Wheelchair lifts are great for residential uses as they provide comfortable and easy access to the home of physically disabled or elderly individuals who might have a tough time with mobility on their own. With a residential wheelchair lift, they can easily get around stairways and get a great boost in confidence for getting some of their independence back. Wheelchair lifts for the home come in a variety of compact and trendy designs which fit in perfectly with your home’s decor. Available in various models such as vertical platform lifts, portable and inclined wheelchair lifts which are perfect for outdoor and indoor uses.
Hydraulic or Pressure Components
You can get great looking curved or straight stair lifts in various models and brands. They come in two operating modes hydraulic and electric powered. Hydraulics is used to power the hydraulic models and is great in areas that don’t have electricity. They are very quiet and give a comfortable and smooth access. They are also simple to install. Electric powered lifts offer more flexibility and are less costly. You can configure and customize these mobility devices to your specific needs. They have strong platforms and can accommodate wheelchair of various sizes and can even accommodate power wheelchairs, adult wheelchairs, children wheelchairs and sports wheelchairs.
Safety Features of Residential Wheelchair Lifts
Many great safety features are included in residential wheelchair lifts. They include sensors that are highly sensitive to objects that might be blocking its path. If an objection is found, the sensors will instantly stop the lift which prevents any damage to the lift or potential in just to the user. Most platforms have a non-slip surface design which prevents the user from slipping off. Wheelchair stair lifts also include an optional remote control which makes operation much easier. To prevent unauthorized usage key locks are also included. Additional safety features are listed here: • Anti-skid surface • Audio visual alarm system • Automatic dual access ramps • Constant pressure control knobs • Electro-mechanical braking system with motor • Emergency alarm • Emergency stop switch • Final limit controls • Folding seats with armrests • Grab rails • Manual lowering unit • Safety belts • Safety under panel detector
Some Battery Assisted Wheelchair Companies
Before buying a wheelchair lift you need to identify your needs. A good start would be to find out what models, makers and dealers are available. Some outstanding manufacturers include Savaria, Thyssenkrupp Access and Bruno. If you still need more help, you can request a technician from the dealer who can help you select the wheelchair stair lift that is ideal for your home.
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Top 10 Wheelchair Lifts
The Best Stair Lift Companies
Home Preparedness and Maintenance
If your parent has mobility issues and requires the assistance of a walking cane, walker, or wheelchair, then you may also want to consider installing a stair lift in either your home (if they currently reside with you) or in their home. Stair lifts (also known as chair lifts) allow users to sit comfortably in a seat that takes them up the steps using the stairs’ railing as a track. According to Consumers Advocate, the top ten stair lift companies are Harmar, AmeriGlide, Improvement Center, Handicare, Stannah, 101 Mobility, Ascent, Acorn, Bruno, and EHLS. Learn more about each of these companies and how stair lifts work below.
What are Stairlifts?
Stairlifts, as they sound, are a convenient way for those with mobility issues to bypass what can be painfully challenging stairways. The stairlift has a track mounted on the wall of the stairway and a motorized chair attached to the track. The chair is a secure seat that will comfortably take you up the flight of stairs.
Moreover,the motorized gear (power-operated) will move the chair at an appropriate speed while the passenger is securely fastened. Y
Additionally, you will also have the use of a ‘call and send’ button in the event that someone else needs to use it.
The stairlift offers freedom and access to those that otherwise would not venture upstairs or do so at their own risk.
Types of Stair Lifts Available
The three main types of stair lifts available for the home are; straight stair lifts, curved stair lifts, and outdoor stair lifts.
Straight Stair Lifts – Designed for a set of stairs going straight up to a second story or straight down to a basement or lower level. Standardized rails are used and the installation time is usually minimal.
Curved Stair Lifts – Required for applications where there is a curve, bend or landing mid-way up or down the staircase. Installation for curved staircases involves building a custom rail to fit your unique staircase and can take longer to install.
Outdoor Stair Lifts – Typically installed on porches, patios and decks, or to help navigate uneven terrain leading to a pier. Customization may be required depending on whether the stairs are straight or curved. Outdoor stairlifts are engineered to withstand the elements through the use of marine-grade vinyl and weatherproof covers.
Common Stair Lift Features
Many stair lift companies offer the following features as either standard with their models or as an additional add-on or upgrade.
Folding Seat & Footrest – Designed to help minimize the amount of space the stairlift takes up when not in use. Some models offer a power option that automatically folds the footrest when the seat is lifted.
Swiveling Seat – Allows the user to rotate the seat away from the open stairs for a much safer exit from the stair lift.
Adjustable/Customizable Chairs – Additional comfort in the form of generous padding, adjustable seat height and armrest width makes for a much smoother ride.
Seat Belt and Safety Sensors – Automotive-grade seatbelts help keep riders safely on the chair while the stair lift is in motion. And safety sensors can detect objects on the stairs that may obstruct the stair lift’s function.
Remote Controls – Can be used to automatically “call or send” the stair lift up and down the stairs allowing multiple users to utilize the stair lift.
What to Consider When Evaluating a Stair Lift Company
Consider the following when evaluating each company and ensuring it is the high-quality product you want:
- What is the price range you are willing to spend on the stair lift?
- Does the company offer a payment plan?
- How many different types of stairlifts does the company manufacture?
- Do you need an indoor or outdoor stairlift?
- How many years warranty will the company offer?
- What are the safety features incorporated into the product?
- Is the stairlift self-installed or require professional installation?
- How does the stairlift handle a power outage?
- Is the stairlift battery-operated or electrical?
- Do you want to buy or rent the stairlift?
Therefore, when you answer the questions above, consider both the present and future needs of your aging loved one. Be intentional with your research and review of each of the companies. Being a knowledgeable consumer will put you in the best position possible.
The Top 10 Stair Lift Companies
The stairlift companies organized below are a starting point for you to review and analyze each one to find the best option for you. The various stairlift manufacturers will provide different types to meet your needs. Not sure where to start?
| Types of Stairlifts Available | Base Price Range for Straight Stairlifts | Base Price Range for Curved Stairlifts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bruno | Straight, Curved & Outdoor | $3,200 to $5,200 | $10,500 |
| Handicare | Straight, Curved & Outdoor | $2,600 to $3,700 | $6,200 to $8,600 |
| Stannah | Straight, Curved & Outdoor | $3,000 to $5,700 | $12,000 to $15,000 |
| Harmar | Straight, Curved & Outdoor | $2,200 to $4,000 | $14,000 |
| AmeriGlide | Straight, Curved & Outdoor | $1,700 to $2,100 | $8,200 |
| 101 Mobility | Straight | $3,400 to $3,500 | Not Available |
| Ascent Stair Lifts | Straight, Curved & Outdoor | $2,200 to $4,000 | $6,2000 to $14,000 |
| Acorn Stair Lifts | Straight, Curved & Outdoor | In-home consultation required for pricing | In-home consultation required for pricing |
| EHLS, a Lifeway Mobility Company | Straight, Curved & Outdoor | $2,200 to $4,000 | $6,200 to $14,000 |
| Savaria | Straight & Curved | $2,500 to $3,000 | $8,800 |