Perch stairlifts offer a practical solution for individuals with mobility issues, providing a safe and efficient way to navigate stairs in smaller homes or spaces. This article will help you:
1 – Understand the importance of considering perch stairlifts as an alternative to traditional stairlifts.
2 – Highlight key learning outcomes regarding the benefits and installation of perch stairlifts.
3 – Cover main topics including the design, operation, and safety features of perch stairlifts.
4 – Discuss the benefits of understanding these topics for making an informed decision.
5 – Guide on actions to take post-reading to further explore perch stairlift options.
1 – Perch stairlifts are designed for smaller homes or spaces, offering a discreet and compact solution that takes up less space than traditional stairlifts.
2 – They are more accessible to install and typically more affordable, making them an excellent solution for those who find sitting difficult or have limited space.
3 – The article covers the technical specifications and unique features of perch stairlifts, including their ease of use for individuals with mobility issues, ideal suitability for narrow staircases, and their safety and security features.
4 – It highlights the affordability and value of perch stairlifts, presenting them as a cost-effective solution for enhancing home accessibility.
5 – Alternatives to perch stairlifts, such as turn-and-go stairlifts, home elevators, and wheelchair lifts, are discussed for those needing different solutions.
6 – Choosing the right perch stairlift based on individual needs and preferences is detailed, including considerations for straight versus curved stairlifts, weight and height, and physical limitations.
7 – Finally, the article encourages readers to consult with stairlift specialists and consider second-hand or refurbished stairlifts to save money while meeting their mobility needs.
The main difference between a perch stairlift and a traditional seated stairlift is that a perch stairlift does not require the user to be fully seated. Instead, you travel in a perching position.
This makes it an ideal solution for people with flexibility issues or restricted movement in their knee or hip joints who do not want to bend their knees more than necessary.
You use a perch stairlift by sitting on a small perch seat attached to the stairs via a track. The user sits in the chair and uses the controls to raise or lower the lift. A small motor in the chair’s base powers a perch seat. This motor powers the lift and allows the user to raise or lower the chair.
A geared strip is built into the track, connecting to and powering the motor to move the chair up and down.
Stairlifts can be battery-powered or plugged straight into your electricity supply via a standard wall socket. A battery-powered stairlift means you can still use the lift in case of a power cut. However, you will eventually have to replace the batteries after continual use.
Some models offer the best of both worlds and allow you to have a battery-powered lift but charge the battery by plugging the rail into the electricity supply. This way, your batteries will continually charge, but you won’t have to worry about being stranded during a power cut.
The cost of a perch stairlift will vary depending on your chosen model. They are typically more expensive than seated straight stairlifts but not as much as curved stairlifts.
You can expect to pay between £1,000 and £2,000 for a new perch stairlift. This is significantly cheaper than the cost of most traditional stairlifts, which can start at around £3,000
When it comes to maintaining your perch stairlift, there is also good news. Perch stairlifts require very little maintenance and typically only need to be serviced once a year. This is significantly less than the maintenance required for traditional stairlifts.
Perch stairlifts, including stand and perch stairlifts, offer several key benefits that directly impact the quality of life for users. Understanding these benefits can help potential buyers see the value in choosing a perching stairlift for their home.
Perching stairlifts are designed for individuals who find sitting down or standing up challenging. The perching position reduces strain on the knees and hips, making it an ideal solution for those with arthritis or other mobility issues. This design allows users to maintain a more upright position, which can be more comfortable for those with certain health conditions.
The compact design of perching stairlifts makes them perfect for homes with narrow staircases. Unlike traditional stairlifts, the slim profile of a perching stairlift minimizes the space used, ensuring the staircase remains accessible for other members of the household. This feature is particularly beneficial in older homes where stair width can be a limiting factor.
Perching stairlifts come equipped with a range of safety features designed to protect the user. These include non-slip surfaces, safety belts, and emergency stop buttons. Such features ensure that users feel secure and stable while using the stairlift, providing peace of mind for both the users and their families.
Compared to other mobility solutions, perching stairlifts offer an affordable option for enhancing home accessibility. Their cost-effectiveness does not compromise on quality or safety, making perching stairlifts a valuable investment for those looking to improve their mobility without significant financial burden.
By choosing a perching stairlift, users can enjoy greater independence and comfort in their homes, ensuring they can navigate their living spaces safely and efficiently.
When considering the addition of a perch stairlift to your home, understanding the technical specifications and unique features available is crucial. This knowledge will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs and space.
Perch stairlifts are designed with specific technical features to accommodate users with limited mobility or narrow staircases. These stairlifts typically offer:
Most perch stairlifts can comfortably support users up to 120kg, ensuring a wide range of individuals can use them safely.
The lifts operate gently, usually around 0.15 meters per second, allowing for a smooth and secure ascent or descent.
They are powered by rechargeable batteries, ensuring operation even during power outages. The charging system is continuous along the track, keeping the lift charged and ready to use.
Equipped with safety belts, obstruction sensors, and emergency stop buttons, these stairlifts prioritise user safety at every level.
Beyond the basic specifications, perch stairlifts offer unique features that set them apart:
The slim design minimizes the space used for narrow staircases, leaving ample room for others to use the staircase.
The perch seat’s height can be adjusted to accommodate users of different statures, enhancing comfort and safety.
Some models have a powered footrest that can be folded away when not in use, reducing tripping hazards and saving space.
Select models offer a range of upholstery colours, allowing you to match the stairlift to your home decor seamlessly.
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Perch stairlifts should come with several safety features to ensure that you are just as secure while riding as you would be on a seated stair lift.
The seat should have a non-slip surface to prevent slipping while the lift is in use.
All perch stairlifts should come with a footrest to keep your feet safe and secure and provide additional support for the rest of your joints as you travel up the stairs.
Some models will have a powered footrest that allows you to automatically fold up the footrest at the touch of a button rather than making you bend down to do it manually. This further protects those who find bending painful or have restricted movement in the knee or hip joints.
A retractable seatbelt should be included to keep you secured to the seat while the lift is in motion. Some models will have an inbuilt function that prevents the stair lift from moving off until the retractable seat belt has been applied.
The lift should have safety sensors that make it stop automatically when it hits an obstacle on the stairs, thus keeping you safe and secure.
There should also be an emergency stop button in case of any unexpected problems.
The seat height should be adjustable to ensure that you are comfortable and secure while riding.
Choosing the right perch stairlift involves more than selecting a model that fits your staircase. Customisation options play a crucial role in ensuring the stairlift meets your mobility needs and blends seamlessly with your home’s interior. Here’s a closer look at the aesthetic and functional customisation options available.
The appearance of your stairlift can be just as important as its functionality. Many perch stairlift models offer a range of upholstery colours to match or complement your home decor. Options may include neutral tones such as beige or grey and more vibrant choices like red or blue. Selecting the right colour can make the stairlift a subtle addition to your home rather than an obtrusive element.
Beyond aesthetics, functional features can be tailored to suit your specific needs:
Choose between manual or powered swivel options for easier dismount at the top or bottom of the stairs. A powered swivel seat is particularly beneficial for those with limited mobility, allowing for a smoother transition from sitting to standing.
For narrow staircases, a foldable footrest can make a significant difference. It reduces the space the stairlift occupies when not in use, making the staircase more accessible for others. Manual options offer simplicity, while powered footrests provide convenience, folding away with the touch of a button.
Depending on the layout of your home, you might need a hinged rail to avoid blocking doorways or corridors at the bottom of the stairs. Some models offer a manual hinge, but for ease of use, a powered hinge automatically lifts the rail out of the way when the stairlift is not in use.
By exploring these customization options, you can ensure your perch stairlift is not only a practical mobility solution but also a personalized addition to your home that reflects your style and meets your unique needs.
If a perch stairlift is not suitable for you, for example, because you need help standing for the journey upstairs, there are a few other options to consider.
These seated stairlifts use a particular track that allows the lift to manoeuvre around tight bends better. They have a swivel rocker seat, making it easier for the seated user to get in and out of the lift by twisting the seat around to face the landing at each end.
A home elevator is the best option if you have more of a budget and live on more than one level. This will allow you to travel between floors without having to manoeuvre yourself into a stairlift.
Portable wheelchair lifts are a good option if you need to transport your wheelchair up and down the stairs and yourself. They come in indoor and outdoor models and can easily be installed.
When it comes to perch stairlifts, you must know how to choose the most reliable stairlifts for you. You need to consider several factors, such as whether you need a straight stairlift or a curved one, your weight and height, and whether you have any physical limitations.
You must also decide which type of stairlift you prefer- a seated or perch model. A seated model is more traditional and is best if you cannot stand up the stairs. A perch model is an ideal choice if you find sitting painful and prefer standing to prevent unnecessary extra movement in the knee.
Make sure you talk to some stairlift specialists before making your decision, and look at second-hand and refurbished stairlifts if you are keen to save a little bit extra money.
Understanding the installation process and the aftercare services available is essential for making an informed decision about perch stairlifts. This section aims to provide clear insights into what you can expect.
Installing a perch stairlift is a straightforward process that typically can be completed within a few hours, ensuring minimal disruption to your home. The process involves:
A professional surveyor will visit your home to assess your staircase and discuss your specific needs, ensuring the stairlift meets your requirements and space.
On the installation day, trained technicians will fit the stairlift to your staircase, not the wall, which means no structural changes are needed in your home.
After installation, the technician will demonstrate how to use the stairlift safely and answer any questions you may have.
After your stairlift is installed, comprehensive aftercare services ensure you continue to benefit from your investment:
Most perch stairlifts have a warranty covering any manufacturing defects or technical issues, providing peace of mind.
Regular maintenance, such as keeping the track clean and ensuring the batteries are charged, will help prolong the life of your stairlift.
Annual servicing by a qualified technician is recommended to ensure your stairlift remains in optimal working condition.
Should you encounter any issues or have questions, customer support is available to assist you, often including emergency call-out services.
This article has provided a comprehensive overview of perch stairlifts, highlighting:
1 – The design and operation of perch stairlifts make them suitable for smaller spaces and individuals with mobility issues.
2 – They are easier to install and affordable compared to traditional stairlifts.
3 – The technical specifications and unique features that accommodate users with limited mobility or narrow staircases.
4 – Safety features that ensure user security and stability.
5 – The cost-effectiveness of perch stairlifts to enhance home accessibility.
6 – Alternatives to perch stairlifts for those who may require different mobility solutions.
7 – The importance of consulting with stairlift specialists and considering second-hand or refurbished models to save money while meeting mobility needs.
You can contact an Acorn stair lift specialist in one of 3 ways: Monday to Thursday : 8am – 7pm Friday : 8am – 5:30pm Saturday & Sunday : 9am – 5pm Leave your contact details below, and one of the Acorn team will give you a call to discuss your needs. Please note that Acorn Stairlifts undertake all calls.
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Tom is a Content Writer and Editor for UK Care Guide, having previously acted as Head of Online for the Manchester Historian, and also the former editor for The Peterloo Institute. Tom is a graduate of the University of Manchester with a BA (Hons) History degree. His particular specialisms include writing on issues relating to later life (e.g. stairlifts, live-in care) and elderly care, having previously worked in a care capacity.
Meet the author
Tom Walker
The main difference between a perch stairlift and a traditional seated stairlift is that a perch stairlift does not require the user to be fully seated. Instead, you travel in a perching position. This makes it an ideal solution for people with flexibility issues or restricted movement in their knee or hip joints who do not want to bend their knees more than necessary.
Most staircases are considered narrow if they have a width of less than 28 inches. This is because the standard width for a traditional stair lift is 30 inches. If your staircase has a width of less than 28 inches, you will most likely need a perch stairlift.
The good news is that perch stairlifts require less maintenance or service than traditional stairlifts. They typically only need to be cleaned every six to twelve months, depending on how often they are used.
Most perch stairlifts have a lifespan of around ten years. This means that, despite their high price, perch stairlifts are pretty a cost-effective option in the long run.
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