As we grow older and our mobility declines, the fear of falling down the stairs can be a very real one, for both individuals and their families. However, once you start considering the possibility of installing a stairlift or other mobility product, it can be rather daunting given the technicalities it can involve. Craig Dunnage, Director, Dolphin Lifts UK, gives some handy hints and tips on how to choose a mobility product to meet your requirements.
“We strongly recommend you take the advice of a professional who has experience in the field, such as an Occupational Therapist who is usually based in the social services department at your local council,” said Craig. “They will have experience of a wide range of equipment, but more importantly they will be able to offer professional advice, taking your medical and physical needs.”
Once the advice has been taken into consideration, it is time to think about funding. It is great if you can fund the stairlift or hoist yourself, but if you cannot, there are a number of options available. Craig commented: “You can apply for funding from your local council if you live in a council or housing association property. Home Improvement, Housing Repair and Disabled Facility Grants are available to people that live in their own home – more detailed information on the grant system and how to apply can be found on www.direct.gov.uk. In general terms Disabled Facilities Grants are means tested, so the application process can take a while.
“You can also ask for assistance from some charities if you are unable to fund the purchase yourself,” added Craig. “SSAFA (for ex-servicemen and their families) has been found to be particularly helpful, as have former employers’ benevolent funds. In addition, support groups and OTs can assist with searching for funding so make sure you speak to them too.”
Whatever product you go for, make sure you get comparative quotes from several sources including independent companies who offer a range of products and manufacturers who only offer their own. Christian Dunnage, Director, Dolphin Mobility, warns of ‘We will not be beaten on price offers’: “Often the starting price can be hundreds if not thousands of pounds more than you should have to pay. Typically these companies will try and get a sale at the high price, only dropping if they are challenged to match a price. By doing your homework on the telephone and internet before a representative calls, you can save a significant amount of money.”
In addition, everyone’s requirements are different and there are many manufacturers of stairlifts, hoists and other mobility products who all have a variety of options that have been designed for specific mobility issues. Christian added: “It is important when buying a lift or hoist of any sort, to seek information and advice from someone, like us here at Dolphin, who has expert knowledge and experience of a variety of different products to ensure you are getting the best one for your needs.”
Dolphin Stairlifts have a number of showrooms throughout the UK with products on show from the leading manufacturers such as Stannah Stairlifts, Wessex Lifts, Thyssen, Handimove and Handicare. Visit the Dolphin Lifts website to see how much stairlifts cost.
About Dolphin Mobility Ltd
Dolphin Mobility is part of the Dolphin Lifts Group, specialist in the supply of products for the disabled and the leading independent suppliers of stairlifts in the UK. Dolphin supply, install and maintain stairlifts, step lifts, hoists, wheelchair lifts and pool lifts.
