You have been thinking about this for a while. Maybe you have noticed the signs, or maybe your parent has had a fall. Either way, you are wondering: is it time?
There is no single answer that fits every family. But this checklist can help you think it through honestly.
The family checklist
Count how many of these apply to your parent:
- They have had a fall or near-miss on the stairs -- even once is significant
- They avoid going upstairs during the day -- whether they admit it or not
- They sleep downstairs -- by choice or necessity
- They are noticeably slower on the stairs than 6 months ago
- They are breathless at the top or bottom of the stairs
- They have a health condition that affects mobility -- arthritis, post-surgery, COPD, or similar
- They need someone with them to use the stairs safely
- You worry about them on the stairs when you are not there
- Their GP or occupational therapist has raised concerns about stairs
- They have changed their routine to avoid the stairs
How to read the results
1-2 items: It may not be urgent, but it is worth monitoring. Consider having an early, low-pressure conversation with your parent so they are prepared.
3-5 items: It is probably time to start researching options. The earlier you start, the more choices you have -- including grants that can take several weeks to process.
6 or more: Act sooner rather than later. Your parent's safety on the stairs is a real concern. If they have had a fall, a stairlift could prevent a much more serious one.
But what if they do not want one?
This is the question almost every family asks. The answer depends on whether your parent is able to make that decision themselves. If they are cognitively well and understand the risks, their choice needs to be respected -- even if it worries you.
But that does not mean you should stop trying. Sometimes it takes time, or a different approach, or the right person saying the right thing. Here is how to have the conversation.
The cost question
Many families delay because they assume a stairlift is unaffordable. In reality, a new straight stairlift typically costs between £1,800 and £5,500 installed, and there are several ways to reduce that cost -- including government grants that can cover the full amount.
The right time is usually sooner than you think. Most families we hear from say they wish they had acted earlier.