaints are about high pressure sales techniques, unsuitable or faulty products, and overcharging.
When looking to purchase a stairlift, ensure that the installation is included, and shop around to get the best prices. Another key consideration is the warranty, as the last thing you want is for your stairlift to break and not know who to turn to to fix it.
Stannah are a British family-owned company dedicated to quality, safety and service. Building relationships of trust with customers, we don’t cold call, don’t install a stairlift where it isn’t practical and never, ever compromise on safety.