When you think of a stairlift, you probably think of a conventional seated model. However, an increasing number of stand-up stairlifts are now available which offer a range of unique benefits to some users.
Seated stairlifts have been commonplace now for many years, giving users a new lease of life thanks to improved mobility and independence around the home. However, they’re not perfect for everyone; this is where stand-up stairlifts can be considered.
If you suffer with painful or troublesome joints such as knee or ankles, sitting down and standing up again can be both painful and time consuming. Doing so near stairs can be particularly tricky. Alternatively, you may finding the process of sitting down and then returning to your feet a tiring and painful one.
It’s in scenarios like this where a stand-up stairlifts can be particularly useful to people.
Stand-up stairlifts allow the user to travel up and down the stairs either standing up, as the name suggests, or sitting down. Additional safety precautions and features are fitted to these types of stairlifts which make them suitable for users who wish to stand.
The first key difference is often the platform, or foot plate, which may be larger or have a slightly different construction to that of a traditional seated stairlift. This is because it is built to support the full weight of the user. The foot plate will probably be wider as well, as will the seat on the stairlift.
In addition to this, stand-up stairlifts also have safety functions added for a safer ride. A safety bar, or barrier, can be lowered between the user and the front of the stairlift to prevent them falling out, while the seat is built in a way a way which allows them to them to stand and lean more comfortably while the stairlift is in motion.
The controls for a stand-up stairlift are also slightly different in most cases. This is primarily a positional thing – the controls are moved and often constructed in a different shape (e.g. wider) to allow the user to operate while they are standing. Most will also come with a second control included as well for peace of mind.
As stated, most will still retain the capability for the product to be used as a seated stairlift. This will still include all of the safety options required on such a model, including seatbelts, safety cut-offs and functions to make the ride more comfortable. Common functionality such as sensors to check for obstructions on the rail are also found on just about every stand-up stairlift.
Like other indoor stairlifts, a stand-up stairlift will usually have the customisation options of the sit-down variety. For example, a high-end model will include different upholstery colours and fabrics to help it blend in with existing décor in the home.
If you want more information about stand-up stairlifts, the models available and whether it would suit your needs, contact our expert team today. We will be happy to talk you through your options and discuss your specific requirements.