How to Choose Suitable Stair Climbers for Disabled

Like most of us, our disabled brethren also have the right to enjoy life, be it travelling or going about routine things like shopping.

In the recent years, the UK has seen significant development in public areas and transport, allowing disabled people to access them as easily as everyone else. However, we still have a long way to go.

Just like public areas, private offices and houses also need to ensure accessibility for the disabled. One of the most challenging everyday tasks for wheelchair-bound people is going up and down the stairs, whether in their homes or elsewhere.

Although it is a relatively lesser known option, a stair climber can be the best solution to resolve this issue. However, choosing a stair climber can be a daunting process as you have plenty of options.

Let’s understand what a stair climber is and how you can choose the right stair climbers for disabled in your family.

A. What Is A Stair Climber?

A stair climber is a compact and electrically powered mobility equipment that can help wheelchair-bound people to ascend or descend stairs at home or in public buildings. The compact size makes it easier to carry the stair climber wherever you go.

You can also charge the stair climber quickly and safely. Usually, they are designed for all age groups, ranging from disabled children to adults. You can also find advanced stair climbers for disabled that are designed to provide support as the user grows older.

B. How to Choose a Stair Climber?

However, choosing the right stair climber can be a daunting task as there are different types of climbers with dozens of features. Keep the following factors in mind to choose the right one.

1. Check the Types of Stair Climbers

Although there are different brands and models available, you will need to consider two primary types when buying a stair climber for disabled. Usually, the first type comes with an integrated seat and the other type of climber comes with an attachment for wheelchairs.

The climbers with integrated seats are suitable for elders and disabled people who can move from one seat to another. The narrow and compact design can fit in small spaces and narrow stairs. You can easily dismantle it for travelling.

The climber with wheelchair attachment, on the other hand, is more suitable for wheelchair-bound people who are unable to move from one seat to another. You can quickly attach the climber to the wheelchair. You can also dismantle the stair climber for travelling. It works with most type of stairs.

Today, almost all stair climbers for disabled are battery-powered. However, you do need a second person to attach or assemble, and then use the stair climbers. Also, both climbers come with an excellent braking system that helps you to control the movement easily on the stairs.

2. Measure Your Staircase Dimensions

Before buying a stair climber for elderly, you should consider the dimensions of the stair in your home. The climber you choose needs to fit properly on the stairs, especially if you have a narrow and confined space.

Before heading to the store, make sure to take the measurements. Measure the width of the staircase and the average height of the stairs. You should also mention whether you have a single flight of stairs.

Also, make sure to check if the climber can be used easily on a curved flight of stairs. If you have more than one flight of stairs, the climber will need to fit in the space with the operator when transferring the disabled from one flight to the next.

3. Check Out the Climber Features

You should also take the most important features of the stair climber into account when choosing one. For example, check out which braking system is used in the climber.

The battery is also an important feature of electrically-powered climbers. Make sure to check how quickly the battery gets charged and how long it lasts. This feature is especially crucial if you frequently take your loved one outdoors, where charging facility may not be available.

You should choose a compact climber, which you can fit into a carry-case when travelling. It should also be easy to put together and dismantle after each use.

4. Take Your Home Environment into Account

When buying a stair climber for elderly, you will also need to consider your complete home environment. For example, you need to think about the width of doors and the flight of stairs to the main entrance of the house.

You may also need to consider whether you have even or uneven flooring throughout the house. Make sure the stair climber can help your loved one to move around the house without any hassle.

If your disabled family member goes to office, you will need to consider the accessibility features available in their office as well. You will need to choose a climber that can work in all these environments.

5. Try to Get A Home Visit

The best way to make sure you are buying the right stair climber for elderly is to ask the manufacturer or supplier for a home visit. Most professional stair climber suppliers are more than happy to arrange a home demonstration.

The home demonstration will help you understand how to use stair climber in the actual environment. Make sure to operate the climber with the company representative to help you understand how the controls work. If more than one person from your family is going to operate the stair climber, make sure they are also present for the demonstration.

6. Consider the Costs

The last, but the most important aspect, is the cost. While you can find several types of stair climbers, not all of them will fit into your budget. Usually, the cost will depend on a variety of factors, such as the quality of battery, spares, warranty, and delivery charges.

Some suppliers may also include training charges in the total cost, while others may offer it for free. You may also have to pay extra for the annual maintenance and servicing. Sometimes, the elderly and disabled users may also qualify for tax exemption.

Make sure to get a detailed breakup of the cost from the vendor before making the final decision. You can also ask if any financing solutions are available and whether you are eligible for one. Remember, as the stair climber is going to be a long-term investment, you have to be very careful.

Conclusion

Buying stair climbers for disabled can provide your loved one with a safe and secure way to go up and down the stairs. It also improves your convenience as a caretaker or an operator without having to make any home improvements. However, you need to choose the right stair climber to maximize the benefit it offers. Of course, we can help you find the right solution quickly. Get in touch with us today on 01245 905855 to arrange a free home assessment or send us a message to find out how we can help.