Instal lift or convert ground floor room to bedroom

quintain

We have a need to consider how to adapt our 3 story home now that my wife is less able to use the stairs.

At this time moving to a bungalow is not an option.

A ground floor room can be converted for a bedroom with a small shower/toilet/handbasin area. However the space is limited and this has to be the 2nd best option.

We can also consider the installation of a ground floor to 1st floor lift and at present this appears to be our best option.

Before I contact any lift supply company and have them possibly rub there hands in glee "a new elderly client who we can overcharge" I ask for any advise via this forum.

What information have you got that could assist our decision on a suitable and not excessively overcharged lift supplier.

Subject to installation requirements we may have the ability to carry out the lift installation work via local trades / friends.

Rodders53

Check out local Charity-type places that may have unbiased advice to give and/or demonstration units available (e.g. Red Cross, DIAL etc.,) . See if your Council's occupational therapists can give advice specific to your wife's needs and even supplier recommendations (if permitted to do so).

Is a through-the-floor lift needed for (anticipated future?) wheelchair use between levels? or could a (cheaper) stairlift suffice?

We did the above when we moved from a bungalow to a house... and eventually used a local-ish stairlift installation company that had demo units in their showroom. Certain models were dismissed solely on the hand controller comfort for my wife. So it's a must to see and try one that works!

Where are you located? as I'd suggest using a reasonably local supplier rather than the nation-wide branded ones, where possible.

quintain

Thank you for your reply and information.

Wonderful West Cumbria just on the fringes of the new World Heritage site of the Lake Distrait.

Stair lift not viable due to mid point landing with large window and doors off.

We are so remote that we have many-many more sheep than stair-lift or through the floor lift suppliers.

I will take your advice and talk with our local 'Age Concern' but they have been seen for a number of years as an aggressive marketing company.

Again thank you for your help.

Ms_Chocaholic

Even with a mid landing, you may find it possible for a stairlift to be fitted.





http://www.ageukmobility.co.uk/stairlifts-buying-guide


Curved Stairlifts

Curved stairlifts are able to go round bends in the staircase, as well as glide across landings or half landings. All Handicare curved stairlift tracks are made to order, to fit each individual staircase. Curved stairlifts operate on a rail that fits very closely to the wall, even on tight bends. Most curved stairlifts run from rechargeable batteries, which are constantly topped up from charging points at the top and bottom of the stairs. The seat needs to be in the right place to charge, and there is a warning beep if it is in the wrong place.

Owain_Moneysaver

Can you put an extension on the ground floor? Even a bolt-on bathroom pod? Or convert a garage?

quintain

Thanks both
1. it is not the curve or turn; it is as initially described the staircase lift has to pass 2 x doors which lead of the 1/2 landing.

2. extension at ground floor is not at this stage an option regrettably

Silvertabby

stair lift not viable due to mid point landing with large window and doors off.

If your wife is able to get across the landing under her own steam, would 2 separate stair lifts work? I'm guessing this would still be cheaper than a lift.

quintain

2 staircase lifts are not something I had even considered just prior to your reply which I thank you for.

My 2 ++ hours research are putting me more towards the through the floor lift.

Cost obviously is always something to consider.

We are slowly coming to the conclusion that we should investigate the new or reconditioned through the floor lift market.

Mrs_Boo_Boo

Have you approached your local council for a Disabled Facilities Grant assessment? Or contacted them to pick their brains? It would be worth talking to an Occupational Therapist who has experience of these things. They may be able to advise you on companies they have worked with.

quintain

Yes to contacting the OT as I am learning they are generally called; we did not know about them but will follow your advice.

sparkiemalarkie

Just a thought.....


http://www.entitledto.co.uk/help/Disability-related-reduction-in-Council-Tax


sparkie