Staying in their own home is the goal of most people as they age. Moving house to accommodate the difficulties with stairs can present problems. Including the emotional wrench from a place you may have brought your family up. Investing in a home lift specifically designed for the elderly can allow you to stay in your home. Stairlifts work very well for the elderly; we discuss these in this blog (Internal link). However, many people prefer the look and style of a home lift. So, here we shall explain the benefits and disadvantages to help you decide on your best home lift for the elderly
Lifts for your advancing age
These specially designed lifts accommodate older people as opposed to home lifts for the disabled. Small and compact, with easy-to-use controls, these lifts move you smoothly between levels of your home. Useful items, such as a built-in seat and lighting, make the journey pleasanter for the ageing person. A choice of sizes allows one to three persons to travel together. Helpful for those who need extra support or need equipment or aids with them.
Benefits of a Home Lift for elderly Users
Most elderly agree that the main benefit of a home lift is the freedom to use their home fully again. This investment means they can stay in their beloved home and delay moving towards sheltered or care homes.
There are many areas around the home where it is possible to place a home lift, unlike stairlifts. However, consideration of the structure will dictate the final decision in the best position.
Light and airy, the home lifts of today are easier on the eye. Compact designs and more lightweight construction materials mean that corners, cupboards, or the curve of the stair are all possible installation points.
The choice of finishes for your home lift can give you options to help blend it into your home décor. Do you prefer wood, metal, or fabric? These are available along with a large colour selection.
We no longer need a separate room to house the working of a lift. Modern home lifts house motors within the unit itself. In some cases, there is almost silent operation. Energy efficient, too, using far less power than you’d expect. Swift installation, as most models, can be up and running in your home in a couple of days.
Safety is another benefit as elderly people can travel up and down stairs and allay fears of falls. An added benefit is that you can place other items in the lift, such as heavy boxes or cases.
Installing a home lift can increase the value of your home. If your own children are advancing in age, they will appreciate the inheritance of a home lift.
Disadvantages of a Home lift for the Elderly.
There will be some loss of space, though the slim and neat designs of lifts today, this loss will be minimal. Though, the ability to be able to reuse your whole home again may easily outweigh this disadvantage
People do worry about the cost of a home lift. However, you may find that the price is much lower than you thought, plus there are grants to help.
Types of Home lifts for the Elderly
Platform lifts
We usually install this lift when there is a double-height stairwell with no floor between the levels. It is a flat surface surrounded by barriers to prevent moving off. The Terry, Cibes Lifts, and Pollock Platform Lifts are some examples. Talk to us if you have this situation in your home.
Through Floor Lifts
The most common installation is of a through-floor lift; Here at Anglian Lifts, we have a range of choices and work with many brands. We are sure we can give you the perfect one for you. Through-floor lifts are typically fully enclosed. They travel through an opening in the floor or ceiling. The lift covers this opening to prevent people from falling in. Altura and Stiltz lifts are among the highly recommended brands. We are official partners with Stiltz.
Pneumatic Vacuum Elevators (PVE)
Instead of an electric motor, PVEs are air driven. Check the PVE pages for more information on these. You can also read our blog post on an installation of a PVE. We have the experience and expertise to fit these types of lifts in your home.
The best home lift for the Elderly
In deciding which is the best home lift for the elderly client, the situation and individual needs will determine the result. Working within your budget and your desires is where we at Anglian Lift can advise you. Whatever you choose, you will find that investing in a home lift will give you the freedom and independence to stay in your home for as long as possible.
