The population of Austria is getting older! Joints become increasingly stiffer with age, which restricts the musculoskeletal system. As a result, climbing stairs becomes more difficult every day, and eventually, the living environment must be designed so that older people can stay in their own homes for as long as possible.
In many cases, a stairlift offers a viable solution to delay moving into a nursing home for as long as possible. Stairlifts are available in a wide variety of designs and price ranges. They can be purchased used or rented. In many cases, a subsidy can be applied for at the responsible regional office of the Social Ministry Service.
Useful tips for a stairlift
A stairlift is like a small elevator. It is firmly anchored to the stairs and is equipped with either a seat, a pedestal, or a platform for a wheelchair.
A stairlift can be installed in your own home. However, certain requirements must be met for this. It is worth obtaining information in advance so that the purchase of a stairlift does not become a cost trap. Therefore, we will try to clarify the most important questions regarding stairlifts here.
Who needs a stairlift?
As a rule, a stairlift is needed when one or more residents are restricted in their mobility and can no longer manage the stairs in their own living environment independently.
This applies in particular to people in the final stage of life, but the restriction can also be caused by an accident or illness. With a stairlift, the upper living areas of a house can be reached without great physical exertion. Those affected experience a significant improvement in their quality of life and can remain in their familiar living environment for longer.
Can every staircase be equipped with a lift?
In principle, a stairlift can be installed on any staircase. It does not matter whether it is a straight or a curved staircase. It is important that there is still enough space left after installation so that pedestrians can use the stairs. It is therefore recommended to ensure that the staircase is at least 80 cm wide.
Which stairlift is the right one?
The answer to this question depends on the individual case. For a slight disability, a conventional lift with a seat is sufficient. If the person affected has difficulty sitting down and standing up, a standing lift with a pedestal is a good option. For wheelchair users or people with walking aids, a stairlift with an integrated platform is recommended.
As an alternative to the stairlift, the so-called homelift is becoming increasingly popular. A homelift is very space-saving and is not attached to the stairs, but travels vertically through the ceiling from one floor to another. It resembles a conventional elevator, but is much more streamlined and cheaper to purchase, and can also be used as a freight elevator.
Further information on the homelift can be found here: https://www.lift-experten.de/liftsysteme/homelift-hublift/.
Is a stairlift also possible in a rented apartment?
The installation of a stairlift is also possible in an apartment building. This requires the consent of the landlord. Housing associations are usually accommodating and have no objections.When moving out, however, the stairlift must be removed.
What should be considered when buying a stairlift?
In any case, it is worth comparing different providers and models before purchasing. At least three cost estimates should be obtained. Other important points to consider are warranty services and the expected costs for regular maintenance.
The provider must ensure that all necessary building permits are obtained. The total sum should only be transferred once all required documents are available and the stairlift is functioning perfectly.
The installation should generally not be carried out by DIY enthusiast, but by a specialist company. Only then can subsidies be applied for.
How expensive is a stairlift?
The prices of a stairlift depend on the shape of the staircase and the model required. Straight and simple stairs can be equipped for as little as 2,500 euros. A platform lift or a lifting platform suitable for wheelchair users can cost between 5,000 and 20,000 euros.
Are there also subsidies?
There are public subsidies for stairlifts. A prerequisite for this is a care level. Since every stairlift is usually an individual case, only an individual inquiry at the responsible regional office is also possible.
