As we age and become less mobile, a task as ordinary as climbing the stairs can suddenly become daunting. For many people, having a stairlift is crucial, as it is the only way they can safely access the second floor of their home.
Stairlifts and other home adaptions, such as handrails and ramps, allow elderly people and people with poor mobility to continue living in the home they love and cherish. If you or your loved one is struggling to climb the stairs, it may be time to install a stairlift.
Buying A Stairlift
When it comes to purchasing a stairlift, you usually have two options: buying a new stairlift or buying a reconditioned stairlift. If you choose the stairlift provider wisely, a reconditioned stairlift can be just as fantastic as a brand new stairlift – and they are cheaper!
Having a stairlift serviced regularly by a trained engineer can help prolong the life of your stairlift and prevent repairs. Plus, most stairlift providers offer warranty and are always on hand to answer any queries or carry out repairs.
Is Buying A Stairlift Right For Me?
If you or your loved one has suffered an injury, has an ongoing illness or has another type of disability that will permanently reduce their mobility, buying a stairlift is usually the best option. There are straight stairlifts, curved stairlifts and reconditioned stairlifts available.
Most stairlifts, whether you rent or buy, will feature a comfortable swivel seat with an adjustable seatbelt, a folding footrest, safety sensors, two remotes and an internal backup battery.
Having a stairlift installed provides peace of mind that you will be able to easily and safely get up and down the stairs in your home.
The only alternative to a stairlift would be to move into a different property. However, this isn’t always possible or feasible. Buying a stairlift is the most cost-effective option, especially if you buy a quality stairlift from a reputable stairlift provider.
Renting A Stairlift
Many stairlift companies or home adaptions companies provide rental stairlifts. Usually, an engineer will visit your home and assess your stairs. Then they will return to install the best stairlift for you and your home.
With most companies, there is no time limit on stairlift rental. You simply pay for the stairlift until you no longer need it.
Alongside an installation fee, you usually pay for stairlift rental on a monthly basis, or pay a lump sum for the first 6 months and then a small fee each month until the stairlift is removed.
Is Stairlift Rental Right For Me?
If you require a stairlift for the foreseeable future, purchasing one may be the best option. However, if you only need a stairlift for a short amount of time, renting one may be better. There are several common reasons why people choose to rent rather than buy:
- Recovering from an injury – If you have suffered a fall or been in an accident, you may struggle to walk or climb stairs during your recovery period. A rental stairlift enables you to easily get up and down the stairs whilst you are recovering.
- Temporarily living with relatives. Is your elderly relative living with your temporarily? Perhaps they are recovering from an injury or illness. Or perhaps they are staying with you whilst you organise permanent accommodation. Whatever the reason, having a rental stairlift can make life easier for you and your elderly loved one. And once they have settled into their own home, you can have the stairlift removed.
- Planning on moving home in the near future – Many people choose to downsize as they age. They often choose a home that is more suitable and practical for them, with fewer rooms and the opportunity to make adaptions if required. However, finding the perfect home can be a long process. In the meantime, you can improve your current home by adding a rental stairlift along with other adaptions.
Whether you choose to rent or buy, it is always important to choose an expert stairlift provider that has various options available is willing to help you choose the best stairlift for your home and your preferences.
