If you struggle going up and down stairs or are worried about loved ones, installing chair lifts for stairs in your Reading, PA, home can greatly reduce health risks such as falls.
A recent study in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine shares an alarming statistic that more than 3 million older adults end up in the Emergency Department for fall-related injuries, and 71.6% of those occur indoors.
Home modifications like grab bars, stair lifts, walk-in showers, wheelchair ramps, and raised toilet seats can improve your ability to navigate your home safely and maintain independence.
In this article, we’ll explore what chair lifts for stairs are, who might need them, and how to find a reliable company in Reading, PA.
What Are Chair Lifts for Stairs?
The terms “chair lift for stairs” and “stair lifts” are generally used interchangeably. A stair lift is a mobility device that lifts you up and down the stairs in a seat. There are different types of stair lifts, but they usually include a seat with a footrest and use electricity to travel up and down the staircase.
Stair lifts reduce the risk of falling in older Americans. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 14 million Americans over the age of 65 report falling each year. While not every fall is stairs-related, many Americans live in homes with staircases, increasing their risk of injury.
Do You Need Stair Lifts In Your Home?
Signs you may need a stair lift:
- You struggle to get in and out of chairs
- Walking requires a lot of effort and you regularly break a sweat
- You’ve noticed a decline in your movement and muscles
- Your loved ones share concerns and think you shouldn’t be walking up and down the stairs on your own
While stair lifts are a great solution for some, they’re not right for everyone. Some experts, like Heidi Gras, a Licensed Master Social Worker and Executive Director of LifeCircles PACES, recommends “making other accommodations whenever possible, mostly encouraging proactive support from physical and occupational therapists to maximize independence and function in their home.”
Some specific alternatives Heidi suggests include physical therapy, balance training, occupational training, and ADL training. These can support your lifestyle without making major changes or modifications to your home.
Other experts on senior care, like Wil Thomas, a veteran writer for senior issues at Seniors Bulletin, believes that “Stairlifts are pretty impressive tech making a real difference for older adults wanting to stay in their homes. These chair lifts are a game-changer for safety and independence, which is huge for seniors who love their multi-story houses. Yes, they can be a bit of an investment (2-3k for straight, 10k+ for curved), but many families find it’s worth every penny compared to moving or needing more hands-on care.”
Whichever decision you make, ensure it’s right for you and your family. If you’re on the fence and need an extra vote, speak to your doctors or other trusted medical professionals.
How to Find a Chair Lift for Stairs in Reading, PA
If you live in Reading, PA, reach out to Independent Home Solutions. We install stair lifts, wheelchair ramps, platform lifts, and walk-in showers so you can safely use your entire home.
Read our five-star reviews on Google or browse our project spotlight articles to get a taste of what we offer and how we treat our customers.
Installation Process for Stair Lifts in Reading, PA
Ready to get a stair lift in your Reading, Pennsylvania home? Here’s the installation process:
- Call 717-393-8213, complete the free estimate tool, or fill out the contact form below. We’ll arrange a time for the free initial assessment.
- Our team will come out and assess your stairs and discuss your needs.
- You’ll choose a date for installation. (Standard stair lift installation takes one day).
- Our team will come out and install the Bruno stair lift, show you how to use it, and answer your questions.
- If you have any follow-up questions, please call us at 717-393-8213
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a chair lift for stairs in Reading, PA, cost?
The average cost of stair lifts is $3,400 to $10,000. Customized or heavy-duty stair lifts can go for as much as $30,000, and you may be able to find stair lifts for $2,500, but installation fees typically aren’t included.
Some older adults may be eligible for grants or coverage from private health insurance or Medicaid. However, Medicare usually doesn’t cover stair lifts.
Will stair lifts help me age at home?
Yes, mobility devices such as stair lifts ensure you can move around your home safely and age in place with confidence. If you’re living on your own, other aids such as grab bars, lifted toilet seats, and walk-in showers are extremely beneficial and can reduce the chance of falling.
What’s a good stair lift company in Reading, PA?
Anyone looking for a reliable stair lift company in Reading, Pennsylvania, can contact our team at Independent Home Solutions.
Currently, we serve residents in Harrisburg, Lancaster, Reading, and York.
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