Stairs are one of the most common obstacles faced by people who are disabled in some way. Even individuals who do not require a wheel chair may be unable to climb stairs without pain or weakness. The best way to deal with this problem in a home setting is to install a stair lift. In it's most simple form, a stair lift consists of a chair mounted on a rail. People who want to go up or down the stairs sit in the chair which moves at their command.
Home stairways can come in several configurations. A straight stairway is the most common layout. If the stairs in your home have no bend, no curves and no landing at any point on the stairway, then you can provide increased access at home using a straight stair lift.
A straight stair lift is usually the easiest lift type to install. In many cases, they can be installed by the manufacturer in only a few hours. Most stair lift manufacturers offer installation as one of their services. Even if it's not included in the base price of the stair lift, it is probably a good idea to opt for their services. That way if there's any problem, no one will question whether or not the installation was at fault. Installers from the manufacturer will also test the unit before leaving and provide basic training in its operation and maintenance.
With most stair lift companies, you have the option of choosing a unit powered by batteries full-time or a unit that uses your home's main electricity supply. Battery-operated straight stair lifts have the advantage of working all the time, even if there's a power outage. This might be the most dependable option as long as the lift doesn't get a lot of frequent use. (Frequent use may reduce short-term battery power.) Battery-operated stair lifts are also much quieter when operating.
Straight stair lifts powered by the electrical mains are at least as reliable as your electricity supply. If you're concerned about the user getting "stuck" between floors during a power cut, most manufacturers offer a battery backup that kicks in automatically.
The rails of a straight stair lift are almost always fitted directly to the treads of the stairs. This minimizes any wall damage or interference with your home decor. If any portion of your stairway is weak or damaged, be sure to check with the installer to see if it will cause any future problem.
Straight stair lifts are available for about $2,000. This may seem like a high price at first, but it will free you from having to plan your daily activities to avoid going up or down your stairs too many times. If someone at home is completely unable to climb stairs without assistance, not only will it restore their freedom, it may help avoid a move to a one-story home.
It's possible that if price is a serious barrier, you may be able to find a used or reconditioned straight stair lift. If you have a short term need, some companies rent straight stair lifts. Normally, only straight stair lifts are available for rental or purchasing used--a curved stair lift is almost always custom-built for a particular stairway.
If you have a straight stairway at home, your best bet for providing second story access is a straight stair lift