How to Choose a Stairlift for Mom

By Julie McCormick, Co-Owner | April 20, 2017 | Comments Off on How to Choose a Stairlift for Mom
Elderly Care in Winchester City VA: How to Choose a Stairlift for Mom

Elderly Care in Winchester City VA: How to Choose a Stairlift for Mom

If your mom lives in a home with multiple stories, it may become difficult for her to climb up and down the stairs to reach all of the rooms in her house. Since many seniors have mobility issues that put them at a higher risk for falls, stairs can be particularly tricky and pose a threat. Sometimes people believe that their parents cannot remain in a home with stairs even with help from an elderly care provider. However, before you make the decision to move your mom out of her home, you may want to consider having a stairlift installed instead.

Two Kinds of Stairlifts

The kind of stairlift your mom will need depends on the configuration of her stairs. If your mom’s house has a straight flight of stairs that leads directly from one floor to the next, you’ll need a straight stair lift. These are generally cheaper and easier to install. However, if the stairs have a curve, you’ll need a curved stairlift. Curved stairlifts take longer to install and usually cost more. They require the installing company to review the site prior to installment.

Choosing a Stairlift Company

Some stairlift companies offer a free, no-obligation review of the home for installation and will provide a free estimate. Look for a company that is able to both install and repair the stairlift. A good stairlift company will be able to answer your questions and make you feel comfortable with their ability to meet your needs.

Purchase or Rent

Determining whether to purchase or rent a stairlift depends on several factors. Cost, of course, is a major factor. You’ll want to think about how long you expect your mom to stay in her home and calculate the cost of renting a stairlift for that length of time compared to the cost of buying the unit. If your mom rents her home, you should take that into consideration as well. If your mom owns her home, think about how the stairlift will affect the resale value of the home.

New or Reconditioned

One option for reducing the costs involved in installing a stairlift is to purchase a reconditioned stairlift. A reconditioned stairlift has been used before, but has been thoroughly checked over and all worn out parts have been replaced. If you decide to go with a reconditioned stairlift, look for a company that will offer at least a one year warranty. It’s important to note that if your mom’s stairs are curved, you will likely have to purchase the rail for the stairlift new since they are typically custom-made for the home.

Installing a stairlift can be a good option for helping your mom stay in her home longer with some help from you and her elderly care providers. A stairlift will allow her to reach upstairs bedrooms and bathrooms so that she can continue to enjoy her entire house instead of being confined to one floor.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring a professional elderly care in Winchester City, VA, please contact the caring staff at LivinRite Home Care. Call Us Today at (703) 369-6677. Serving Northern Virginia, The Valley, and Surrounding Communities

Sources

How to choose a Stair Lift

http://www.homeadvisorhomesource.com/7-important-things-to-consider-before-choosing-a-stairlift/

 

Julie McCormick, Co-Owner
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Posted in Elderly Care in Winchester City VA, Home Safety and tagged