In each and every home, there are a number of very dangerous areas. From sharp corners in the bathroom, to brick mantle places, there are many areas that if a person were to fall, there could be some very serious health risks. However, of all areas, the staircase is the area that is most dangerous for seniors and the elderly. In fact, each year, falls on staircases are responsible for more accidental deaths and hospitalizations among the elderly than any other risk.

Since for the elderly there are so many different dangers that are presented by the stairs, establishing a means of making the staircase safer is essential for any household where a senior resides. In many cases, this involves ensuring the staircase is in good repair, but sometimes, this is not enough, typically because of pre-existing health conditions that make it impossible for them to safely use the stairs. In these situations, using a stair lift is often the easiest and most effective way to help increase staircase safety.

Stair lifts are important tools, which have been used for almost 100 years, but did not become affordable or commonplace until only about 20 years ago. These devices are used to carry a single person up and down the stairs, most often using a chair that moves along a metal track secured to the steps of the staircase. There are a many different stair lift models and a several popular stair lift manufacturers, so it can seem difficult for someone to choose the right stair lift. However, by understanding the different types of stair lifts, as well as considering the needs of the user, it is seldom difficult to find a stair lift that will meet a persons needs.

There are several ways that stair lifts are classified, but one way is by their power source, specifically either AC or DC.

An AC Powered Stair Lift uses the homes power supply as its source of power and is plugged into a normal electrical outlet. In cases where the home looses its power or the stair lift is unplugged, it will simply stop working. A DC Powered Stair Lift gets its power from one, or in some cases multiple, rechargeable batteries. Most often, you will hear DC Powered Stair Lifts referred to as Battery Powered Stair Lifts.

While both types of stair lifts are plugged into a normal household outlet, the battery powered stair lifts are not powered directly from the homes power. Instead, the homes power charges the batteries, which in turn power the stair lift. If the home were to loose its power, a battery powered stair lift will continue to function, so in the event of an electrical storm or other emergency, the DC Stair Lift can still be used.

The DC Powered Stair Lift offers a number of advantages and much more security than an AC Powered Stair Lift does, because the DC Stair Lift can keep going even if there is a power disruption. However, DC Powered Stair Lifts do cost more than AC Powered Stair Lifts. Also, since the batteries must be replaced once every 12 to 18 months, there is an increased maintenance cost associated with battery powered stair lifts. However, despite the higher cost, many people opt to go with a DC Powered Stair Lift due to the added layer of security they offer.

The stairs can be a very dangerous place for seniors and others who have difficulty walking or are othwise mobility challenged. This is one reason that preventing senior falls is such an important subject. In addition to using devices like the stair lift, it is also essential to make certain that the staircase is in good repair, contains armrails, and is free from loose rugs or other items that could increase the risk of a fall.