Tips for Navigating Life with a New Home Stairlift
Having a stairlift installation isn’t something that everyone accepts easily. For many individuals, they find it hard to accept that they may need this form of support and worry that it will take away from their sense of independence – despite their purpose being the exact opposite of that.
If you have recently had a new stairlift installed in your home and are still feeling apprehensive about having and using one, regardless of your reasons, then read on as we offer our top tips for navigating life with a stairlift.
Try to be Open Minded
Whilst it may feel easy to be stubborn in your mindset and go about your daily life the way you’re used to (such as walking up and down the stairs), it’s okay to recognise that maybe some form of additional support is needed or could make things easier for you.
Stairlifts aren’t designed to hinder your independence, rather their purpose is to help you continue it. By using a stairlift, you can protect your body and your joints, allowing you to remain healthy and mobile for longer, thus independent for longer.
Try to be open minded and remember this when first using your stairlift.
Follow the Proper Usage Guidance
When starting to use your stairlift, it’s important that you do so properly. Make sure you familiarise yourself with the usage instructions and guidelines, so that you don’t break the stairlift or do anything that is unsafe for you or others.
Common things to bear in mind include:
- Using the provided seatbelt and armrests
- Don’t operate when someone else (including pets) is on the stairs
- Stay up to date with services and maintenance
- Don’t exceed the weight limit or have two people use the stairlift at the same time
Focus on the Positives
It’s natural to feel a little disheartened at requiring the use of a stairlift, but it’s okay to need the help. One of the ways you can hopefully feel better about using a stairlift is by trying to focus on the positive impact it can have on your life.
Stairlifts offer plenty of benefits. Firstly, whilst it may not be in the same way as you’re used to, a stairlift allows you to maintain your independence and carry out tasks on your own, which can be vital for supporting your overall quality of life.
They can also have a beneficial effect on your health. If you struggle with pain in your joints when walking up and down the stairs, then this can have a knock-on effect on your mental health and also take a physical toll on your body throughout the day. Stairlifts let you navigate the stairs without this stress on your joints, which can ultimately leave you feeling happier and healthier.
Bespoke Stairlifts in Shrewsbury
If a home stairlift is ultimately the best solution for you, then we can offer you bespoke solutions that meet your needs here at Alfix.
To discuss your requirements and learn more about the solutions we can offer you, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.