What to Consider Before you Purchase a Stairlift

There are many things to consider before you purchase a stairlift, from the type of disability you have to the type of stairs in your home. You will also want to evaluate aspects such as insurance coverage, costs, and your budget to ensure you are happy with the outcome and your stairlift. Working with a mobility aid expert at a reputable vendor is the key to long-term satisfaction and success.

When it comes to buying a stairlift and mobility aids, you should take the time to weigh out your options and narrow your choices. There is a lot to consider when making these types of purchases, from how it will work in your home to how comfortable you are using it. Before you make a big decision like investing in a stairlift, first take the time to troubleshoot and brainstorm the best mobility solutions for you, your lifestyle, and your living situation.

Some things to consider before you purchase a stairlift include:

The Vendor

The right mobility vendor makes all the difference when buying equipment and stairlifts. In the Bay Area, talk to the industry experts at Pacific Mobility to find out more.

The Costs

Don’t be driven off by the costs of stairlifts; many times, much of the cost is covered by insurance. Take the time to talk to a qualified retailer first to find out what a lift actually costs, out of pocket.

Type of Stairs

Know that the type of stairs you are fitting with a lift matter, too. Curved stairways will cost a lot more than a simple straight stairway. While it is not impossible, it does take more time to install curved lifts. This should be another consideration in making your buying decision.

Condition

Buying new stairlifts is the preferred way to go, however, if you are going to go with a used device, only buy from a reputable company. A private party won’t offer the warranty and service needed- especially for second-hand equipment.

Rentals

So, does a rental make more sense for you? If you are temporarily disabled, rentals seem like a practical choice. Make sure that you rent from a company that will stand behind and services the equipment if you run into issues. Since these devices are used, there is room for issues that you may not anticipate; make sure that whoever you rent from is willing to help you out.

Mobility Level

The primary user’s level of mobility is also a consideration when buying a stairlift. It may be that the individual is unable to operate the equipment independently, or that they don’t require quite that much assistance. For these reasons, it seems logical to visit a site or vendor to see what options are available and how they are utilized. There could be a device or alternative that offers just enough support and assistance, without being burdensome or costly.

Weight Limit

Know that the typical weight limit for stairlifts is 300-pounds; if you need a stairlift with an expanded weight capacity, work with a mobility aids retailer that can special order and install these specialized devices. User recommendations for operation are generally the same as for the lower-limit lifts.

Brand & Model

If you are driven by brand-name, buy a lift made by a leader in the industry, like Bruno. These devices are widely recognized and widely sought-after due to their performance and longevity. Ask around and see what friends or family use and how satisfied they are with their device or aids. Sometimes, this word of mouth can be very insightful when making your own buying decisions for mobility equipment.

Added Options

There are a lot of extras and options when it comes to lifts, including the style and type of seat. Take a look online and figure out what will work best for you.

Service after the Sale

Certainly, a prime consideration of those buying stairlifts- or other mobility equipment- is the level of service and support after the sale. Sure, everyone is helpful when they are trying to get your money, but what about later? What if you have problems or difficulty with your device? Make sure that you are promised and provided with service after the sale, even if it costs a little bit more. If you lack help when things go askew, you may be sitting on a very expensive lemon.

Demonstrations

If it is at all feasible, it really can be an invaluable experience to visit a showroom; the time and effort is rewarded with comprehensive demonstrations and an insider’s look at the mobility aids available. If you are in or around the Bay Area, visit Pacific Mobility for thorough info and hands-on familiarity with a wide range of high-quality mobility brands. Visit our showroom; it will be worth the trip!

Take a lot of the worry and stress out of choosing the right equipment by working with the reputable professionals at Pacific Mobility; they can conduct a helpful needs assessment to make sure you get the best mobility aids and devices for your lifestyle. Let them demonstrate how a stairlift can change your life for the better; call to learn more today.