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Page 5 : Stairs
a Problem? Previous Page
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A
downstairs Bedroom
Many people do not
like this idea, especially where there is no downstairs toilet
and there is only one living room. It may be the practical
solution if you are bed ridden and would otherwise be isolated
upstairs.
Choosing a Lift
Let us assume that you have
decided that you need some sort of lift. If you are wheelchair
bound, or likely to be in the future, a through floor
wheelchair lift is likely to be the best option, particularly
if transfers are a problem.
Try before you buy
Each persons requirements are
different. There are several manufacturers of stairlifts and
each of them has a variety of options that have been designed
for specific mobility issues. This is why it is important for
you to seek information from someone that has experience of
all the lifts, so that they can advise you which is the most
suitable for your condition. You should therefore try out a
stairlift or through floor lift before you spend any money.
You can do this at a demonstration
centre, local showroom or in someone's home.
You should be aware that the price of lifts can vary
greatly so when seeking advice, always ask more than
one company. There is more information on this later on in the
booklet.
Demonstration Centres
There are over 40 Disabled Living
Centres (or Independent Living Centres) in the UK. Most of
these have a range of stairlifts for you to try. The Centres
themselves have well informed and helpful staff, many of whom
are occupational therapists or physiotherapists, and can give
impartial advice. They are listed on
page 20. Dolphin
Stairlifts also have many showrooms throughout
the UK with products on show from the leading
manufacturers.
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