Many Florida retirement communities offer two-story homes. This might mean that your loved one needs some help getting up the stairs. If you're purchasing a stairlift, you are likely taking your time in making your choice. There are several to choose from, and the one you put in your home for your loved one who has trouble climbing up and down the stairs needs to be perfect. During the decision making process, look for some accessories to make the ride up and down the stairs even more safe and enjoyable. This guide provides some ideas to help you make your choices.

Seat Belt

Just as seat belts work to keep people safe in vehicles, they keep your loved one snug in place on a stairlift. Decorative seat belts are available to make the lift seem more customized, and you have it installed before the workers bring the unit to your home for installation.

Stand or Sit Frame

Not everyone needs to sit when they ride a stairlift. Ask the dealer to install a stand or sit frame so that your loved one has a choice. The frame easily adjusts between the stand or sit position so it's easy to operate. This add-on makes the lift work better for two different people, who may not have the same needs, as well.

Hinged Rails

If the stairway is narrow or the home is small, hinged rails allow the user to fold the chair up against the wall when the unit it not in use. Workers install this apparatus at the factory or you can call a technician to have one installed in an existing stairlift.

Folding Footrest

Not all stairlifts come with a footrest. When you're shopping for the perfect unit, ask for a footrest so that as your loved ones are riding up and down the stairs, they have somewhere to put their feet.

A folding footrest works the same as a wheel chair. The rider simply moves it up or down with their feet as needed.

Power Swivel Seat

If the stairway does not wrap around enough for the stairlift to turn the corner, have the company install a power swivel seat. Your loved one can push a button and turn the seat to a position that's easy for them to get in and out of the chair.

Go over all your options and include your loved ones in the decision making process. Ask your home caregiver about stair life accessories they may have seen in other homes to get more ideas on how to customize the unit for your family member.

Share