How to Approach Your Loved One About Purchasing a Stairlift

Investing in a stairlift is about finding a solution to uncomfortable questions regarding the wellbeing of ageing family and friends. Discover how to respectfully approach the sensitive subject of stair safety with your loved ones.  

All too frequently, the folks who might positively impact the most from having a stairlift in their house are unaware of the benefits or are hesitant to take the step. An essential step to gaining the confidence to purchase a stairlift may take someone who cares about them for encouragement to take the first step. Often adult children of aging parents are the ones who go about persuading their loved ones to invest in a home stairlift or go about purchasing themselves for peace of mind. The general concern is often not enough; here a few reasons loved ones may be hesitant about adding a stairlift to their lives:  

• They feel more physically capable than they might be and are unaware of the hazard stairs may present.   

• They're comfortable in the way things are and do not want change.   

• They are nervous a stairlift could mean they are giving in to getting older and having less mobility.  

• They're fearful of a stairlift and how it may compromise their independence   

• They are cautious of spending money they hope to save for another time.  

Approaching a loved one about a difficult decision can be challenging, especially when it comes down to how they live their daily lives. Thankfully, there are ways to propose a change without it feeling forced or uncomfortable.   

At first, take things slow. There is no need to be pushy or too insistent. Take it more as a discussion than a one-sided tell-all. Hear what your loved one has to say about the situation, and at that time, you can let them know not only what you are observing but also the feelings you have behind the issue. Let them know how important it is not only for your peace of mind but for their safety and general wellbeing.   

It can sometimes be challenging for loved ones to assess their situation, so you need to speak up when you see something. For example, if you start to notice a gradual or sudden change in their ability to use the stairs safely, you should start the conversation before a simple situation could turn more hazardous. Above all, you should be open and honest. Speak from the heart and let them understand the importance of installing a stairlift to suit their mobility needs better.   

Talk through all of the great benefits of adding a stairlift to the home. For example, if your loved one struggles with poor eyesight, a stairlift could prevent trip hazards. A stairlift can increase the independence of those who haven't been able to use the stairs without the assistance of a loved one. The installation of a lift in your loved one's home can even 'futureproof' the house to help slow and aid gradual mobility loss.   

If it comes down to cost in your discussion for a stairlift, you might be able to suggest assistance. If a loved one is hesitant to accept, why not consider making it a gift for a birthday or other special occasion? Older adults are sometimes reluctant to spend their savings on themselves. If that's the case, you can open discourse to persuade them that it's can be very beneficial for them to be a little selfish to focus on themselves for once and spend the money to improve their quality of life.  

Furthermore, a home stairlift may be less expensive than people anticipate. If you pick a provider who provides a free, no-obligation home survey and estimate, you will know precisely how much it will cost before anyone spends a dollar. You can also accompany your parents on the house survey visit, assisting them in determining whether or not they offer their needs.  

Finally, you may seek the assistance of individuals who have seen firsthand how much of a difference a stairlift can make. If you have friends, family, or neighbors that use stairlifts, ask them to speak with your parents about how it may benefit them. Alternatively, look for objective customer testimonials for prominent stairlift providers online to discover what others think of their goods and services. Your parents may be more open to hearing viewpoints voiced by others similar to them in age and life experience.   

If you have any questions or would like to inquire about getting a free quote for a stairlift for your loved one, visit our Contact page.