Helping Your Parents Stay Safe at Home: A Guide to Stairlifts
As we age, everyday tasks like climbing stairs can become challenging and even dangerous.
If your parent is struggling with mobility, a stairlift can be a life-changing solution, allowing them to stay safe and independent in their own home. However, we understand that broaching the subject or navigating the process can feel overwhelming—especially if your parent is resistant to change or not tech-savvy enough to research solutions themselves.
This guide is here to help you, the concerned son or daughter, take the first steps toward finding the right stairlift for your parent. We’ll walk you through the process and offer tips on how to approach the conversation with care and sensitivity.
Why a Stairlift Might Be the Right Solution
Stairlifts are designed to provide a safe, comfortable, and reliable way for your parent to move between floors in their home. Here’s why they’re worth considering:
Safety
Reduces the risk of falls and injuries on the stairs.
Independence
Allows your parent to move freely without relying on others.
Comfort
Modern stairlifts are quiet, easy to use, and tailored to individual needs.
Peace of Mind
Gives you and your family confidence that your parent is safe at home.
How to Start the Conversation About a Stairlift
Talking to a parent about mobility issues can be delicate. They may feel embarrassed, defensive, or resistant to change. Here are some tips to help you approach the subject with empathy and understanding:
Choose the Right Moment
Bring up the topic when your parent is relaxed and in a good mood. Avoid times when they’re stressed or tired.
Focus on Safety and Independence
Frame the conversation around their well-being and your concern for their safety. For example: “I’ve noticed the stairs are getting harder for you, and I worry about you falling. A stairlift could help you stay safe and keep your independence.”
Listen to Their Concerns
Your parent may have worries about cost, installation, or how a stairlift will look in their home. Listen patiently and address their concerns one by one.
Involve Them in the Decision
Reassure them that they’re in control. Let them know you’re there to help, not to make decisions for them.
Highlight the Benefits
Share stories or testimonials from others who’ve benefited from stairlifts. Sometimes hearing about positive experiences can ease their worries.
The Step-by-Step Process of Getting a Stairlift
Step 1: Engage an Occupational Therapist (OT)
An Occupational Therapist can assess your parent’s mobility needs and recommend the most suitable stairlift solution. They provide professional guidance, making the process smoother and ensuring your parent gets the best fit for their home and lifestyle.
Additionally, engaging an OT can remove you from the potentially awkward position of appearing too pushy. Because the OT is a neutral third party, their assessment carries impartial authority, which can make it easier for your parent to accept the need for a stairlift. Instead of feeling pressured by a family member, they receive expert advice from a trained professional who is focused solely on their well-being.
We have access to a list of trusted OTs and can help you find one in your area.
Step 2: Arrange a Free Home Stairlift Survey
Contact us to book a free, no-obligation home survey. A specialist will visit your parent’s home to assess their needs, recommend the best stairlift, and provide a detailed quote.
This step is completely free and helps you understand the options available.
Step 3: Explore Grant Funding Options
Stairlifts are a valuable investment, and financial assistance, if required, is available. Your parent may qualify for a grant of up to €8,000 through the Housing Adaptation Grant for Older People and Disabled People.
We can guide you through the application process and help you download the correct form.
Step 4: Choose the Right Stairlift
Based on the home survey, you’ll receive recommendations for stairlifts that suit your parent’s home and mobility needs.
We offer a range of models, including straight and curved stairlifts, to fit any staircase.
Step 5: Installation and Aftercare
Once you’ve chosen a stairlift, our team will handle the installation quickly and professionally.
We also provide ongoing maintenance and support to ensure the stairlift remains in perfect working order.
Financial Assistance: Grants Up to €8,000
Many families are unaware that financial help is available to cover the cost of a stairlift. Here’s what you need to know:
The Housing Adaptation Grant for Older People and Disabled People can provide up to €8,000 toward the cost of a stairlift.
The application process is straightforward, and we can help you navigate it. Download the application form from our website to get started.
Why Choose Us?
Free Home Survey
No obligation, no pressure—just honest advice tailored to your parent’s needs.
Trusted Occupational Therapist Network
We can connect you with a qualified OT to assess your parent’s needs.
Expert Advice:
Our team has years of experience helping families find the right stairlift solutions.
Quality Products
We offer reliable, high-quality stairlifts from trusted manufacturers.
Ongoing Support
From installation to maintenance, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Take the First Step Today
You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Let us help you find the perfect stairlift solution for your parent.
Call us today to book a free home survey or download the grant application form from our website. Together, we can make your parent’s home safer and more accessible.
