For the majority of us who live in multi-level houses, the act of going up and down the stairs is a daily routine we take for granted. For older adults and individuals with mobility challenges, however, navigating steps can be a daily struggle.
Do you live with someone who suffers from chronic pain, is nursing an injury or has progressive health conditions? If so, you’re surely aware that stairs can often pose a serious risk for falls, loss of independence and diminished quality of life. By installing a stair lift in the home, many of these issues can be met with much greater safety. Let’s take a look at the top ailments a stair lift can help people overcome.
Arthritis and joint pain.
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are among the most common reasons older adults experience difficulty with stairs. These conditions cause joint inflammation, pain and stiffness. Most often, the knees and hips are significantly impacted. This makes each step a painful challenge. Sean Kelley of the Arthritis Foundation offers some sound stair-climbing advice to those with arthritis and joint pain.
“Go up with the good, down with the bad,” he advises, “When going up, lead with your strongest leg. When going down, lead with the weaker one. Always face forward. You’re much less stable when you’re turned sideways, especially if the staircase has no handrail, says Joseph Zeni, PhD, assistant professor of physical therapy at the University of Delaware.”
Balance disorders and vertigo.
Do you have a loved one who suffers from such conditions as vertigo, Meniere’s disease or other vestibular disorders? They can all make climbing stairs a dangerous endeavour. One misstep could lead to a fall with serious consequences.
As explained by BC’s Khalsa Physiotherapy Clinic, people with vertigo feel like the world is spinning even when they’re standing still. “ It often happens due to problems in the inner ear, which helps maintain balance,” says their site, “When the inner ear doesn’t work properly, the brain receives the wrong signals, causing dizziness and unsteadiness.”
Stroke recovery.
After a stroke, many individuals are left with partial paralysis, muscle weakness or limited coordination on one side of the body. Climbing stairs becomes not just difficult, but hazardous. Toronto’s C-Care Health Services urges those going through stroke recovery to make their homes safer zones.
“Wear flat shoes, avoid heals and narrow tight-fitted footwear,” instructs their website, “Use hand railings while climbing the stairs. Remove loose carpets and mats which may cause tripping. Take medication on time and keep an eye out for any changes in the sleep cycle or diet. Clear the path to bedroom, bathroom and kitchen for any unnecessary blockages.”
Install a stair lift today!
Other ailments that make stair-climbing dangerous include heart and lung conditions, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), sarcopenia and hip or knee replacement recovery. Whether temporary or chronic, these mobility limitations don’t need to signal the end of multi-level living. Stair lifts offer a dignified, easy-to-use solution that supports health, safety and independence.
At LifeCare Mobility Solutions, we provide expert installation of both straight and curved stair lifts across the Greater Toronto Area. We offer high-quality stair lifts from Access BDD, Handicare and Bruno. To learn all about them, please don’t hesitate to call us at 416-267-9800 or email us at info@lifecaremobility.ca. You may also contact us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
