Measurement & Installation Guide

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When purchasing a stairlift, the second most important thing to do in addition to researching the different options and safety features available is to make sure that it is properly fitted and installed. A poorly fitting seat or product that is not installed correctly will not only make it less comfortable to use, but also put you and the members of your household at risk for safety concerns and hazards.

When measuring, there are many different things to consider. Most dealerships and authorized contractors who provide in homw installation will do the measuring for you to make sure that the product is properly fitted and the right match for the stair case you are planning on using the equipment for.

When Measuring you will want to make sure that you take into different considerations. You will need to know how many stairs you have, the length of each step, the overall pitch of the stair case, the distance from the top to bottom, and the width of the staircase. All of these measurements will help you make a choice on what type of lift will best fit your individual needs and preferences. You will also want to make sure that you take into consideration which side of the stairs you will be placing the rail and chair, since it may make a difference. Another thing to consider is that some lifts are mounted to the actual steps themselves, while others are mounted to the wall instead. a

Installation is best left to a professional or other experienced and licensed installer for your own safety. If you or someone you know however is experienced and comfortable with installing stair lifts on your own, then it can be done and it may be able to save you the added expense of hiring someone to do it for you. Some rail systems cannot be sold without professional installation, whereas others are designed with consumers to install themselves in mind. For example, Ameriglide lifts come with detailed instructions and a step by step video to help explain the installation process and the materials needed. A video is an excellent way to ensure that you are following the directions properly.

Each individual product will have its own product specifications and factory installation recommendations. If you do decide to install the lift on your own, be sure to follow those instructions exactly to ensure a proper installation and maximum safety.

Adapting Your Home for Better Accessibility

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Adapting your home for better accessibility and independence may seem like a daunting or overwhelming task at first but it is usually well worth it for many individuals who have physical disabilities or problems with health and pain management. There are many different programs available that can help you make living at home a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Many find that by making a few simple modifications and adjustments it can be a much better alternative to an assisted care facility or hiring a personal assistant. It can also provide relief for family members and friends who can feel confident that their loved one is able to care for him or herself and live life to the fullest.

If you are newly dealing with a physical disability due to illness or accident, or are considering different ways to improve your home, here are some of the things that may be able to make the difference in the level of comfort and independence you can have.

Stairlifts: As a site all about Stair Lifts, we can’t help but list this one first. A stair lift can be a great way to make it so someone who has difficulty in walking up and down stairs can safely and comfortably move from one level of the home to the next.

Walk-in Tubs and Bath Lifts: Showering and bathing can often be a challenge and a concern for those with medical conditions. You can regain a sense of independence and your privacy with the use of walk-in bath tubs and showers as well as bath lifts.

Dumbwaiters: A dumbwaiter can be a great way to move items from one level of the home to the next without worrying if it is too heavy or difficult to lift.

Elevators: While an in home elevator is not an absolute necessity, it can be helpful for some, especially in homes that have more than two stories.

Ramps and Lifts: Outdoor stairs or decking can be a challenge for many. Installing ramps or lifts can help make it easier to get around the property without concern of falling or tripping down steps. Having ramps installed can also help if you have been considering using mobility scooters in addition to other medical equipment.

Doorways: Widening doorways or installing easy to open doors can also make a huge difference in mobility in the home. A wider door allows for more movement and flexibility, especially for those in wheel chairs. Doors that have easy to open handles can be of a huge help for those who have arthritis or other conditions that make turning the standard doorknob a painful experience.

Safety Rails: Safety rails can add extra help and support for moving around the home. They can be installed in bath rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and other places for the person to hold onto when walking or moving from a sitting to standing position.

Flooring: There are many different flooring materials, from hardwood floors to carpeting to tile. Different needs may deem certain types of flooring more suitable. For example, someone in a wheel chair may prefer a hard surface floor for better mobility for their chair. Someone who has knee or joint pain but is not reliant on a wheel chair may prefer the soft padding of carpet.

Every person and individual situation will vary, however having an idea of different things you can do to adapt your home for better accessibility can make a huge difference in the amount of freedom and independence you have. You may also want to discuss it with your doctor or physical therapist, who may have additional ideas on what can be done to make living at home a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Medical Finance Help For People With Disabilities

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Living with a disability can be challenging or overwhelming at times. Fortunately there are many different places available that can be of great help in finding the support and services you need to give you the same opportunities as non disabled people. This list of online resources can help you find information you need as well as services available for everything from health and personal care to finding others to connect with and meet for companionship and support. While we do not endorse any particular website or resource, it can be helpful to have a list like this one, especially if you’ve felt like there’s no place to turn or nothing you can do.

DisabilityInfo.gov: This is a “one stop shop” website from the United States federal government that lists the many different services available. You can visit their homepage here. They list the many different laws and rights as well as programs available.

HUD.gov: HUD is the United State’s department of housing and urban development unit. They can offer assistance in finding a place to live that is safe, obtaining financing for home ownership, making a home more accessible, as well as how you can protect your rights under the Fair Housing Act. Visit the HUD homepage.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: This website gives information on modifying vehicles for disabled drivers and passengers as well as the latest in safety and regulations. Go to NHTSA.

Medicare/Medicaid: Medicare or medicaid may be able to help you get the health insurance and health care that you need. Visit http://www.medicare.gov/ for Medicare or http://www.cms.hhs.gov/home/medicaid.asp for Medicaid to find out eligibility and services available.

Social Security: You may be eligible to receive social security benefits as a disabled person. Visit SSA.gov to learn more.

In addition to these valuable government websites with a wealth of knowledge and information, there are many other places online you can look for help. You can check with local newspapers that list events calendars for entertainment or meeting others. You can also go to sites such as meetup.org where you can connect to others who share similiar passions, interests, or hobbies as you. Many churches of all faiths also have different programs that can help you build not only great relationships with others but also get the help and support you need.

Many times we often feel as if we are alone or have no where to turn. With the power of the internet however, you can reach out to millions of others for guidance, support, and friendship.

Used Stair Lifts

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Buying used stair lifts may be able to save you some money, but you should always make sure that you are very careful in researching and choosing a reputable seller and a quality product. Unfortunately, as it is with many different things, there are always people out there looking to make fast cash – and not always concerned about your safety or well being. Some people unfortunately also prey on those who are most in need and so it is important that you look out for anything that seems too good to be true or just doesn’t seem right to you.

That being said, there are also many advantages to buying used stairlifts, since it can potentially save you a lot of money, and it is also good for the environment to reuse and recycle items instead of constantly throwing out what we don’t need and buy new. Many people when they no longer need the lift or are moving to another home that would need a different type would certainly rather sell it at a low cost than to throw it out. Buying used though always carries certain risks. Here are some things to help you in making your decision and your research:

1. Is the Person Reputable? It is difficult to know who you can trust these days, especially if you are dealing with a private seller through a newspaper, craigslist or ebay ad. How can you be sure that the person you are dealing with is reputable? There is no way to know for sure. Someone who may seem to be very trustworthy may not always be the case. If buying online, be sure you check the seller’s positive feedback rating. Working with a dealership that sells used and reconditoned models may be a better choice.

2. Is the Product Up to Code? Building codes and safety regulations change on a regular basis. Something that may have been perfectly acceptable when it was manufactured 6 years ago may be considered a dangerous safety hazard today. Always check with your local building codes and find out what requirements are necessary before making a purchasing decision. You will also want to make sure that the safety features included match or excel current safety features available on newer models.

3. Installation: You will need to likely install used equipment on your own or hire an independent and licensed contractor. This can sometimes pose its own safety risks if you or the person installing it are not familiar or experienced in the installation of stair lift products. You will also want to be concerned about the removal of the lift from one location to the next. There are likely to be transportation costs, especially if shipping or hiring someone to move it for you is involved.

4. Be Careful With Donations: Many charities and other organizations may accept lifts as a donation and then give them to people in need. This is a wonderful way to help others and give back to the community. However, it is important that you always still check the other things to ensure your personal safety. Just because something came from a charity you trust does it mean that it is safe or the best product for you.

5. Warranty and Service Availability: Many products come with a manufacturer’s warranty. Not all warranties are the same, and they will vary even on the same identical products from state to state and country to country, especially because contract law can be so varied from one location to the next. Some warranties are transferable, meaning the person who purchased the product originally can also offer the same warranty to the person purchasing the item used, but this is not always the case. If in doubt about a warranty issue, be sure to contact the brand directly to learn more.

6. Service and Repair: Finding someone to service and repair a stairlift can be difficult, especially if it is an older model that does not have replacement parts readily available to purchase. While with basic maintenance it is unlikely to have problems, a chair that is several years old or has been under a lot of undue stress such as being taken to the top of its weight limit repeatedly can sometimes cause problems that require repair and servicing. As a general rule of thumb, try to choose a used product that is still being produced, or contact the manufacturer and see if replacement parts and service repairs are available on that particular make and model.

If you are thinking about buying used stair lifts, doing your homework first is a must. You can get a great deal, save money, and keep items out of landfills. However, always make sure the product you are getting is safe and the person selling it to you is a legitimate seller. The old adage of “If it’s too good to be true, it probably is” is a great motto to remember while you are searching and considering used stair lifts.

Where Can I Buy a Used Stair Lift?

This is a common question that many people looking to save money buying a used stairlift will ask. We are an independent site that does not endorse any particular product or website, but below are a few places you can try to find what you need. Remember to follow the tips above and to carefully research the seller, the product, and assess the overall condition of the item.

Craigslist: This is a free online classifieds site where you may be able to find different products available. Go to Craigslist.org and look up the area where you live and search for the item. You may also be able to find other gently used mobility equipment that can be of help for your personal situation.

Amazon: Amazon is one of the world’s leading online retailers and many individuals also sell used items in addition to the ones they sell know. Always research the seller and look for positive feedback and ratings.

eBay: eBay, known most commonly as the original internet auction site, is another site where many people sell both new and used stairlifts. You will likely find a large selection of different types and brands, and many dealerships and venders will also list their reconditioned or returned models.

Dealerships: Many dealers and distributors who sell new products may also have used inventory for sale. Reconditioned models, which are models that were sent back to the factory for repair, are often sold in like new condition at a fraction of the price. The benefit of this is that you may also be able to get a chair that comes with a warranty as well as service and installation.

Freecycle: Freecycle is a wonderful site that allows members to post items they are no longer using to give to others completely for free. You can post a wanted ad, or respond to the listings that others have posted.

Nursing Homes, Hospitals, and Care Facilities: Many nursing homes, hospitals, and other care facilities may have used equipment they are considering replacing or selling. While you will likely need to check with their staff and policies and this may be a more time intensive way to find a chair, you may also be able to get a good deal if they just so happen to be considering replacing their current system with something new.

There are many different options and choices available for those looking to improve their mobility and independence. Always remember to do as much research as you can. While saving money is always a good thing to do, your own personal safety should remain a top priority above anything else.

Curved StairLifts

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Curved stairlifts can be difficult to find but may be ideal for some people, especially those living in a house with a decorative stair case or steps that do not go straight up but instead turn halfway up.

Most stairlifts for turning staircases are custom built depending on the measurements and track length. Since it is not very common, there may be less options or choices available when ordering one, since it will greatly depend from person to person and each home will likely have its own unique differences as well.

Below is a video of a curved stair lift in action:

You can see how the rail is attached to the wall and turns where the steps also turn. While there may be fewer options when it comes to finding a lift that is meant for turning steps or is custom built to fit especially in your home, there are still some choices as far as who to use as a manufacturer and supplier as well as installer. It is recommended that lifts be professionally installed by a reputable contractor or supplier to ensure maximum safety and quality. While some companies do allow customers to purchase their own safety and mobility equipment to install on their own, this is not always the best choice if you are not comfortable with doing that type of work on your own or if you are not experienced. In fact, it could be quite the opposite of safe if you were to do it on your own without knowing how to do it, so be sure that if safety is a concern of yours that you only trust someone else who is licensed, insured, and experienced to do the work.

Here are some of the companies that currently offer curved stairlifts:

Bruno Stair Lifts: As one of the oldest companies in the lift industry founded in 1984, they have a long standing reputation of quality and customer satisfaction. All of their products include professional installation in order to ensure your own personal safety. Learn more about Bruno and the types of products they offer.

Acorn: Acorn is another prominent manufacturer and supplier of home mobility equipment. They too have a long standing reputation of products and customer satisfaction and history. You can learn more about Acorn Stair Lifts here.

Stannah: If you are in the UK, then a Stannah chair as the one pictured in the video above by one of the country’s leading providers may be a good choice for you. Unfortunately finding dealers in the U.S. can be rather difficult.

Sterling: Sterling is another company that may have the right type of stair lift you need in your home for your turned staircase. Based in the Poconos Mountains of Pennsylvania in the US, they offer several options and could be another choice for you to explore. In the UK, you can get the same products from their parent company Minivator. Learn More About Sterling Stair Lifts.
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If you are torn between what type to get or what kind of chair lift is right for you, speaking to a local reputable and independent authorized distributor or dealership may help you view product demonstrations and try them out before committing to the curved stair lifts that are right for you.

Sterling Stair Chair Lifts

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Sterling is another well known name in the industry of home mobility products and stair lifts. A division of internationally UK based company Minivator, they are located in the Poconos Mountains of Pennsylvania in the United States of America. Minivator products are built specifically for the United Kingdom standards while Sterling conforms to US regulations.

Their products consist of indoor stair lifts, outdoor stair lifts, curved lifts, as well as bath lifts. All of their products feature several different things that make them a viable option to choose from when making a decision on the best possible mobility aid for maneuvering up and down stairs from one level to the next for you.

Chairs give you the option of choosing from four different upholstery colors, which can greatly help you make the lift blend seamlessly into your home with the existing decor. These neutral and complimenting colors include mauve (Kerry Pink), sea green (Brechin Green), navy blue (Sky Blue), and a gray tan color (Bute). They offer a variety of seating options, including seats that are foldable as well as a perch chair that allows users who have trouble sitting remain in a standing position to ascend and descend from one level to the next.

Safety belts come as a standard feature which may help some users feel more comfortable or ensure that they remain in the chair. Toggle switches are adjustable for comfort and the seat can be locked to prevent others from accidentally turning it on or using it, which can be helpful if there are children visiting or in the household and want to use it as a toy. Sensors at the bottom of the lift ensure that if something is in the way it will automatically stop and will not move again until the obstruction has been removed.

Their outdoor lift line also has these same features, with the addition of a water proof silver gray cover to protect it from the outside elements of water, wind, and sun.

In addition to their other products, they also manufacture and produce bath lifts, which can be another great aid for more independence and freedom. The chair is installed inside a standard sized or larger bathtub and allows the person to easily sit on the chair and it is lowered easily into the water for relaxing comfort.

Another product Sterling makes are their platform lifts, which can be used for wheelchair access for up to two passengers, ideal for places such as decks, installed indoors, or others. They do not require steps to be present in order to be installed, and can maximize space without the need or expense of installing an elevator system in the home.

Sterling and Minivator continues to improve and innovate with their line of home mobility products. Always be sure when making a decision for the right product for you that you carefully research and review your individual needs and preferences as well as make sure you work with an authorized dealer or distributor to maximize your safety and protection. There are many different options, models, and brands to choose from. Being an informed consumer, as well as reading up on others’ experiences with the product and the company, including customer satisfaction, can help you determine the best product for your needs.

Financing Your Stair Lift

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One of the concerns about purchasing and installing a stair lift is the overall cost of the item. Financing a stair lift for some can be a major expense, as the average cost can range anywhere from $1500-$3800 depending on brand, type, installation, and features desired and needed.

The good news is there are many programs and different options available in obtaining either a loan or medical insurance assistance in making the purchase. There are many different resources you can check with to see if there are any programs available to you depending on your personal circumstances that can help provide you with funding or making your home adaptable and comfortable to live in.

Here are just a few of the different choices available for financing:

Payment Plans: Many dealers offer special payment plans, some with or without interest accrued. A payment plan allows for you to make small monthly payment over the course of a year or longer to help make the purchase more affordable.

Small Personal Loans: By speaking to your bank, you may be able to qualify for a small personal unsecured loan. Loans typically are for two to three years and involve making small monthly payments. There may be additional interest charges and fees depending on your credit history. Be sure if pursuing this option you have a way to repay the loan, as you do not want your credit to be adversely affected. If you have the need to remodel much of your home due to a disability, you may also find more information at hud.gov.

Your Insurance Plan: Some insurance plans may cover different things if they are determined medically necessary, including modifications for the home. Because plans can vary from individual to individual, you should always check with your insurance plan and program.

Your State’s Department of Welfare: Your state’s department of welfare can have much information on what programs you may be eligible for, especially if your reason for needing a stair lift is due to a physical disability. Your state should have a website with this information, or you can find the phone numbers for the appropriate department to contact in the front of your local telephone directory phone book.

Local Churches and Charities: There are many local organizations and charities out there that may be able to help or provide assistance in finding financing or grants. Begin by checking with your local churches as well as other charities and you will be surprised at what resources they might be able to offer to you. Even if they cannot help you directly, they may know of other programs or persons who can.

Your physician: We often forget that our physicians are constantly aware of the latest in medical care as well as programs available in helping their patients. If all else fails, ask your physician or physical therapist if they are aware of any programs or different organizations that may be able to help you.

Having a stair lift in your home can give you more freedom and add to the overall enjoyment and quality of your life. If the cost is preventing you from increased mobility and independence, hopefully some of these options will help you find the support and resources you need.

What Should You Look For in a Stair Lift?

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When you are purchasing a stair lift, there are many different options and choices available. Stairlifts can greatly help improve your mobility and comfort in your home and can be an affordable solution for making simple modifications to your living space.

Here are just a few of the things you should consider when shopping around and looking for a good seat lift to help you move from one level of the house to the next level:

Size: There are many different sizes available depending on the brand and the series of the product. The first thing you will want to consider is the size of your stairway. Narrow steps and halls can make it difficult to have a large bulky chair mounted to the steps for those who are not using the lift. If you have a narrow area you may want to consider one that can be folded and does not take up too much space.

Weight: Most lifts have different weight limits. Most can safely accommodate a person weighing up to 300 pounds. Heavier duty models and some of the ones used in commercial applications can be found with weight limits upward of 500 pounds.

Safety Features: Different manufacturers and models come equipped with different safety features. Safety features are an important quality to consider and is one area where you should not compromise. Most models provide either seat belts, or the ability to purchase a seat belt, as well as different sensors or systems to ensure the seat is locked in proper position before operating or to make sure it brakes properly.

Comfort: You should feel comfortable when seated in the chair, even if you will only be using it when traveling up and down the steps. Many offer supportive cushions, footrests, arm rests, and contoured seats, and other features that are designed to maximize your comfort.

Installation: It is recommended to have the lift professionally installed when possible to maximize safety and protect the warranty of the device. While some are available to purchase and install on your own with instructions, the peace of mind in knowing it is done safely and accurately by a reliable and licensed contractor may be of benefit for some.

Power Supply: Most stair lifts are either battery powered or electric powered. A battery powered lift offers many benefits, such as no need for wiring or cables to run the device. It can also work during power outages. However, some may prefer an electric powered one as it would not require battery changes.

Warranty and Service: Hopefully you will never have problems with your stair lifts once they are installed. However, from time to time there will be things that happen from normal wear and tear that can cause the device to have the need to be repaired. Check with the dealer or distributor you are working with what the warranty is, the process for getting the chair fixed or serviced, and other information regarding the regular required maintenance.

With so many choices and options, it can be an overwhelming decision. By following these guidelines above, you will hopefully be able to choose on which type of stair lifts are right for you.

Summit Stair Lifts

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Summit Stair lifts are another popular brand and model for stair lift mobility products. Produced and manufactured in the United States, they offer one of the longest manufacturer warranties on their products and strive to provide quality products that are reliable and durable. Their 3-5 year warranty covers all mechanical parts, though does not include labor.

In addition to the Summit Stairway Lifts line they also offer and manufacturer the Pinnacle series and the Summit Max. All of their products feature important safety features to minimize risk or the chair running into any obstructions on the staircase. Their Pinnacle series offers 4 different color options for the upholstery and is rated for up to 400 pound capacity. The Summit Max has a 500 pound capacity limit. All of their products are available as electric operated DC and mount to the steps themselves instead of the wall. Some may be available as battery powered if that is a more suitable solution for you.

Summit stairway lifts are available to purchase and install on your own, though you may be able to find contractors available who can include installation for your chair and in your home. When making the decision to purchase a chair or seat for moving from one level of your home to another, you will want to make sure that it can be properly and safely installed so you do not have any risks of injuries.

In addition to chair lifts for moving up and down the stairs, the company also produces and sells dumbwaiters. Dumbwaiters can be very beneficial for transporting items from one level of the home to the next without the concern about carrying it up and down the steps.

When making a decision on the best stair lift for you, you should always make sure that you carefully research and consider your own individual needs and preferences. You will want to check with local building codes to ensure that your product meets local and national specifications as well. The size of your stair way, including the width and the length will also play a role in which type is right for you. There are several different brands, styles, and different features and there is no one single chair or style that is perfect and right for everybody.

Be sure that when purchasing any product for your home, especially home mobility products, that you have gotten them from an authorized dealer or distributor. When hiring a contractor, make sure they are licensed and insured as well as qualified and experienced in doing the work for you.

Bruno Stair Lifts

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Bruno stair lifts are another leading manufacturer and brand of stairlifts and other wheelchair and mobility products. Founded in 1984, the company has a strong history of providing various types of lifts and chairs for individuals. Based in Wisconsin, they are popular throughout North America but also have a global presence in all parts of the world.

They currently offer what is known as the Electra-Ride Straight Rail Stairlift line, which has four different models. Three of these models are intended for indoor use, while they also have a 400 pound capacity outdoor model for steps that lead in and out of homes outside. Their models feature battery powered operation and flip up folding seats and footrests for easy passing through by other household members and guests who do not use the seat for moving up and down the staircase. One added feature they offer in their Elite series is the availability of different color choices in upholstery of the seat, which allows for individuals to choose an aesthetically pleasing design that matches their current home decor.

In addition to straight rail accessibility products for manuevering up and down stairs from one level to the next, they also offer curved rail products. This is a very good option for anyone who does not have a straight staircase but rather one that is curved.

Other products the company manufacturers and sells are vehicle lifts. They offer chairs to assist people getting in and out of their automobiles, includes platform lifts for wheel chair use. They also offer lifts for helping others for getting their equipment such as power scooters, wheel chairs, and other mobility aids in and out of the car. They also provide turning automotive seating.

All seats and products are sold through their authorized dealers and distributors. To protect the interests of their customers and maximize safety, they do not recommend self installation and will gladly have their technicians safely and properly install the seat. The Association of Members of Accessibility Industry (AEMA) recommends that stair lifts be installed by professionals to ensure a safe and efficient operation.

When purchasing and shopping around for various stair lifts, including Bruno stairlifts, it is important to do your research and carefully consider the different features and products you will need. Always make sure you work through an authorized dealer to maximize safety and the quality of the product. Bruno also offers a wide variety of videos, brochures, and other information on their site to help you see the chairs in action and to determine which one may be right for you.