Do you have a stairlift? Are there things that you wish you had known first? It pays to do some research before making buying decisions, and you should try to avoid such an important purchase in haste. With a few simple tips, you can avoid buyer’s remorse and find mobility aids that truly improve your quality of everyday life.
Thinking about a stairlift? Avoid issues and regrets by doing a little homework to find the best option for your distinct situation. Mobility retailers widely will demonstrate, service, and install aids, but will they provide customer support after the sale? Additionally, there is a lot of misinformation floating around surrounding mobility equipment, like stairlifts, so research may help you debunk some myths, too. Before investing in mobility aids, there are some things that you should know:
Stairlifts are Easy to Use and Operate
Do not be concerned that stairlifts are difficult or complicated to use. They are easy and your installer will demonstrate the operation for you. Customers widely report how easy it is to learn and use their stairlifts.
Anyone Qualifies for a Stairlift
Remember that anyone can qualify for a stairlift. These are aids that help preserve and increase accessibility, so anyone may benefit from them. Visit a mobility retailer to learn more about available mobility options.
There is a Lift to Fit your Stairs
If you have been delaying a stairlift due to the configuration or condition of your stairs, what are you waiting for? Stairlifts come in a wide range of sizes and styles to fit most staircases and steps, but they can also be customized for unique and unconventional stairs, too. Talk to a mobility professional to find out what options exist for your distinct stairs or living situation.
Stairlifts are Unobtrusive to Others
Worried that a lift will block or obstruct the main stairway in the home? Don’t be. Stairlifts are less intrusive and easy for others to navigate and pass on the stairs. Also, stair lift seats fold in to create a wider berth at the top or bottom of your stairs.
Stairlifts Work Indoors and Out
There are stairlifts intended for inside and outside use. This can provide accessibility to practically anywhere in any home environment.
Stairlifts Can be Temporary
Mobility aids can and may be a temporary mobility solution for patients recovering from an accident, injury, or illness. They are a great advantage during rehab and recuperation. Speak with your physician to find out more!
Be Wary of Secondhand Purchases
You may find some seemingly good deals on secondhand stairlifts during your research into mobility aids. Do not be tempted or lured in; while the price may be right, you must be wary of secondhand stairlifts. First, a lift should always and only be installed by a professional mobility technician, and second, you will not have the consumer support later that is integral to long-term satisfaction. More on that soon!
Stairlifts May Cost Less than You Think
Do not assume that a stairlift is beyond your budget. Many times, insurance coverage helps defray the costs. Furthermore, if you lack insurance, many retailers offer financing or finance options to help get you the mobility equipment that you need.
Seek Support After the Sale
One problem with buying a stairlift from a third party is that you will not have the support later, after the sale, that is so very valuable and important. Who will you call if you experience a technical issue with your lift? What about safety inspections? How about if the lift incurs damage and needs repair? Develop a relationship with a mobility retailer near you for that safety net later, when you want support or services.
Other Aids May Make More Sense
Is it possible that you do not need a stairlift, but that another mobility aid makes more sense? The best way to assess and determine the right mobility solutions for you is to visit a qualified and reputable mobility retail store to see what they have to offer. They will ask basic questions to hone in on the devices and aids with the potential to change life for the better.
Who You Buy From is Key
Don’t experience buyer’s remorse later from choosing the wrong vendor or retailer to purchase your lift. Look at customer feedback and reviews to evaluate how satisfied customers are before visiting and shopping at a mobility retail venue. Seek out those retailers that provide service after the sale including support in case you have questions or concerns about your equipment.
Thinking about purchasing a stairlift to increase accessibility? Pacific Mobility has been providing quality mobility aids and equipment for generations throughout California. We offer service, support, and devices that truly change lives for the better. Call or visit us to learn more.
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)