conventional stairlifts

Transcription

INVEST IN LIFE
Stairlifts can be crucial to you staying independent in your
own home – they were invented to make your life easier,
just like a washing machine or a dishwasher.
Installing a stairlift is a positive step to help you improve your mobility,
and not a sign of frailty or old age. It can also reduce your chances of having
a fall on the stairs and suffering a broken bone or fracture.
Investing in a stairlift is still cheaper than moving house or the upheaval of
moving into a residential care home.
If you think your stairs are too narrow or awkward for a stairlift, you may be
surprised by some of the newer, more versatile models available. They’re also
a lot quieter and sleeker than in the past, causing minimum disruption to your
home.
We hope this practical guide will cut down on the research you need to do
before buying a stairlift, and make it easier for you to choose the one that best
suits your needs.
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www.yourstairliftguide.com
YOUR
STAIRLIFT GUIDE
When can a stairlift help?
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What should I think about
when buying a stairlift?
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What type of stairlift will
suit my home?
10 useful features to check
for in a stairlift
What if a stairlift obstructs a doorway
or takes up too much space?
Should I buy new or second-hand?
Should I rent or buy?
What are my consumer rights?
What should I expect from
after-sales service?
How do I find a reputable company?
What difference can a stairlift make?
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WHEN
CAN A
STAIRLIFT
HELP?
A stairlift is a practical
solution for anyone
faced with mobility
problems which may
result from medical
conditions such as
arthritis, stroke, joint
problems, respiratory
problems or
heart failure.
Many medical conditions affect your mobility, and a stairlift can help
with your difficulty, making life that much easier.
· Arthritis
· Stroke
· Cancer
· Posture
· Swollen ankles/feet
· Heart conditions, Angina, etc.
· Emphysema
· Back problems
· Hypertension (Blood Pressure)
· Multiple Sclerosis
Your stairlift advisor will be able to give you pointers on which device best
suits your needs. For instance, if you have trouble bending, a ‘Perch’ style
stairlift may be your best option. Also, stairlifts have a maximum weight
limit; you may want to bear this in mind.
Similarly, if your co-ordination is affected through injury or illness, some
types of stairlift will be more suitable than others.
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WHAT
SHOULD
I THINK
ABOUT
WHEN
BUYING A
STAIRLIFT?
HOW MUCH WILL A STAIRLIFT COST?
Because every staircase is unique, a stairlift is built to specification, so costs will vary.
A staircase can vary from a simple straight configuration to something far more complex.
Your preferred stairlift advisor can explain this in more detail.
HOW LONG WILL A STAIRLIFT TAKE TO INSTALL?
A straight stairlift installation can take as little as one hour. Expect a curved stairlift to take
longer to install. A stairlift can be installed in as little as three or four days from when you
place your order.
HOW SAFE ARE STAIRLIFTS?
Modern stairlifts are extremely safe and reliable. Electronic and mechanical brakes make
a sudden descent impossible, and they usually have a diagnostic display which informs
you of any potential problems. Safety sensors on the footrest and stairlift carriage will
automatically stop the lift in the event of an obstruction on the staircase.
WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE IS A POWER CUT?
In the event of a power cut, the lift will continue to operate
as normal. Modern stairlifts are battery powered, and
the stairlift track has charge points which allow the lift to
charge when not in use.
WHO SHOULD I CALL FOR MORE
INFORMATION?
Contact a reputable stairlift manufacturer, they will be only
too happy to give you any information you need. They will
speak to you about your requirements and advise you of
the safest, most suitable option.
WHAT SHOULD I DO NEXT?
Call your preferred stairlift manufacturer, they will tell you
what kind of stairlift is suitable for your staircase. Arrange
for one of their professional surveyors to assess your
staircase, and your requirements; they’ll suggest the most
suitable options for your situation.
Tip: Take someone
with you when you
go for advice, they
may think of things
you wouldn’t, and
if they are also your
carer they will know
your limitations/
needs and help you
choose something
appropriate.
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WHAT
TYPE OF
STAIRLIFT
WILL SUIT
MY HOME?
Stairlifts work on tracks fitted to follow the line of the stairs.
The tracks can be straight, or designed to bend around
curved staircases. The latter type may take longer to install,
but some stairlift companies provide a
modular rail system which dramatically
Tip: Did you know
reduces installation time.
that a stairlift can be
Their big advantage over through-floor lifts
is that they are relatively easy to install (and
remove) and don’t require major building work.
Most new stairlifts should last at least ten years
if correctly serviced and maintained.
The type of stairlift you choose depends on
the dimensions of your staircase and the type
of medical condition you may suffer from. Your
stairlift representative will be able to advise you
regarding the best option.
Look for a stairlift that has easy to use paddle or
joystick controls, and a swivel seat that makes it
easy for you to get on or off the lift at the top of
the stairs.
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installed in as little as
an hour?
Tip: Look for a
stairlift that fits to
the stairs and not to
the wall, this avoids
the need for any
unnecessary repairs
to the home.
Tip: Stairlift rails
can be fitted with
hinges to avoid
obstructing of
doorways at the
foot of the stairs.
CONVENTIONAL STAIRLIFTS
These are most suitable
for people who are
capable of getting on
and off a seat and either
walking or transferring
to a wheelchair. They
can be made to fit your
staircase with either a
straight or curved rail
fixed to the stairs.
STRAIGHT-RAIL
STAIRLIFTS
These are easier to install
because the rails are
less complicated than those for a curved
stairlift. There tends to be more room at the
top and bottom of the staircase for getting
on and off. Most have a slimline track and
fold away so that the lift does not obstruct
the stairs for other people in the home.
CURVED-RAIL
STAIRLIFTS
For more complicated
staircases, a curved stairlift may be the
most suitable option. Although they
generally take longer to install, some stairlift
manufacturers offer modular rail curved
stairlifts, allowing installation times of days
rather than weeks.
Before they are fitted, a surveyor will visit
your home, assess your requirements, and
measure the dimensions of your staircase.
After you have received a quote and
decided to go ahead with the purchase
of a stairlift, installation can be arranged
promptly; this is a quick, mess-free
process which will not damage your décor.
Some straight-railed stairlifts can be
fitted with a small transfer platform to
accommodate a small bend at the top of
the staircase; this is a more cost-effective
solution than having a curved stairlift installed.
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STAIRLIFT OPTIONS
SEATED STAIRLIFTS
This is the most popular model – you sit on a swivel seat which locks into position during
transit. Most models feature comfortable seats and armrests, with a high seat back for
extra support. They should have a safety feature which automatically stops the stairlift if it
encounters an obstruction. Some manufacturers provide a multi-function sit/stand stairlift
for multiple users with different mobility requirements.
STANDING STAIRLIFTS
This is where the user stands and holds onto a guard rail. This type is a good option if you
are able to stand and walk either side of the stairs and/or where the staircase is extremely
narrow or you have problems bending your knees. Some manufacturers produce a sit/
stand stairlift for multiple users with different requirements.
PERCHING STAIRLIFTS
Similar to the standing stairlift, but with added support at buttock level. Again this is useful
for narrow staircases, or suitable when you have trouble bending at the knee.
STAIRLIFTS WITH A WHEELCHAIR PLATFORM
This type of stairlift is most practical for users who are wheelchair-bound. Instead of
transferring from the wheelchair into the seat they just wheel themselves straight onto a
platform which is then raised up the stairs. However, these devices do take up a lot of
space and are not suitable for many homes.
OUTSIDE ALL-WEATHER STAIRLIFTS
Similar to standard indoor stairlifts, these weatherproof lifts can be fitted to outdoor
steps and come with protective raincovers and DC battery packs which can be stored in
lockable boxes. Their main advantage is helping the user access steps up or down to their
home. Models are available with wheelchair platforms.
THROUGH-FLOOR LIFTS
Most of these types of lifts are installed to help wheelchair users in homes with staircases
that are not suitable for stairlifts. In most cases they are fitted without a shaft to save on
structural work.
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10 USEFUL
FEATURES
TO CHECK
FOR IN A
STAIRLIFT
1.
Comfortable padded seat with swivel function (so you don’t have to twist your body to get on and off).
A powered swivel seat if you are not strong enough to turn yourself.
2.
3.
Safety belt: for added security.
4.
Soft start and stop facility: to ensure a smooth ride with no jolts.
5.
Paddle switches: these can be operated by the lightest touch and don’t require a lot of strength or manual dexterity.
6.
DC battery pack power: the stairlift will operate even in a power cut. On a fully charged battery pack this will equate to six to eight trips – usually enough to see
you through until the power gets switched back on. Most batteries recharge automatically at the top and bottom of the stairs.
7.
Low level foot rest: so there is no step up or down to getting on the stairlift.
8.
An over-speed governor: this safety mechanism will prevent an uncontrolled descent in the event that the
stairlift should develop a fault.
9.
A digital display: this alerts you to errors in functioning
and enables you to forewarn an engineer what the technical problem is.
Remote control function: to ‘call’ or ‘send’ the lift up or down the stairs. Two handsets are best.
10.A quiet and smooth operating system: try out different models to see the difference.
Tip: Look
for a stairlift
manufacturer
that provides a
comprehensive
warranty. Although
extremely reliable,
you may want
extra peace of
mind from a
company that
offers a call out
service within 24
hours.
Tip: Modern
stairlifts are
near-silent and
blend seamlessly
and unobtrusively
into your home. A
straight stairlift can
be installed in as
little as three days
after ordering.
Tip: Buy a stairlift
with safety sensors
on the footrest and
carriage; these
will stop the lift
automatically if
any obstruction is
encountered on
the stairs.
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You can get
round this
by getting a
hinged rail
which folds
away at the
bottom
either manually
or electrically.
Most stairlifts are
slim in profile, in
addition the seat,
arms and footrest
should also fold up;
this will allow other
people to use the
staircase as normal.
WHAT IF A STAIRLIFT
OBSTRUCTS A
DOORWAY OR TAKES
UP TOO MUCH SPACE?
SHOULD I BUY
NEW OR
SECOND-HAND?
It is possible to save money by buying
a second hand stairlift, and some
companies do offer reconditioned ones
with warranties. Most second-hand
stairlifts are only suitable for straight
staircases.
Some companies will even assist with the
relocation of a stairlift from a private seller, and
ensure it is suitable for your staircase.
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Tip: Avoid buying
older secondhand stairlifts
which have a
mains supply and
a trailing cable
from the control
box to the seat
– these cables are
very expensive to
repair and most
engineers hate
working on them.
SHOULD
I RENT
OR BUY?
Rental can be a
good choice if
you think your
needs will be
short-term. You
will be expected
to pay installation
costs, and then
a monthly rental
payment which
will include all
maintenance and
servicing.
However, while
cheaper in the
short-term it may work
out more expensive in
the long-term.
Tip: Only rent if it
is for short-term
use. Otherwise
it can become
expensive.
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WHAT
ARE MY
CONSUMER
RIGHTS?
Like the majority of transactions, when you enter
into a contract, you and the organisation you’ve
contracted must follow its terms.
Always read the small print in a contract before you agree to it; you’ll know exactly what
you are contracting for – and what the supplier is agreeing to do for you.
You are protected... there are laws that sometimes give you the right to return something –
depending on how you bought the item, and why you want to return it.
You will normally have the option to cancel the contract for a few days after you have
signed it. Details should be on the agreement.
Look for the Crystal Mark on company paperwork, this signifies clarity set out in their
terms/conditions and other contracts of sales.
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WHAT AFTERCARE
CAN I EXPECT?
Reputable companies will always
offer a maintenance service as
standard; and should offer a
seven days a week call-out
service and 12-month warranty.
Many companies offer alternative warranty plans.
These will vary depending upon your requirements,
so ask your stairlift representative what options
are available.
Manufacturers have a network of engineers, so they
can get to you quickly should an emergency arise.
HOW DO I CHOOSE
A REPUTABLE
COMPANY?
Personal recommendation can be useful – if you
know someone with a stairlift, go and check it out
for size; and quiz them about reliability and aftercare
service.
A reputable stairlift company will be only too happy to send a representative round
to chat to you about your requirements; alternatively one of their trained advisors
can assist you over the telephone. There should never be any pressure to buy, and
companies should advise you of any aftercare services prior to purchase.
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WHAT
DIFFERENCE
CAN A STAIRLIFT
MAKE TO MY
LIFE?
Read below how people’s lives
have been transformed by a stairlift.
“The stairlift has made a world of difference, I am now more independent in my own home.”
“Life is so much easier now that I have had the
stairlift installed.”
“ I no longer have to crawl up the stairs which used to
take me some time; it is wonderful to use the stairlift
now.”
“The stairlift has given me confidence in getting up
and down the stairs safely.”
“I now feel safe going up and down the stairs.”
“The stairlift has given me more freedom and
independence and is a lot safer.”
“The stairlift has changed the quality of life for the
user and has given them some independence back.”
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Simple, safe and stylish,
Acorn Stairlifts give people
the chance to enjoy their
FREE!
D
V
DG
own homes again.
to Ch uide
oos
Stairliftsing
P
resented
by
Dr. Hilary
Jones
• Safe and reliable
• Slimline fold-away design
• New or reconditioned
• Direct from the manufacturer
• Next day installation available*
Call now on freephone
0800 326 5198
for your free DVD and information pack
*Please ask for details
Produced by
Acorn Mobility Services Ltd.
Telecom House, Millennium Business Park, Station Road, Steeton, West Yorkshire, BD20 6RB
5243/ACSG/GB0113

conventional stairlifts

Transcription

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