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Sometimes the first signs that stairs are becoming more difficult aren’t obvious.

At A+ StairLifts of Pittsburgh, we talk with families who have started noticing little changes around the house. Maybe Mom doesn’t carry the laundry upstairs anymore, or Dad leaves things at the bottom of the steps for someone else to take up. Groceries get carried in less at a time, or trips to the basement happen less often than they used to.

None of these things automatically means it’s time for a stairlift. But when everyday routines start changing because of the stairs, it may be worth paying attention.

Small Changes Can Add Up

Most people don’t suddenly stop using their stairs. The changes tend to happen gradually. In addition to the examples above, someone might hold onto the handrail a little tighter, take more time going from one floor to another, or stop carrying things altogether while using the steps. Eventually, avoiding the stairs can simply become part of the daily routine.

Family members are often the first to pick up on changes. Often, it’s these everyday small changes, not one major event, that starts the conversation about a stairlift.

It’s About Continuing to Use Your Home

Considering a stairlift isn’t about giving up independence. It’s about being able to continue using the home you or a family member enjoys. For instance, bedrooms may be upstairs, but the washer and dryer are in the basement. Favorite rooms may be less accessible.

When the stairs start getting in the way of normal routines, a stairlift may be one option for making it easier to get from one level of the home to another.

Every Staircase Is Different

Anyone who has spent time in Pittsburgh knows how different one house can be from the next. There are older two-story homes, split-levels, narrow staircases and plenty of layouts that don’t fit neatly into one category.

That’s one reason A+ StairLifts of Pittsburgh offers in-home consultations. We can see the staircase firsthand, talk about what’s becoming difficult, and determine which options (if any) make sense for the home.

Another common concern is whether adding a stairlift means making major changes to the house. Most often, it doesn’t.

The installation itself, however, is something that should be handled professionally. The stairlift needs to be properly selected for the staircase, fitted correctly and installed by someone with the experience to do the job right. The goal is a clean, professional installation that works properly without unnecessarily disrupting the home.

You Don’t Have to Wait Until the Stairs Become a Serious Problem

There’s nothing wrong with asking questions before you’re ready to make a decision.

In fact, looking into stairlifts earlier can give you more time to understand the options, find out what will work with your staircase and decide what makes sense for you or your family.

You may decide you don’t need one yet. That’s fine, too. At least you’ll know what’s available if things change down the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

What changes should I pay attention to?

Things like using the handrail more than before, avoiding certain floors, no longer carrying laundry or other items on the stairs, or simply taking more time to go up and down can all be worth noticing.

What if I have an older or unusual staircase?

That’s exactly why seeing the staircase in person is helpful. A+ StairLifts of Pittsburgh can evaluate the layout and explain which stairlift options may work for your home.

Will my home need to be remodeled?

Most stairlifts can be professionally installed without major changes to the home. What is required will depend on the staircase, the equipment and the homeowner’s individual needs.

Have Questions About Stairlifts?

A+ StairLifts of Pittsburgh has been helping Pittsburgh area homeowners with stairlift solutions since 2009.

If you’ve noticed that you or someone in your family has started doing things differently because of the stairs, you don’t have to wait for it to become a bigger concern before asking questions. It can start with a phone conversation!

To begin the conversation or schedule a FREE in-home consultation, call (412) 823-3222 or visit www.aplusstairlifts.net.