Get help, advice and information on all your Home and Family issues. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/stair.htm Sun, 03 Aug 2008 21:08:06 GMT en Purchasing a used product can often be a gamble. Often if you buy a product like a car or furniture used than you have little or no recourse if it does not work. You also may in fact be inheriting someone elses problem. This can be especially true of home medical aids and home medical supplies. While it can be a risk to buy a used medical product, you can offset these risks in some cases. A stair lift is a home medical aid that is used to help transport a person up and down the stairs. Typically a chair is attached to a rail system that is secured to the stairs. In some cases a small platform called a perch is used in place of the chair. While most of these devices are very reliable and well built, there is a very large potential form misuse. This is why buying a stair lift from a private individual can be such a gamble. You have no way to guarantee that the device has been properly maintained or used. Unless your stairs are the same size as the private individual, you will also probably need to purchase extra rails to fit your stairs. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/86998_Buying_A_Stair_Lift_Used.html Fri, 23 May 2008 23:00:57 GMT Stair lifts are devices that are made to carry people who suffer from arthritis, are older, or are otherwise mobility challenged use the stairs. Using either a set of batteries, or by plugging directly into the wall, these units are responsible for restoring independence and opening houses back up. They are often called stair chairs because generally a chair is attached to the stairs via an aluminum track. There are some models called perch lifts however, that utilize a small platform instead. A perch lift is usually used for someone who has trouble sitting down because of knee or back problems. One popular manufacturer of stair lifts is Acorn, who makes several models including a perch lift. Acorn is a family owned company that operates worldwide. Their US headquarter is in Orlando, Florida, and they employ over 800 employees worldwide. Acorn opened their doors in 1992 and began buying and selling new and reconditioned stair lifts. They quickly realized, due to high demand, that they would not be able to continue purchasing stair lifts and reselling them, and maintain their commitment to their customers, so they began manufacturing their own. Over the years Acorn pioneered the battery stair lift, and has continuously brought innovation and remarkable engineering to the field. They currently manufacture more than 30,000 units a year. Acorn has a very strong presence in the United States, the United Kingdom, South America, Europe, and Australia. Their quality and professional workmanship has made them into the powerhouse they are today, and they are the largest independent straight stair lift manufacturer in the world. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/86103_Acorn_Stair_Lifts.html Tue, 06 May 2008 10:23:19 GMT A stair lift is a piece of home medical equipment that is designed to allow someone who is mobility challenged safely use the stairs. Typically a track is attached to the stairs and a chair or small platform is sent up and down the track by a set of hand or foot controls. There are several well known manufacturers of stair lifts including: AmeriGlide, Summit, and Acorn. A quality stair lift has been thoroughly tested for safety and has built in safeguards, but it is still very important to safely use and maintain these devices. One of the most important ways to ensure safety is to follow the installation instructions, properly installing the stair lift using the correct tools and materials. Most reputable dealers have trained installation technicians available, so if you do not feel comfortable installing the stair lift yourself, you should contact your dealer. Once the stair lift is installed it is imperative that you use the stair lift in the manner it was designed, especially paying close attention to the weight capacity. Most stair lifts utilize high grade materials, but you can put an unsafe strain on the device if you go over the weight limit. Stair lifts made by AmeriGlide are some of the most reliable and safe in the industry. They all utilize high grade aircraft cable that has a breaking point of 4200 pounds, but this does not mean that you should in any way disregard the stated weight capacity. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/86102_Stair_Lift_Safety.html Tue, 06 May 2008 16:38:02 GMT With the advent of the internet there are many different places to buy used products. Where before if you wanted to get an ad to sell a product you had to pay the newspaper or a weekly flyer to publish your ad, now it can many times be done for free. There are numerous sites where all it takes to post an ad is an email address. This is in many ways bad for the buyer, because many people who, knowing their product was in poor condition, would have never paid a newspaper or flyer to advertise it. One thing that you do not want to buy from just anyone is a used stair lift. A stair lift is a device that is used to help people who are mobility challenged use their staircase again. Using a track system, which is usually attached to the actual stairs themselves, a chair or platform, is used to carry a person up and down the stairs. This is for many like having a new home, because otherwise they would have only been able to use the ground floor of their home. It also can cut back on costs, because you do not have to pay someone to help you up and down the stairs. In addition many stair lifts come with attachable baskets so you can transport your laundry, groceries, or other belongings easily up and down the stairs. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/83296_Used_Stair_Lifts_Buying_Guide.html Fri, 28 Mar 2008 09:43:37 GMT If you have ever bought a used car then you know you are taking a big risk. You may be getting stuck with someone elses lemon, or you may purchase it right when everything starts to need replacing. It is a gamble that for many ends up costing them a great deal of money. In addition you are trusting yourself, the lives of the people you love, and the other commuters on the road to something you do not really know all that much about. This is also true of purchasing a used stair lift from a stranger off of the internet or from the classifieds. Stair lifts, devices that carry individuals up and down the stairs, are valuable pieces of equipment. If you search the local classifieds or the online classified you will surely find a stair lift that on the surface look like a great deal. This is rarely the case however. You have no way of knowing if the stair lift was installed properly or used properly. Stair lifts have a maximum weight capacity, but many people do not always follow it. This increases the wear and tear on the motor and is extremely unsafe. In addition the stair lift you buy off of the internet or from the newspaper may have been exposed to the elements or otherwise misused. The chance of saving a few dollars is not worth the risk you expose yourself or your family to when you buy a used stair lift from a stranger. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/83282_Purchasing_A_Used_Stair_Lift.html Fri, 28 Mar 2008 09:42:02 GMT A stair lift is a device that helps those with disabilities or people who have trouble walking go up and down the stairs. These units work by sending a chair or small platform up and down the stairs along an attached track. Stair lifts are generally very safe, but there are some things you should keep in mind when using one of these devices. Stair lifts are very helpful pieces of medical equipment; unfortunately to children they may look like toys. It is very important that you do not let young children use these devices unsupervised or in any manner other than the way that is recommended by the manufacturer. If your stair lift is in a public area, or if you will not always be there to supervise your unit you may consider purchasing a stair lift that can be locked with a key. This is the best way to guarantee that your stair lift will only be used in the way it was intended. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/82370_Stair_Lift_Safety.html Fri, 21 Mar 2008 19:19:37 GMT Stair lifts are devices that are used to help individuals with mobility problems ascend and descend the stairs. Using a small platform, called a perch, or a chair, these devices carry the individual up and down the stairs using a track system. Quality brands like Acorn, Summit, and Ameriglide are all thoroughly tested so that they will provide you many years of dependable service. These quality stair lifts are engineered in such a way that they will need very little maintenance. There are a few things however that you should keep an eye on. It is often said that an ounce of protection is worth a pound of cure. This is almost always true because most big problems started out as relatively small and benign things that could have been fixed if they had been caught. This is why it is important to pay attention to your stair lift. If you ever notice any movement or wobble to the track, then it is a good idea to inspect the braces and ensure that it is properly secured to the stairs. Most stair lifts require that the track be greased periodically. Check your owners manual and make sure you apply the proper type of grease at the frequency prescribed by the manual. This is probably the most maintenance you will ever have to do. There is also a fuse that may need to be replaced once in a blue moon. Otherwise, though, your unit should always move slowly and steadily. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/82369_Stair_Lift_Maintenance.html Fri, 21 Mar 2008 23:37:09 GMT One of the hardest things for us to do as we get older is to climb the stairs. Often, particularly when the stairs are very narrow, curved, or very steep, climbing the stairs can be an incredibly scary task. A missed step at the top of the stairs can lead to disaster, if you live by yourself this is especially true. Since the stairs present such an ominous and large obstacle, often when you get older you simply stop using the upper half of your house. In the recent years the home medical equipment industry has grown and undergone a complete change. Devices that used to only be found in hospitals or were otherwise very expensive are now very affordable and easy to use and install. A stair lift is such a device that can open up a whole new world to you. A stair lift raises or lowers the user along a track that is affixed to the side of the stairs. Depending on the model, these devices can support over 500 lbs of weight and provide a smooth and jerk free way of traversing the stairs. Generally installation can be done in as little as 2 hours using common household tools. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/81480_Stair_Lifts_Opening_Up_Your_Home.html Fri, 21 Mar 2008 20:57:03 GMT Stair lifts have been around for close to 90 years. First developed in the 1920s they have evolved into a very reliable and valuable product. For many thousands of Americans stair lifts provide an essential link between the different levels of their houses. It used to be that when you started to get older the first thing you did was sell your home and move into a single story home. This is no longer necessary because stair lifts can be safely installed in hours at a very affordable rate. In almost all instances it is very easy to install stair lifts in your home. The exception to this is when your stairs are incredibly narrow or curved. It can be very hard to watch someone you love struggle to get up or down the stairs. Even worse is the worry you can feel when you think about them doing it by their self when there is no one there to give them a helping hand. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/81478_Stair_Lifts_Your_Key_To_Freedom.html Sat, 22 Mar 2008 08:26:21 GMT If you have trouble climbing the stairs and want to reclaim the upstairs of your house, you should invest in a stair lift. Most stair lifts are very well priced, but you can save some money by buying a used one. There are several considerations, however, when buying a used stair lift. The first step should be to analyze you needs and requirements. If your stairs are curved or very narrow than you will need a special type of stair lift. If you live in an area that has frequent power outages than you will probably need to purchase a battery operated lift. Once you have a solid idea of what you need and want in your stair lift it is time to start shopping around. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/80974_Stair_Lifts_Reclaiming_Your_Upstairs.html Sat, 08 Mar 2008 01:19:15 GMT One of the hardest about getting older is the loss of freedom. It used to be easy to jump up in the air grab the attic door handle and climb up the attic steps with several boxes in your hand. Now, however, there are many areas of your house that are almost seem to be off limits for no other reason than your body is just not able to climb the stairs anymore. A stair lift can help you open up your entire house. When you buy a stair lift you no longer should feel trapped in your own home because you can not traverse the steps. No longer will you have to rely on your loved ones to help you up the stairs. A stair lift can help you regain your freedom and mobility. There is no longer a need to buy a new home simply because you can no longer navigate the stairs. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/80973_Stair_Lifts.html Sat, 08 Mar 2008 17:57:18 GMT When buying a stair lift one important consideration is the installation of the lift. Most reputable companies can install the lift, but this is something that almost anyone can do with a few ordinary tools. Usually you can save a lot of money by installing stair lifts yourself. It is extremely important, however, to follow all directions provided with the lift and to use the proper tools. If you do not feel comfortable installing the stairlifts than you should have the lifts professionally installed. This does change the price significantly, but is worth it if you can not physically install it yourself or do not have any family in the area. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/80155_Installing_A_Stair_Lift.html Sun, 02 Mar 2008 09:05:32 GMT Choosing an Electric or Battery Powered Stair Lift The advent of technologies has made great impacts on human lives. It has improved ways of doing things in various health related concerns and disability issues. The Stair lift is one invention that has provided tremendous effects in easing the need to go up or downstairs for people suffering from painful joint or back injuries. Many lives have improved and become more comfortable after installing an electric or battery powered stair lift in their homes. It is important to take note which type of stair lift to choose if you decide to have one. There are advantages and disadvantages when opting for a battery powered lift over an electric one. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/79992_Choosing_An_Electric_Or_Battery_Powered_Stair_Lift.html Fri, 07 Mar 2008 09:29:55 GMT Traveling from point to another is as easy as a footstep. The elderly, disabled, and even people doing normal chores can take advantage of the benefits of various accessibility options out in the market. It guarantees convenience, safety, and improved traveling experience either indoor or outdoor. Each has its own good points and drawbacks. Some can cater to your most basic accessibility needs while others can offer more than the usual. Stair LiftsWhen going up and down the stairs start to be a difficult and uncomfortable task, stair lifts are the best option. Electric or battery-powered stair lifts are generally cheaper to install compared to other accessibility options. It requires minimal or no additional space at all. The user can even control the speed of the lift with a press of a button. No more ankle, knee or hip ache to worry when traveling the stairs. Various models offer elegant designs, colors, fabrics that can fit straight, spiral or curved stairs. Also, when not in use stair lifts can be folded up easily and efficiently, thus people can still freely travel the stairs. Stair lifts are best recommended for the elderly and disabled who find it hard or almost impossible to take steps on stairs. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/77010_Accessibility_Options_Stair_Lifts_Platform_Lifts_And_Elevators.html Mon, 11 Feb 2008 07:44:08 GMT It is usually seen that a multi-storied office or hotel uses stair lifts that help in solving the problem of mobility that can save time in unnecessary movements in ordinary stairs. The best stair lift will understand the need of an organization that can be home, office or hospital depending upon the needs. A best stair lift that is installed in the hospital will help in taking the patients from one floor to another without causing any pain or discomfort to the patient. The lifts that are installed in the hospital are big enough to accommodate the stretchers, wheel chairs and beds so that there is no problem in transporting all the equipments from one place to another. In offices, lifts help in saving time while one moves from one floor to another. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/72129_How_To_Find_The_Best_Stair_Lift.html Mon, 17 Dec 2007 23:21:27 GMT Stair lifts are machines that provide solutions to mobility problems of people who are getting old or are limited by physical disability. To them, stair lifts likewise provide them with the freedom to live a normal life. Moving up and down the stairs can be extremely difficult for people whose freedom to move is bounded by their physical conditions. Purchasing stair lifts can be a viable alternative to remedy their condition. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/69803_Quick_Guide_To_Buying_Stair_Lifts.html Mon, 03 Dec 2007 04:30:02 GMT Climbing stairs may have been fun when you were a child, but if you are facing painful climbing, due to arthritis, age, or any other illness or situation, then climbing stairs is no longer fun, but a painful task that you would rather not complete. Stair lifts were developed to take the pain out of climbing stairs, not to mention to remove the fear of falling down stairs. There are many things that may contribute to the inability to climb stairs. Arthritis, back pain, broken bones, multiple sclerosis, and any number of other diseases or illnesses have prevented many people from being able to safely climb stairs, without the help of someone, or without being carried. A stair lift can help you to get back your independence by allowing you to climb stairs completely free from help. And can help family members by allowing them more freedom. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/68416_What_Are_Stair_Lifts.html Thu, 15 Nov 2007 02:46:06 GMT Stair lifts are equipment that can be installed on all types of staircases, either straight, spiral, or curved, for disabled people to move up and down the stairs. They can be set up and removed very easily. There are several types of stair lifts. Some of them have folding tracks, folding arms, and various other controls. The seated stair lifts are specifically designed for people who are able to walk but have problem with climbing stairs. This type of list is useful if you use crutches. The idea behind this lift is to make sure you are independent from needing help. The seated stair lift has a chair that swivels and has liftable armrests, so that the transfer from and in to the seat is made easy. Seat belts provide the required safely to a seated stair lift. The standing stair lifts are for people who can walk and stand, but may be using a walking stick, making it difficult for them to go up and down the stairs without help. In cases where the legs are stiff due to a medical problem or unable to bend due to an injury, then standing stair lifts are extremely helpful. These type of lifts are also useful when the staircases are narrow, as they occupy less space. The safety factor is taken care of by the guardrails. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/68295_Types_Of_Stair_Lifts.html Mon, 19 Nov 2007 11:36:35 GMT Moving up and down the stairs is a difficult task for people who have problems with mobility. A stair lift makes life easier for them and provides independence of movement. A chair lift is a chair that is attached to a track bolted down to a staircase. This lift can be used to carry a person up and down the stairs with just the push of a button. Well! It can also be used for other purposes, like carrying groceries, luggage, laundry and anything else. Chair lifts also have swivel seats that turn away from the staircase and come with remote controls that signal the lift to come to a particular floor. So as not to occupy too much space, they also have a folding track at the lower landing area. They can be fixed on any side of the staircase. This installation needs to be done by a professional. There are several types of stair lifts available, of various shapes and sizes. Chair lifts are better now than what we used to get earlier. They are less noisy and entail no risk of malfunctioning. A small joystick is used to operate them. They come with a remote control to enable operation from either the top or bottom of the stairs. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/68248_Stair_Lifts_And_Their_Importance.html Wed, 21 Nov 2007 18:56:37 GMT Stair lifts are a great invention that help the elderly, the handicapped, or people with temporary disabilities. They help people be independent and provide safety while moving up and down the stairs. In case of not so serious problems, they provide a cheaper alternative to caregiver services. How do you go about purchasing the stair lift that suits you best? There are so many out there that confusion is inevitable. The best one is obviously one that is most comfortable and functional. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/67969_How_To_Choose_The_Perfect_Stair_Lift.html Tue, 13 Nov 2007 14:39:04 GMT Are you having a hard time moving the stairs? When going down, do you feel scared of falling? As far as you are concerned, your decision boils down to two choices transfer your room to a more convenient location or get a home stair lift. Before you can determine the right stair lift for you, it is likewise important to learn the pros and cons of buying home stair lifts. At first, transferring to a lower level seems to be a logical choice but then again think of the many renovations that you might need to undertake. For one, you might have to make revisions in the room where you would transfer. In the end, this endeavor might involve a lot of manpower and budget. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/67310_Choosing_The_Perfect_Stair_Lift_For_Your_Home.html Sat, 10 Nov 2007 19:35:09 GMT Stair lifts serve the purpose of moving individuals up and down the stairs with ease and comfort. They are utilized by people who are in a wheel chair or have bad knees and other medical concerns that make climbing stairs a big dilemma. Stair lifts are ideal for older people and women in their pregnancy stage as well. They can be found in different locations such as shopping malls, restaurants, hospitals, or other establishments that have several floors. Wheel chair lifts are the most prominent found in public places. Depending on the make of the lift being used by the establishment, there are various ways that these lifts work. The most popular kind of wheel chair lift is one that has a chair on the lift. This is one of the most difficult lift to use because it demands that the individual be mobile enough to transfer from the wheel chair to the chair on the device. Here, another person should assist the handicapped in transferring to the top of the chair or back which will depend on their need. Likewise, another person will have to carry the wheelchair in moving to different levels of the stair in order that they can return to the wheelchair. http://advice-and.info/Home-and-Family/64676_Some_Help_Choosing_The_Perfect_Stair_Lift.html Mon, 15 Oct 2007 20:17:17 GMT