Information about stair lifts

yahooBuzzArticleHeadline = "Information about stair lifts"; yahooBuzzArticleSummary = "A stair lift is a mechanical device that is used to transport elderly or disabled people up and down the stairs. Nowadays, there are various types of stair lifts for sale. When purchasing a stair lift, there are several points you might want to consider."; yahooBuzzArticleType = "text"; yahooBuzzArticleId = window.location.href; For many old and/or disabled people, the stairway that always was such a breeze may could suddenly become a major problem in everyday life. As a result, these people have to spend most of their time confined to the ground floor of their houses, with the upstairs effectively out of bounds. According to a study by the University of California's Disability Statistics Center, approximately 60% of America's 1.6 million wheelchair users face daily problems in getting around their homes. Often times, the relatives of these persons will just advise solving the problem by 'relocating to a bungalow or nursery'. However, the logistical and emotional impacts of moving one's residence are often grossly underestimated. To those affected, having to leave one's trusted home will often feel like yielding, which could in the longer term lead to depression and a general sense of failure. Nowadays, there is however an answer: a stair lift.

A stair lift, sometimes also referred to as a 'chair lift', consists of a high-grade durable wall-mounted rail with a comfortable, mechanic seat attached. The seat moves up and down the rail through a rack-and-pinion mechanism, moving the sitting person up and down the stairs with very little effort. The stair lift was originally invented by C.C. Crispen during the polio epidemic of the 1920s, to help his wheel chair using friend in climbing the stairs of his home. In recent years, the device then known as the 'inclin-ator' has underwent many stages of improvement. Nowadays, stair lifts come in a wide variety of models, able to transport a person through both straight stairways and stairways with a curvature. Additionally, one may encounter models for use outside and models which feature a large platform on which one can securely park a wheelchair.

If lack of mobility starts limiting your life to the ground floor of your house, you may want to think about buying a stair lift. Nowadays, stair lifts no longer have to be those boring industrial-like machines that contrast so strongly with the interior of your home. You will discover that there is an immense variety of seat models and coverings available, to make sure your stair lift fits perfectly into the warm familiarity of your home. As for power, stair lifts come in both AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) variations. AC-powered lifts are connected directly to the mains power supply, while DC-powered lifts utilize special rechargeable battery packs. DC-powered lifts are generally more expensive, but they have several important advantages. The most important advantage of a DC-powered lift over an AC-powered lift is safety; in case of a power blackout, a DC-powered lift will continue to operate. You should be aware of the fact that short-circuiting is an exceedingly common cause of fire; in a case like that, an AC-powered lift will not be able to transport you down to safety. When planning to buy a stair lift, also take the following factors into consideration:

- Control mechanism: a joystick-control is generally seen as easier to use than a button-based control. Especially people with arthritis.
- The glide-factor: This affects the general smoothness of the journey.
- Power: a DC powered version offers more safety and a generally smoother ride.
- A swivel seat will allow you to exit and enter the lift without taking awkward steps.

Looking at the price, a stair lift is not likely to be be a light investment. However, due to recent price drops, prices have fallen into a range that is acceptable to most people with a standard income. In the end, the price will ultimately be determined by your personal needs, as well as the design of your staircase. Curved stair lifts have to be custom-made and may therefore be significantly more expensive to manufacture and install. For those that are not able pay up front or only suffer from temporary disability, stair lifts are also available for rent. You can also consult your retailer for special financing plans. We recommend you consult a local retailer and have your home evaluated before buying a stair lift.

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