Aging in place is a common concern across all races, addresses, and incomes. Everyone wants to live safely and comfortably at home for as long as possible. Living at home is critical to overall mental and emotional health, both of which play a vital role in maintaining physical health. If you’re getting older and you own your own home, you’re probably already considering the changes you might need to make in order to remain home throughout your senior years. One of those changes is the stairs.
Understanding the Problem
While you might be inclined to relegate stairs to challenge status only in cases of illness or injury, it’s important to understand that these are not the only situations where stairs pose a problem. Seniors of all abilities struggle with stairs. Why?
- Eyesight. As eyes age, they lose depth perception. Without clear depth perception, stairs are very difficult to navigate safely, especially in low light.
- Balance. Older folks struggle with balance. Sure, a handrail can help with that, but what if you need to carry something up or down the stairs like laundry or books?
- Pain. Old joints ache. It’s just the way things are. Going up and down the stairs is hard on knees and other joints. While you might be able to manage it once or twice a day, knowing that climbing or descending the stairs is painful will inhibit your ability to access all of your home freely day in and day out.
- Fatigue. Let’s face it: going up and down the stairs is work. For seniors, one trip can be exhausting. Why waste precious energy on the stairs? Best to save it for activities you want to do.
Finding a Solution
No one should be afraid of their stairs. Aging in place requires safe and free access to the entire home, and that means the challenge of the stairs needs to be addressed. One effective solution is a stairlift.
A stairlift is a simple system that consists of a motorized chair that moves along a rail system mounted to the stair treads. With a stairlift, access to all levels of the home is reestablished, allowing for more movement and more enjoyment of everyday activities. Chairlifts eliminate the barriers and restore independence.
Age in Place with a Stairlift
Every situation is different. If you decide you’d like more information about a stairlift, call your local dealer to discuss your options and get curved and straight stairlift cost estimates. Stairlifts are a practical solution for many seniors wishing to age in place. Find out more today.
