How can I choose a stair lift?

How do I choose the right stair lift?

Here are some simple things to think about:

• What shape are your stairs? (Are they straight or do they have turns?)
• How much space is on your stairs?
• How much do you weigh?
• How easy is the stair lift to use?
• How much money do you want to spend?

You can ask a family member or support worker to help you.

Looking at pictures and talking to other people can also help you choose.

Can stair lifts be used on all stairs?

Stair lifts help people go up and down stairs. Some stair lifts work on straight stairs. Others can be used on stairs that turn. It is a good idea to talk to an expert about what type of stair lift you need for your stairs.

If you find reading hard, you can ask someone to read this to you. You might also like using tools that read text out loud.

How do I know if I need a straight or curved stair lift?

Look at your stairs. Are they straight from top to bottom? You may need a straight stair lift.

Do your stairs have turns or bend around corners? You may need a curved stair lift.

If you are not sure, you can ask a family member, friend, or stair lift expert for help. Taking clear photos of your stairs can also help you get good advice.

Some people use sticky notes or draw pictures to work out the shape of their stairs. This can make it easier to explain to others.

How much weight can most stair lifts carry?

Most stair lifts can carry people who weigh up to 19 stone (120 kilograms or 265 pounds). This means most people can use them safely.

If you are not sure a stair lift is strong enough, ask someone for help. You can also use pictures or ask someone to show you how it works.

Will a stair lift change my house forever?

A stair lift is a special chair that goes up and down the stairs. Most stair lifts do not make big, lasting changes to your home. Usually, they are put on the stairs using a few small screws. When you do not need the stair lift anymore, it can be taken out. The holes from the screws can be fixed easily. If you want to talk about stair lifts, you can ask someone to help you, like a family member, friend, or support worker. You can also use pictures or videos to help you understand how stair lifts work.

Can you put a stair lift outside?

Yes, you can put a stair lift outside.

Outdoor stair lifts are made to be used in rain or sun.

If reading or understanding is hard, you can:

• Ask someone to read this with you.
• Use pictures or videos to help understand.
• Use a screen reader to hear the text.

Should I buy or rent a stair lift?

Are you thinking about getting a stair lift for your home? You can buy or rent one.

Buying means you pay more at first, but the stair lift is yours. Renting means you pay each month, but you give it back when you don't need it.

You can ask someone you trust to help you decide. You could also use pictures or talk to a support worker to help you choose.

Do I need a professional to put in a stair lift?

If you want a stair lift, it is best to have a trained person install it. This keeps you safe and makes sure it works well.

You can ask for help from family, friends, or support workers when talking to the installer. You can also use pictures and step-by-step guides to help you understand the process.

What safety things should I look for in a stair lift?

When choosing a stair lift, make sure it has things to help keep you safe.

• Seat belt – This keeps you safe while you sit on the stair lift.
• Easy to stop – The stair lift should stop quickly if you want it to.
• Buttons are simple – You should be able to use the buttons easily.
• No sharp edges – Check there is nothing sharp that could hurt you.
• Stops if something is in the way – The stair lift should stop if it sees something in its path.

Ask someone you trust to help you look at these safety things.
You can also use pictures or videos to help you understand how the stair lift works.

How much space does a stair lift need?

A stair lift is a special chair that moves up and down the stairs.

You need enough space on your stairs for a stair lift to fit. The stair lift needs space for the chair, the rail, and for you to sit safely.

Ask a stair lift company to check your stairs. They can help you measure the space.

You can use a tape measure or ask someone to help you.

If you find it hard to measure, you can use pictures or a video call to show your stairs to an expert.

Can stair lifts be made to fit what you need?

Stair lifts can be changed to help you. For example, they can be made to fit your stairs at home. The seat, controls, and safety belts can also be changed to suit you.

If you need help using a stair lift, you can talk to someone who knows about them. You can also ask for pictures or videos to show how they work.

You might find it helpful to use a family member, a support worker, or a friend to help you choose the right stair lift.

How long does it take to fit a stair lift?

Putting in a stair lift is usually quick. Most of the time, it takes a few hours. Sometimes it can take up to one day.

If you want help understanding this, you can ask someone you trust to explain it. You can also use pictures or videos to help you see how it works.

Can I get help to pay for a stair lift?

You might be able to get help to pay for a stair lift. This could mean you pay in smaller amounts over time, instead of all at once.

If you need help, you could:

• Ask the company selling the stair lift about payment plans.
• Talk to a family member or friend to help you understand your choices.
• Use pictures or drawings to see how the payments work.

How do I choose a good stair lift company?

Choosing a stair lift company can be hard. Here are some steps to help you:

• Ask your friends or family if they know a good company.
• Look for companies with good reviews. Reviews are what other people say about the company.
• Make sure the company has trained workers to fit and fix the stair lift.
• Check that the company gives you a clear price before you buy.
• Ask if the company offers a warranty. This means they will help if the stair lift stops working.

If reading is hard, you can ask someone you trust to help. You can also use text-to-speech tools to read the information out loud.

How much does a stair lift usually cost?

A stair lift is a chair that helps you go up and down stairs safely.

Most stair lifts cost between £2,000 and £5,000.

The price can change if your stairs are straight or curved, or if you need extra features.

Ask someone you trust for help to compare prices. You might find free online tools or speak to an expert for advice.

Will Medicare or insurance pay for a stair lift?

Medicare and insurance are ways to help pay for your health needs.

Most of the time, Medicare does not pay for stair lifts. This means you may need to pay for the stair lift yourself.

Some private insurance plans may help pay for a stair lift, but not all do.

It can help to:

• Ask your insurance provider if they pay for stair lifts
• Ask family or friends to help you call or fill out forms
• Look online or call charities for support and advice

How do I look after a stair lift?

Taking care of your stair lift is important to help it work well and last a long time.

Here are some simple things you can do:

• Keep the rail and seat clean by wiping them with a dry cloth.
• Make sure there is nothing in the way of the stairs or the rail.
• If you hear strange noises or if it stops working, tell an adult or call the company that made the stair lift.
• Ask someone to check your stair lift once a year. This is called a service.

You can use a reminder chart or a calendar to help remember when to clean or check the stair lift.

Can you get a stair lift that you can move or use for a short time?

Some stair lifts are easy to move and do not have to stay in one place forever. These are called portable or temporary stair lifts. They are good if you only need help for a short time or in different places. Ask family, friends, or a carer to help you choose the right stair lift. Pictures, videos, or talking to an expert can make it easier to understand how the stair lift works.

What happens if the power goes out?

If the power goes out, the lights and machines might stop working. This is called a power cut. It can be dark and quiet. You might not be able to use things like the TV or your phone charger.

If this happens, you can:

• Use a torch to see in the dark.
• Let someone know you need help.
• Stay calm and wait for the power to come back.

You can write down what to do or use a picture guide to help you remember.

Can more than one person use the same stair lift?

Only one person should use the stair lift at a time. This helps keep everyone safe.

If someone needs help, a family member or carer can walk next to the lift.

If reading or understanding is hard, you can ask a friend to help you read this, or use a screen reader.