Stair Lifts Uses May 30, 2008
Posted by twitwoot in stair lifts.Tags: stair chairs, stair lift, stair lifts, stairlift, stairlifts
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Stair lifts are medical devices that are installed on stair cases. They make it easier for individuals who are mobility challenged to use the stairs. A metal track is attached to the stair case, or in some cases the wall, and a chair or small platform is sent up and down the track. They provide a safe way for individuals to use the stairs independently and without assistance.
The most common type of stair lift is the seated stair lift. A seated stair lift features a swivel chair and most have lift-able armrests. Some units actually feature a small platform instead of a chair. These standing stair lifts are often called perch lifts because of the way the person perches on the platform. They are primarily used by individuals with joint problems that prevent them from easily bending their knees. Often perch lifts also have a small padded rest that is about waist high and can be leaned against for added support.
Most stair lifts are designed for indoor use, but there are several outdoor stair lifts available. An outdoor stair lift has been thoroughly insulated against the elements and can withstand rain, snow, and ice.
Stair lifts are very safe to use and have many special features to ensure that you have a safe experience while using the device. This includes things like seat belts and built in footrests sensors that can detect obstructions that may hinder the movement of the stair lift.
Stair lifts are used to promote safety and independence in many homes. They are also used in businesses as a means of promoting accessibility.
Stair Lifts: Buying and Using May 23, 2008
Posted by twitwoot in stair lifts.Tags: stair chair, stair chairs, stair lift, stair lifts, stairchairs, stairlift, stairlifts
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Climbing the stairs can become difficult with age or for those who have health related problems. A fall down the stairs can easily result in broken bones, or worse, and as we get older the risk of falling down the stairs increase. Stair lifts are a very popular type of mobility aid that can help to alleviate this risk.
Stair lifts are devices that typically attach to the stairs and send a chair or small platform up and down the stairs. Most people opt for the chair version, which is why they are frequently called stair chairs. Those that have difficulty bending their knees though may prefer a perch lift, which instead of a chair uses a perch or small platform.
One of the best places to find stair lifts is online. You frequently can find some great deals on stair lifts online and you can have them shipped to your door and installed without ever having to leave the home. It is important to first make careful measurements of your stairs though. Check out this Stair Lift Measuring Guide for information and diagrams that explain the measuring process.
You might want to consider purchasing a used stair lift, because you can save money. Always ensure, however, that you are purchasing one from a dealer instead of a private individual. Dealers will completely refurbish the device and test it. This means that even though it is used, it has been restored to its originally factory condition. You can not get this same guarantee when you purchase from a private individual.
Conquering the StairCase May 16, 2008
Posted by twitwoot in stair lifts.Tags: stair chairs, stair lift, stair lifts, stairlift, stairlifts
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There are few obstacles in the home that present as much of a challenge and are as dangerous to those that are mobility challenged as the stairs do. Broken hips and shoulders are some of the most common results of a fall down the stairs. The majority of falls down the stairs that result in hospitalization occur in individuals who are over 60 years of age. There are several mobility devices that can be used to combat this, but the stair lift is one of the easiest and least expensive methods.
A stair lift is a special mobility aid that carries an individual up and down the stairs along a track secured to the stairs or wall. First developed in the 1920’s, stair lifts are now commonly found in many homes and businesses. They can inexpensively be installed on most straight staircases. Stair lifts for curved stairs can be very pricey though.
Stair lifts can support a lot of weight, but it is important to not overload it. Most are rated at around 350 pounds, but there are models that can support much more weight than that. A quality stair lift will use only the best and most durable materials. Super strong reinforced aircraft cable is used in many stair lifts, as is reinforced steel.
When using a stair lift it is important to follow some simple safety precautions. Never attempt to stand or move while the stair lift is in motion or is not at the top of the stairs. Always wear your seatbelt, and if the unit does not have one, ask the dealer if they can outfit it with one. It is also very important to ensure that children do not play on the stair lift. It can be a great tool to restore mobility, but if used as a toy it could be very dangerous.
A stair lift will provide many years of service and dependability if used and maintained properly. Make sure you read the manual before you begin using it. The manual is packed with great instructions that will guide you through the proper ways of maintaining your unit.
Weather Proof Stair Lifts May 9, 2008
Posted by twitwoot in stair lifts.Tags: outdoor, outdoor stair lifts, stair chairs, stair lift, stair lifts, stairlift, stairlifts
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Stair lifts are used to carry people up and down the stairs. A set of tracks is attached to the stairs, and using a remote or set of call buttons, similar to an elevator, a chair is sent up and down the stairs. Stair lifts are more frequently found indoors, but there are several models that are made to be completely weather proof. These weather proof units can be used outdoors for your front steps.
An outdoor stair lift must be designed in a manner that is resistant to the elements. This means all areas must be tightly sealed against moisture, the unit must be rust proof, and it will have to use fabric that is also weather proof. Any steel is powder coated, which fights rusts, and special plastic is used that is not affected by the harsh rays of the sun. Metals like aluminum are also used as often as possible, because it is both strong and great for outdoors.
The installation of an outdoor stair lift is slightly more complicated than the installation of an inside stair lift, but it is still fairly straight forward. Most outdoor steps are made of concrete or brick, so special fasteners will need to be used. These are provided by the dealer and are easily installed.
In some cases an outdoor stair lift is not the best choice for installation on the front steps. The stair lift must attach to the steps, which will result in a loss of space. It is common to have a narrow set of front steps, so in these cases the stair lift may take up too much room. Some people instead opt for a vertical platform lift for their front steps. A vertical platform lift is a mini elevator, which raises a platform vertically up and down the distance of the steps. One of the advantages of a vertical platform lift is that it can be used to carry an individual in a wheelchair or mobility scooter up the stairs, where a stair lift can only be used to carry a seated person. The other advantage of a vertical platform lift as opposed to a stair lift is that it generally does not take up any stair space. They are installed next to the landing and raise the individual so that they can exit onto the landing.
Safety Tips for Stair Lifts May 2, 2008
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A stair lift can greatly increase your mobility and your independence, but it is very important to be safety conscious while you use it. They are great machines, but they also can be dangerous if used improperly. Here are some tips that can ensure that you experience the safest possible experience with your stair lift:
