In this post, we delve into the significance of stair lifts as a solution for maintaining Independence, particularly for older adults who wish to age in place. According to a study by the National Institute on Ageing (NIA) conducted with TELUS, 91 percent of Canadians desire to live independently at home for as long as possible. This sentiment is even stronger among those aged 65 and older, with 100 percent of the surveyed population expressing their intention to support themselves in their homes.
As we age, certain daily activities become increasingly challenging. Tasks such as navigating our communities, shopping for groceries, preparing meals, maintaining our homes, and performing personal care activities like cleaning, dressing, and feeding ourselves can become difficult. This underscores the necessity for mobility solutions that promote Independence. One such solution is the stair lift.
What is a Stair Lift, and How Does it Promote Independence?
A stair lift is a motorized chair that moves along a rail mounted on the stairs, allowing individuals to quickly glide up and down a flight of stairs. This device is invaluable for older adults and those with mobility issues, enabling them to access different levels of their homes safely and independently without needing assistance from family members. The rail is installed close to the wall, minimizing space usage and allowing others to use the stairs without obstruction.
Operating a stair lift is straightforward. Users sit in their seats, fasten their seatbelts, and use a switch or toggle to move up or down the stairs. Many stairlifts have a swivel seat, which rotates 90 degrees at the top of the stairs to facilitate easy entry and exit. Additionally, stair lifts are designed with footrests and armrests for added support, which can be folded away when unused. They can be customized to fit any staircase, whether straight or curved and are available for indoor and outdoor use.
How Do Stair Lifts Help Older Adults Remain Injury-Free?
Falls are the leading cause of injuries among seniors. Age Safe Canada reports that approximately one-third of adults aged 65 or older experience falls in their homes annually, with half of those over 80 falling yearly. These falls often lead to injury, long-term disability, and a premature loss of Independence. Falls are also the leading cause of fatal injuries and the most common reason for nonfatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults.
“More than half the injury-related hospitalizations in Canada are for seniors 65+, and falls account for over 81% of these hospitalizations,” states Age Safe Canada. It is estimated that 20-30% of seniors experience at least one fall each year, and nearly 20% of those who fall will die within a year. Falls are thus the primary cause of injury-related deaths among seniors in Canada.
Installing a stair lift significantly reduces the risk of falls on stairs. By providing a safe and reliable means of ascending and descending stairs, a stair lift eliminates one of the most dangerous activities for seniors. This is crucial for maintaining safety and Independence, especially for those with mobility challenges.
Additional Benefits of Stair Lifts
Stair lifts offer several other benefits beyond preventing falls. They help conserve energy for older adults. Climbing stairs multiple times a day can be exhausting. Still, a stair lift saves seniors energy for other activities, enabling them to remain more active and engaged in their daily lives. For example, carrying laundry upstairs can be strenuous; with a stair lift, individuals can easily transport laundry baskets without physical strain.
Stairlifts also enhance social connections. Stairs can be a significant barrier to social interactions, particularly in homes where living areas are on different floors. A stair lift enables easy access to all parts of the house, ensuring that seniors can interact with family and friends without restriction. This can improve their quality of life by allowing them to participate fully in social and family activities.
Moreover, stair lifts can alleviate pain associated with certain health conditions. “For those with limited mobility, electric stair lifts can help reduce the risks associated with navigating stairs and enable someone to stay in a multi-level home,” says Molly Wigand on Forbes.com. Whether dealing with disabilities, arthritis, dizziness, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), obesity, or recovering from surgery or injuries, stair lifts can significantly benefit users, caregivers, and family members.
Why Should Older Adults Have Stair Lifts in Their Homes?
The National Institute on Ageing reveals that about one-quarter of Canadians aged 75 and older have at least one unmet need concerning their daily living activities. The number might be higher, as many seniors may need to be aware of available support or how to access them. A stair lift is an essential support system that ensures mobility issues do not prevent participation in home activities.
At Advantage Home Health Solutions, we are committed to providing comprehensive information about our stairlifts to help you choose the best option for your needs. With our stair lifts, you can maintain your Independence and safely navigate your home, enjoying the freedom to live on your terms. Whether your staircase is straight or curved, indoor or outdoor, we have a solution that fits your requirements, ensuring safety and comfort for all.
