Stair Lift Safety: Tips for Proper Use and Maintenance

Did you know that approximately 15.7 million Americans over the age of 65 have some form of disability? In addition to this, about two-thirds of them have difficulty walking or climbing stairs. The good news is that some of this difficulty can easily be overcome with the help of stair lift installation in Morris County, NJ. These helpful mobility aids have the potential to help older adults and those with disabilities regain some of their independence by making it safe for them to navigate stairs. However, it is also important to know how to do it safely when using a stair lift! Let’s take a look at some tips for safe use and maintenance following your stair lift installation in Morris County, NJ.

1 - Fold The Seat When Not In Use

During your stair lift installation in Morris County, NJ, you may be shown how the seat of your new stair lift can be folded when not in use. This is excellent if other household members use the stairs, as it keeps the seat tucked out of the way. There are about one million staircase-related injuries every year across all demographics, so removing any potential obstacles to reduce the risk of an accident makes sense. Try to get into the habit of folding your stairlift seat when it is not in use so that it doesn’t become a hazard to others. It is also important to keep the stairs clear of any other potential obstructions, as these are not only a trip hazard but they could also impede the movement of your stairlift, potentially causing damage.

2 - Stair Lifts Are Built For One!

Another important safety tip is to remember that your stair lift is only intended to carry one passenger at a time! Letting your grandchild hop into your lap for a ride up or down the stairs might be tempting, but this is not safe. The device is not intended to carry more than one passenger at a time. It is also important to note the weight limit that your chair lift has. During your stair lift installation in Morris County, NJ, you can ask what the weight limit for your specific model is, but even if holding a child is under the weight limit, it is still not a safe practice since they would not have a seatbelt. That leads us to a bonus safety tip - always wear your seatbelt! Falling from the chair while it is in motion could result in a severe injury.

3 - Understand the Proper Position

In order to make using your chair lift as safe as possible, you must learn the proper positioning while traveling. During your stair lift installation in Morris County. NJ, you will be taken through a demonstration of how your specific model works. However, as a general rule of thumb, most chair lifts will have very similar safety recommendations. These might include:

• Making sure the seat is locked in place
• Sitting back in the seat with your back against the backrest
• Keeping your feet on the footrest, positioned as far back as is comfortable
• Fasten the seat belt securely before moving off

Keep Up With Routine Maintenance & Repairs

After your stair lift installation in Morris County, NJ, it is important to stay on top of routine maintenance and to have repairs done as necessary. You should not attempt to repair your stair lift by yourself. Always call in a professional stair lift technician. However, there are some easy maintenance tips that you can follow to help keep it in good working order. Some of these tips include:

• Keep the Stair Lift Track Clear of Obstructions - Any debris or obstruction on the track of your stairlift could interfere with it moving freely on the track. It is good practice to check the track daily and remove potential obstructions. This is especially important if any pets or young children are in the home.
• Clean the Track - It is also a good idea to clean the track on a regular basis. It only takes wiping it down with a duster or a slightly damp cloth. You can also wipe down the seat at the same time. This should be done approximately once each week.
• Vacuum Around The Stair Lift - Besides cleaning the track, it is also good to vacuum around the stairs, rails, and behind the seat regularly to ensure dust doesn’t get built up on the mechanical parts. This should be done weekly.
• Don’t Unplug the Battery - It is important not to unplug the stair lift, even while cleaning it. Unplugging the battery can have a negative impact and is best avoided.
• Keep the Track Lubricated - If the track is well lubricated, it will help the stair lift to operate smoothly. This should be done once every three months. Ask during your stair lift installation in Morris County, NJ, which is the best lubricant to suit your particular stair lift.

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Helping You Keep Your Independence at Home

AIP Mobility Plus is a Veteran owned business in Morris County, NJ that is dedicated to providing you with safer mobility at home helping you to keep your independence and stay in your own home for longer. We can provide a range of options to make your home more accessible with stair lifts, ramps, and bathroom safety options.

Call 973-607-3211 or email info@aipmobilityplus.com.