Mobility
Choosing a Stair Lift that suits your Home
The late Bob Hope once said that “you know you’re getting old when everything hurts and what doesn’t hurt doesn’t work”. One of the difficult things about getting older is losing one’s independence due to lack of mobility. Where once we would not have given a second thought to “flying up the stairs” to make a bed or put something away, we now might only contemplate such an “expedition” once in the day, and even then, it might be “on all fours”.
Whether the stairs proves a challenge due to old age, illness, accident or disability – the “stair lift solution” maybe cheaper and easier to find than you might think. Consider the following questions when you are trying to decide which stair lift is best for you:
• What kind of stairs do you have?
• Is your need permanent or temporary?
• How much can you afford?
• Can you avail of a grant?
Stair Type
Stair lifts are classified into two types. The first is a straight stair lift that contains no curves or landings in the middle. These are usually the cheapest. The second option is the curved stair lift which may involve a twist, turn or landing. Because there is an element of customisation with this stair lift they are generally more expensive and take longer to install.
Permanent or Temporary
Your injury or disability will help determine whether you need to rent or buy a stair lift. If you anticipate that you will require the stair lift for no longer than a year then renting is probably the best option. However, if your condition is more permanent due to illness, age or disability then purchase will work out cheaper in the long run.
Budget
The two options available are to buy a new stair lift or go for a secondhand/reconditioned one. A new stair lift is likely to come with a higher price tag, but this cost does come with a variety of benefits. One of the main advantages is that a new stair lift will give you the peace of mind of a manufacturer’s warranty, so you’ll be covered in the unlikely event of a breakdown. You can also be confident with an up to date model that spare parts should be easy to get hold of from the manufacturer. New stair lifts come with a choice of optional special features, so you can select the best ones for your needs, such as a swivel seat or footrest. A new stair lift will be made to measure to fit your particular staircase and will be professionally installed by your supplier. You can expect a reliable performance and a sleek appearance if you choose a new model.
On the other hand, an obvious advantage of used stair lifts is that they are cheaper in price. However, remember that a secondhand stair lift is likely to have a limited warranty, or none at all if you buy from a private sale. It is likely to be difficult to find replacement parts if the model is no longer being produced. If buying a used stair lift, check whether it is just secondhand or if it has been reconditioned, and make sure you’re aware of the extent of the guarantee. It’s advisable to set up a contract for regular service and maintenance.
Grant Information
All the information on the Mobility Aids Grant Scheme and the Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability is available on www.citizensinformation.ie.
The Mobility Aids Grant Scheme provides grants for works designed to address mobility problems in the home. For example, the grant can be used for the purchase and installation of grab-rails, a level access shower, access ramps or a stair lift. The grant is primarily for older people but people with disability can also access the scheme.
Means Test
The Mobility Aids Grant Scheme is a means-tested grant. This means your total household income is assessed to find out if you qualify for the grant and at what level of assistance. The maximum grant available will be €6,000 and may cover 100% of the cost of the work.
Where to Apply
Apply to your local authority and a full list of these is also available on www.citizensinformation.ie.
Special Offer!
If you attended the recent Ideal Homes Exhibition you may have noticed that Access Stairs Ltd had both a straight and curved rail stair lift on show. They also had a special offer show price of €2000 (ex VAT) for installation of a straight stair lift and from €5,000 (ex VAT) for installation of a curved rail stair lift. The good news is – if you mention this article you will also get this special price.
Call 01 4600197 or 087 9056378 for a free consultation with no obligation. Unlike many other stair lift providers Access Stairs Ltd also offer a reduced cost rental option if your immobility is short-term (e.g. hip replacement). If required, the straight stair lift can be installed in the same week as enquiry while the curved stair lift can be installed within 3 weeks of order. 24 hour breakdown service is also available.
