Facts about Residential Stairlifts

stair lift installation new orleansFor those with impaired mobility, stairs in the home can represent a formidable daily challenge. They are difficult, if not dangerous, to negotiate when you don't have a full range of motion or balance, which can lead to falls and subsequent injuries. Residential stairlifts represent a useful accessibility feature for those who are mobility impaired and would otherwise lose their independent living arrangements. Stairlift installation can easily be done by trained professionals, thus providing the homeowner with safe passage between floors in the home.


A stairlift is simply a track-mounted seat with a drive mechanism that allows users to safely move from one level of the home to another without navigating a staircase. Though stairlifts can provide an improvement in the quality of life among the mobility impaired, there are some other facts you should know prior to moving forward with stairlift installation in New Orleans. For example, factors such as cost, stairlift design, stair rail installation, and ease of use are all important things to consider when deciding to install a stairlift. Keep reading to learn more about what facts you should know when considering the installation of a stairlift.


Tracks

The tracks of a stairlift are the backbone of the entire system, as they are charged with transporting the lift chair up and down the stairs. They are the single most important component of the system when estimating the cost, as there are numerous styles of tracks. Tracks can be modified to match the type of staircase or structural considerations in your home, but those amendments may come at an additional cost. Straight tracks are the most affordable because they are usually mass-produced and are easier to install. Curved tracks may be required if you don't have a standard straight staircase, and they usually must be made to order to get a custom fit with your home. They also require a deft hand during installation, meaning the costs may be higher to put such stairlifts in. Finally, there are outdoor stairlifts made to weather the elements while remaining in reliable working condition. These represent the most expensive stairlifts, whether they are straight or curved.


Residential Stairlifts

Seats

The seats used with your stairlift will determine your level of comfort in moving freely between the levels of your home. The controls for your stairlift will also be located on the seat, so it's important to understand your options when it comes to all facets of the seat. Stairlift speed is governed by regulations that keep it at a safe maximum speed. That can prevent accidents or abuse of the lift. Most chairs have a motor mechanism that works in tandem with a chain to move the lift up and down the track. The drive may involve a worm gear or a rack-and-pinion gear. Seats can come in a variety of forms, including swivel seats, angled seats, seats with open sides, seats with armrests, seats with footrests, and collapsible seats.


Safety Features

Because the stairlift itself is designed to safely move passengers from one level to another, it includes some key safety features that can help prevent accidents. For example, every chair has a seat belt or restraint system that ensures passengers remain firmly seated in the chair while it is moving. Some also have sensors that can detect obstacles on the track that may impede progress or cause problems. For example, a chair may cease moving if a pet is obstructing the path of the chair. If you have children in the home, there are even models that feature key locks that prevent the chair from being used without authorization.

If you have trouble navigating the staircase of your home safely, you may benefit from a residential stairlift. Before installing a stairlift, make sure you understand the basic concepts and what you'll need to know before deciding what kind of lift to install. To learn more facts about investing in a stairlift and stairlift solutions in Baton Rouge, contact Stairlifts of Louisiana at (504) 715-6658.