Wondering about the safety of a stairlift if you use a wheelchair? The truth is, lifts are particularly prudent and safe for those individuals that rely on a wheelchair or scooter. Don’t let assumption regarding restrictions due to a wheelchair turn you away from exploring how a stairlift could change and improve everyday life. Talk to a mobility professional and learn more today.
If you rely on a wheelchair, access can be challenging. A lift can be a solution to improving accessibility inside the home, outside your property, and even into your vehicle. It makes sense to discuss, demonstrate, and check out the many mobility aids and devices available for people with physical limitations, including those that utilize wheelchairs.
So, can you use a stairlift safely if you happen to be in a wheelchair? The answer is ‘yes’:
Modern Technology
Stairlifts for wheelchairs are a testament to the modern technology and contemporary designs of recent years. These lifts now have built-in sensors that detect obstacles, objects, or issues before they become a safety hazard. Furthermore, there are mechanisms in place to prevent collisions which provide a smooth, seamless ride for the user.
Battery longevity is another concern and modern lifts are outfitted with batteries that endure and backup options. A power outage won’t derail your utility of a stairlift when you have a battery backup for electrical components.
Durable and Dependable
Stairlifts are durable and dependable, they can accommodate the added weight of the chair as long as it has been designed to do so. Swivel seats will help users adjust and ride, while most control is handled from simple remote access. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations pertaining to usage and enjoy the feeling of freedom to move about the home at-will.
Safety Standards
It merits repeating that you should only use the lift as it is intended to maintain safety, as well as to prevent costly damage to your lift. When used properly, the ease of moving the chair onto the platform, securing belts, and pushing a button to get where you want is incomparable. Stairlifts designed with wheelchairs in-mind are operated on smart technology, that is, it can detect things in its path or when there is a mechanical issue or failure. You are in good hands!
Compact Size
Stairlifts take up a lot less space than you may think. Stairlifts can be constructed and configured to fit pretty-much any home or living situation. Typically, the stairlift vendor will visit to measure and look at where the lift is to be installed, which ensures the best fit and long-term satisfaction for the client. Furthermore, a professional mobility technician can install your lift within a day, usually, which means accessibility is not far away!
Inside and Out
A great advancement in mobility aids and equipment is that lifts are becoming more versatile. They can be adapted for indoor and outdoor locations, providing access to yards, gardens, porches, patios, and even pools! Consumers can have lifts installed on their vehicle so they can drive and stow their wheelchair or scooter safely and easily. The only non-negotiable is that you should only allow an industry professional install and make repairs to your lift. If you allow anyone that is not qualified or certified to work on your stairlift, it may nullify any warranty on the device but also opens you up to costly damages, repairs, and even injuries, if human error occurs. Play it safe and buy from a reputable company that offers installation, service, and support after the sale.
Professional Support
On the topic of buying from a professional, consider the added convenience that you will experience. You always know that there is someone available to help if you experience issues or have questions pertaining to your equipment. Furthermore, you are never ‘stuck’; we stand behind every lift that we sell! Make sure that the company, seller, or vendor that you choose to do business with does the same.
Autonomy to Age in Place
One of the greatest attributes among older Americans is autonomy and when that is compromised by physical disabilities or mobility issues, it can jeopardize the freedom to live life the way that they want. Making modifications to the home, such as installing stairlifts, can provide that little bit of support and assistance that makes it possible to live life independently. This freedom to ‘age in place’ can contribute to greater self-esteem, mental wellbeing, and overall quality of life.
Ready to learn more about stairlifts and safety? You can rely on the expertise and experience of Pacific Mobility; we have an established reputation of serving the Bay Area with over 60 years in the industry. For customer satisfaction, top-notch service, and unsurpassed support, contact the mobility professionals at Pacific Mobility today.
President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.
24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)
