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Handicap stair lifts

The extent of disability or handicap

Is the user of the handicap stair lift able to lift himself/herself from the chair of the wheelchair to the stair lift? Is the user able to stand a minimal weight on his or her own two feet? If yes, then the stair lift is the right thing to do. For people who are not able to manage an independent transfer from stair lift to wheelchair or vice versa, you may have to consider purchasing something else like an elevator.

Is the user able to hold down a button?

Most of the modern handicap stair lifts require that the user press and hold the up and down button to maneuver the stair lift up and down the stairs. If the user cannot fulfill this, then consider another alternative device. However, if the user has no problems with his or her upper body, they are perfectly suitable for a handicap stair lift.

Good body trunk control

In order to keep one’s position within the seat of the handicap stair lift, one would have to have at least reasonable control over one’s upper body. Otherwise, the handicap user would not be able to sit safely on the stair lift chair, slipping and sliding on the stair lift is not a good idea.

Making sure the stair lift comes with safety belt

Most of the recent models of handicap stair lifts come with safety belts but if you’re purchasing a used stair lift, please check that they have safety belts. If not, see if you can get it installed. Even if the used handicap stair lift comes with seat belt, ensure that the safety belt is still in good condition. In the case of a use lift, the elasticity of the belt could be already worn out and may need to be replaced. The safety belt is a very important part of the handicap stair lift, so make sure it’s working perfectly before installing it.

The height of the stair lift seat vs. the height of the user

To ensure a smooth transition between the stair lift and the wheelchair, the height of the stair lift needs to be suitable for the user. If the user of the stair lift is on the short side, lower the seat down a little so that they can grab the side of the stair lift and move on to the seat of the stair lift a little easier. Don’t make them struggle just to get seated. And if the user is tall, the depth of the seat is important.