How Do You Use a Stairlift? A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re new to the world of stairlifts, it’s completely normal to feel a little unsure about how they work. Whether you’re considering installing a stairlift for yourself or are looking into options for a family member, understanding how to use a stairlift safely and confidently is an important part of your decision.
At Leodis Stairlifts, we guide customers across Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle and the north of England through the process every day and the good news is, modern stairlifts are designed to be simple, safe and easy to use, even for a first time stairlift user!
Getting Seated on a Stairlift Safely
To begin using a stairlift, the first step is to sit comfortably and securely in the stairlift chair. You or the user will need to:
- Position yourself fully in the seated position;
- Ensure your back is supported, your arms are on the armrest and your feet are on the footrest;
- Fasten yourself in by securing the seatbelt before moving.
Using the Stairlifts Controls
Stairlifts are operated using a simple control, typically located on the armrest of the stairlift. To commence movement:
- Press and hold the control in the direction of travel (up or down);
- The stairlift will begin moving smoothly along the stairlift rail;
- Release the control to stop the stairlift from continuing.
Some stairlift models also include remote controls; allowing you to call the stairlift to your position at the top or bottom of the stairs. This is especially useful if more than one person uses the stairlift in the household.
Note: most stairlifts are battery-powered, meaning the controls will continue to work, even in the event of a power cut and there’s no need to worry about batteries, as the battery simply recharges itself when it’s parked!
Travelling Up and Down the Stairs
Once moving, the stairlift will travel at a controlled speed. Modern stairlifts (whether it’s a straight stairlift, a curved stairlift or an outdoor stairlift) are often designed with smooth start / stop motion – there shouldn’t be any jerky movements. They also have safety sensors that stop the stairlift if something obstructs the stairlift rail. You should remain seated upright on the stairlift, with your feet on the footrest throughout the journey and with all this combined, you’ll be sure to have reliable and safe movement between floors.
Getting Off a Stairlift at the Top or Bottom
When you reach the end of the stairlift rail, the stairlift will stop automatically. Many stairlift models include a swivel seat, allowing you to turn towards the landing with more ease. You’ll need to unfasten your seatbelt and stand up carefully; using the armrests to support yourself. The process of using a stairlift is designed to reduce the risk of falls, including when getting on or off.
Folding the Stairlift Away
When a stairlift is not in use, it’s handy to be able to fold parts of it away to save space at home – this is possible with most stairlifts. Typically, the seat, footrest and armrests can all be folded up, helping to keep the staircase clear for other users. This is particularly important in homes with narrower staircases, which are especially common in new builds or terraced houses, of which we see many in Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle and beyond.
Using a Stairlift with Confidence
The most important thing to remember is that stairlifts are specifically designed to be safe and reliable – they are installed to make life easier for their user!
At Leodis Stairlifts, one of our professional engineers will demonstrate exactly how to use a stairlift and answer any queries you may have, during the installation of the stairlift. So, if you’re exploring stairlifts in Manchester, stairlifts in Leeds, stairlifts in Newcastle or stairlifts in the north of England, we’d welcome the opportunity to show you how a stairlift could work in your home.
The best place to start is by booking your free home survey, in which one of the Leodis team will visit you to explore your options and measure your staircase. We hope this visit will give you the chance to understand everything clearly, before making a decision. Contact us today to book your free home survey and receive no obligation advice, a competitive quote and no pressure sales!
