Here’s What You Need to Know About Stairlifts

If neither you nor a loved one have ever had to make use of stairlifts, there’s a good chance that your mind is buzzing with questions when the time ever does come for this mobility assistance to enter your life. When you realize that a stairlift can seriously improve the conditions of somebody at home, you need to know the facts. Below, we’ll answer some of the most common asked questions about stairlifts. With this information, you should feel more confident as you shop for the right device.

Do Stairlifts Have Other Names?

While the most widely known term used to describe this device is indeed, “stairlift,” there are other names associated with it, too. You might hear a stairlift called a stair chair, stair lifter, chair glide, or stair glide. When you talk to a medical supply distributor, they will know what you mean regardless of what name for stairlift you use.

How is a Stairlift Installed?

Stairlifts are installed directly onto the staircase, not the wall that runs beside it. The lift is attached to the railing and secured with mounts every few steps.

How Do Stairlifts Get Power?

Generally, stairlifts are plugged in at the top or the bottom of the stairs. The location of the required outlet will depend on the model, so make sure to keep your stairlift plugged in as per the manufacturer’s specifications.

What if There is a Power Outage?

Fortunately, modern stairlifts all come equipped with a backup battery, so sudden power outages don’t have to leave you stranded on your staircase. This backup battery charges when the stairlift is plugged into the wall. Even if the outage is extended, you can feel confident in using your stairlift on backup power. Most stairlifts will continue operating for as many as 50 round-trip uses before they must be plugged back into a power source.

Do Stairlifts Work for All Staircases?

If you have a curved staircase, or a staircase of any configuration other than simply straight, you might worry about whether a stairlift will work. Fortunately, there are stairlifts designed specifically for more complicated staircases. The downside of this is that these devices will cost more to purchase/rent and install.

If you’ve got an outdoor staircase that you need to access, there are even weather-proof options available on the market!

Can You Rent a Stairlift?

Yes! Many medical supply companies allow for stairlifts to be rented, though usually for no fewer than four to six months. This is because the installation of a stairlift is laborious and expensive. If you know that you will only need the stairlift for a short time, renting your device is certainly an option.