A chairlift can offer independence to those with limited mobility, but the decision to implement a lift within your home can be a big one. There are many factors to consider before you dive into researching lifts, and the wealth of information available to you can be overwhelming. So, with this abundance of information, where do you start your research?
1. First, start at the beginning. Will your insurance cover a lift? This depends on your insurance policy, and unfortunately, there is no single yes or no answer across the board. But even if your insurance does not cover lifts, there are still options available to reduce your out of pocket expenses. Sources like grants or government funding programs may be available to you and your family.
2. Second, determine your situation. Is the chairlift going to be used indoors or outdoors? This is perhaps the easiest question to answer in the entire purchasing process. Determining whether your lift will be used indoors or outdoors will immediately eliminate certain lift styles from your research process, and make it easier to focus on the options you do have.
3. Third, consider your options. Narrowing your choice down to an indoor or outdoor chairlift still means selecting the right lift for you and your home. Do you have a curving staircase or an otherwise unique feature to your home that will affect the use of a lift? Is a brand new lift, even with the assistance of grants, still out of your price range? Many companies offer solutions for these issues, such as custom lift systems, or used systems.
The value of independence and comfort has no price tag, but the process of selecting a chairlift can still be an intimidating one. Keep your objectives clear, and your priorities in order and the process can be much simpler.