Is it difficult for you to climb up the stairs? And every time you have to go down you are afraid to fall? Then you have to choices - to move downstairs or to install a home stairlift. Domestic stair lifts has their own advantages and disadvantages - find out if a stairlift will be right for your home.

Moving to the ground floor might be the first thing that comes to mind, but it is not as simple as it sounds. You will have to do major renovations in the house, modifying one of the existing rooms as a bedroom or adding an additional room. Also you will have to create a bathroom. All of this involves an awful lot of work and expenses.

Home stairlifts are not cheap, but comparable to all the costs involved in moving downstairs, they are a more economical solution. Also installing a stairlift is not as much of a hassle as you may think. Companies that sell stairlifts usually take care of all the installation; all you need to do is to measure your stairs. And for an additional fee, most stairlift retailers can do the measurements as well.

Types of home lifts

You can get a suitable stairlift regardless of what type of stairs you have. If you've got an ordinary straight staircase, then you are in luck because straight stairlifts are the most common and the least expensive. If you have curved stairs, than you will need a curved stairlift. Stairlifts can be electric or battery powered.

Modern stair lift companies offer a variety of stair elevators, you can get:

- Standard straight lifts

- Curved lifts

- Through-floor lifts (also good for wheelchairs)

- Lifts designed with shafts

Home stairlifts are produced by companies who make other mobility equipment. Most reliable and durable lifts are by Stannah, Acorn, Ameriglide and Bruno.

Selecting a stairlift that is right for your home

There are two main types of elevators - lifts with a sit and wheelchair lifts. Sitting elevators are cheaper, and they are generally a good choice for elderly people. However, if you are disabled and you think that your condition can progress to the point that you will need a wheelchair, it is better to install a wheelchair lift, like a through-floor elevator, from the start.

Lifts mode of operation is also important. Most machines are operated by the person who is lifted; however some lifts can be operated by another person, such as your nurse. If you think you might need this option, than installing it from the start will save you a lot.

Check if the sit if comfortable for you, most companies let you personalize the sit of your home elevator. It can be adjusted so you are sitting tight, while lifted. Also a variety of sits is available - you can get a standard, removable or folding sit. For your safety a sit belt can be also included.

What direction do you prefer to face while the lift is in operation? Popular models of home elevators usually face sideways. However, if you would rather face forward, you can find models that suit you. Facing forward is a good option for people with stiff knees - it allows you more room.

Used domestic stairlift is an option if you want to save

Home elevators are expensive. Even the simplest model will cost you at least $2000. However, you can find many pre-owned home lifts. It often happens that person's disability is temporary, and after they recover, there is no need for an elevator anymore. Most companies that sell brand new lifts also assist people in selling their used stairlifts.

A home stairlift can be a great addition to your house, providing safety and comfort for elderly and disabled people. With so many options, you can surely find an elevator that will suit your purpose.