Thursday 7 August 2008

The Advantages of Stair Chairs

It is not uncommon for people to have difficulty using the stairs as they age. Things like arthritis and muscular diseases can make it very dangerous to use the stairs. This is in large part do to the terrific hazard a fall down the stairs can present. Many people, who have not heard about stair chairs, might be tempted to avoid the part of their house that uses the stairs or even sell their home in order to buy something that does not have stairs. These drastic measures can easily be avoided though if you choose to invest in a stair chair.


A stair chair, or stair lift as it is commonly called, provides a very important and valiant service for those who are mobility challenged. It is like always having someone there to help you up the stairs, except instead of only lending an arm, like a person would, a stair chair literary carries you up the stairs. In most cases a track is attached directly to the staircase and a chair is then attached to the track. This chair, or car, is then sent up and down the track by using an attached remote control.


These devices usually support around 300 pounds, but there are several models that have a much higher weight capacity. These models are called heavy duty stair lifts and are designed to support more weight and feature specially reinforced seats, armrests, and footrests. One model, the AmeriGlide Heavy Duty Stair Lift, is well known for its durability and dependability.


Many of today's stair lifts are battery powered. They are still plugged into a wall, but this simply charges the battery and the unit instead always relies on the batteries for its power. These types of units are great if you live in an area that has frequent power disruptions and also provides peace of mind because you will never be left stranded on the stairs. You can also purchase an AC stair lift, which is not battery powered. AC stair lifts will not function if the power goes out, but cost less and do not require that you periodically replace the batteries. While the battery replacement is infrequent and relatively inexpensive, usually around $40, it is an added expense that must be considered when purchasing a battery powered stair lift.


Stair lifts are a great way for people to ensure that they or a loved one will always be able to safely use the stairs.


Sean Noughtly is a writer and contributor for ameriglide.com. If you would like to learn more about heavy duty stair lifts or other types of stair lifts, visit AmeriGlide today.


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