Stair-Lifts: So Many Choices
By Schwab, Charles; Special Living Magazine,Publication Date: Spring 2005
Article offers advice regarding the selection of a chair lift for a child who uses a wheelchair. Things to consider when choosing a chair lift include: (1) a minimum stair width of 3 feet, 8 inches where the lift will be installed; (2) the weight of the rider, as stair lifts have weight restrictions ranging from 250 to 400 pounds; (3) whether the child has adequate hand strength to operate controls; an option would be a lift operated with wall switches at the top and bottom of the stairs; (4) whether the child needs help from a caregiver to make a seat transfer; features to consider are lifts with swivel seats, retractable seat belts, and footplate safety sensors, or options such as through-ceiling or full platform lifts; (5) potential long-term physical needs, as used equipment may be a consideration if the child has declining physical abilities; a resource offered is http://www.silvercross.com; (6) whether there is adequate room at the top and bottom of the stair; some units have rails that can fold up and down so as not to obstruct a door at the top; and (7) whether funding for the lift is needed, sources for which can be obtained at a local Independent Living Center. A resource list with web links to several stair-lift companies is appended.
Published by: Special Living (Website:http://www.specialiving.com)
Link to text: http://www.universaldesignonline.com/images/Stairlifts-_So_many_choices_Spring_2005.pdf
