If you suffer from limited mobility, you've learned to make adjustments to help you achieve milestones that you once took for granted. This doesn't mean you should have to make choices that deprive you of enjoying life to its fullest potential. When it comes to accessing all levels of your home, opting out is not an option. Today's stair lift choices are versatile and easy to use. Installation by a professional is a snap, and you'll never again have to settle for one-level living. Use the following tips to help you select the stair lift that best fits your lifestyle and the design of your home.

Opt For Comfort And Convenient Design

Comfort is a huge factor when choosing a stair lift. You want an ergonomically designed seat, a sturdy back rest, a wide platform, and a lift that folds up for easy storage when not in use. Your stair lift shouldn't block access to your stairs by other members of the family, and it should be versatile enough to curve with the construction of your staircase. You also want a model that swings wide enough at the top of the stairs to enable you to step safely out.

Check For Ease Of Use

Resist the urge to purchase a stair lift simply because it's the only one that's set up and available for demonstration at your local medical supply store. You should test several different styles of lifts—sit in them, ride them, and practice operating the controls before making your decision. If possible, check out the stair lifts installed at the homes of friends or in local private-care facilities. Most facilities will be happy to let you try out their lifts if you explain why you're making the request.

A stair lift is an expensive and important purchase. Settling for something you'll grow to hate in the future is not the way to go.

Keep Safety In Mind

Safety is a huge concern when purchasing your first stair lift. The model you eventually choose should be equipped with a seat belt. It should have a safety sensor that stops the motion when it encounters an obstacle on the stairs. The stop and start functions should operate smoothly without jolting, and the lift should be equipped with a braking mechanism that you can operate manually.

Have Your Lift Professionally Installed

Installing a stair lift takes precision knowledge and attention to safety. And while it's an expensive proposition, it's not one on which you should skimp. According to information published in the Huffington Post, it can cost anywhere between $3,000 and $15,000 to have a stair lift professionally installed. Curved staircases offer up the biggest challenges and require the most expense, but it's worth the cost to have the peace of mind of knowing that your stair lift was installed correctly and that it isn't going to fail you when you need it most.

Taking the time to browse the available options, try out the versions available, and have your stair lift installed by a reputable company can be a time-consuming and money-tasking project, but once it's complete, you'll be on your way to enjoying the life that you deserve. Limited mobility doesn't have to change your life drastically. There's enough technology and advancements in medical care today to accommodate those who need a little extra help. And you may even find financial assistance to help you offset the cost. No one should have to choose between their personal safety and using the second story of their home. Happily, if you choose the right stair lift, you won't have to either.