Stair Lifts Sault Ste Marie, Ontario

Acorn Stairlifts are installed somewhere in the world every eight minutes, every single day of the year. Acorn has been striving to create new benchmarks in quality and innovation for the stairlift industry since its formation in 1992.
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Looking for Stair Lifts in Sault Ste Marie? Seniors Bulletin can help!
Stair Lifts Gives You Freedom In Your Own Home.

Stair Lifts: What You Need To Know

In Canada, stair lifts are a great way to help seniors get around their homes safely and comfortably. They’re also great for people with disabilities and anyone else who has difficulty climbing stairs.

Stair lifts are a solution that can make all the difference in your life, whether you’re an elderly person living alone or someone who is just looking to make their life easier.

If you’ve ever been frustrated trying to get up and down the stairs in your home, then a stair lift may be right for you! If you’re a parent, caregiver or manager of someone who has suffered a stroke or other debilitating brain or spinal cord injury, your risk of falling is significantly greater than the general population.

To reduce your risk of falls, a stair lift may be your solution!

Wil Thomas

Editor at Seniors Bulletin

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Stair Lifts: What You Need To Know

Seniors Bulletin Ratings & Reviews for Sault Ste Marie

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Seniors Bulletin Ratings & Reviews for Sault Ste Marie

Best Overall

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Acorn Stairlifts are installed somewhere in the world every eight minutes, every single day of the year. Acorn has been striving to create new benchmarks in quality and innovation for the stairlift industry since its formation in 1992.

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☆☆☆☆☆ 4.6/5

Most Popular

For three decades, Bruno Independent Living Aids has helped people with restricted mobility live happier, more fulfilling lives.

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☆☆☆☆☆ 4.7/5

For ON, BC, AB, MB, SK only

Outdoor Options

Handicare’s global headquarters is located in Stockholm, Sweden, while its north North American headquarters and manufacturing facility is situated in St. Louis, Missouri.

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☆☆☆☆☆ 4.1/5

Greater Toronto Area:
1 (844) 702-1988

Sault Ste Marie Nearby Service Areas:

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Aging In Place For Seniors: Benefits of Installing a Stair Lift in Your Home

If you have been staying in your Sault Ste Marie home most of your life or even if you have plainly moved to a brand-new residence, then you perhaps want to continue to be here, primarily if you are near your friends and also family members. According to a research study by CARP Canada and AARP, even as they get older, around 90% of seniors want to remain in their homes. However this is not as simple as it appears and along with physical overall health declining when one ages, it becomes increasingly more difficult for seniors to stay on their own, primarily if you have stairs in your home that you require to get around everyday.

Stairs could be among uppermost challenging and treacherous locations in your house. The good news is, there are actually options that can allow your loved one or even you to remain at home and also be actually self-sufficient for longer as well as a stair lift can be an ideal help for individuals suffering from movement problems, those using a wheel rollator or individuals in a wheelchair
What actually is a stair lift? A stair lift is a practical piece of equipment that can assist you to be mobile as well as it brings you down and up the stairs, enabling you to move around in your home with ease and also engage in activities that you would be not capable to perform otherwise.

A stair lift is essentially an automated chair that assists to elevate you up and down the staircases. A track or rail is usually installed to the staircase treads and a chair or a hauling platform is affixed to the track. In , you are able to get on the chair or the platform and the chair slides along the path enabling you move up and also down the stairs. You additionally have styles wherein you can easily take your wheelchair on the stair lift and these are known as platform lifts.

Stair Lifts are a huge assistance to the elderly people as well as people by having movement challenges that find it a challenge to move up and down the stairs in their house.

Top Reasons For A Stair Lift For Seniors

Getting a stair lift in your home can easily have a ton of perks. Below list the top benefits for seniors.

Freedom

When mobility and getting around a house along with stairs ends up being a problem for senior citizens as well as individuals with handicaps, they are actually usually dealt with the choice of relocating. However, by having a stair lift, you could remain in the house. A stair lift can give you complete ability to move around in your home and navigate the stairs really easily as well as obstacle-free.

Safety and Comfort

A stair lift provides automated passage down and up the staircases. The chair of the stair lift offers a seat belt that makes certain that you are actually secure when the stair lift is in action. Today, the majority of stair lifts have built-in safety features that will avoid its use in the event it encounters an obstruction on the stairs or if any sort of part of the stair lift i.e. the seat, armrests or foot rest is not in its proper setting. The stair lifts in addition are equipped alongside a safety lock that protects against any type of unexpected use or little ones from using the chair. Typically, the seat of the stair lift has an adjustable and also cushioned seating and armrests that provide optimal comfort. You can additionally adjust the foot rest depending on to your height.

Staircase Accessibility

The majority of stair lifts feature quite slim profiles as well as do not block the total stairs, which is easily accessible. Usually, the chair, and also the footrest are foldable so that it is not a blockage for family members as well as other people wanting to operate the stairs.

Usability

Stair Lifts are very simple to use and handle. Many stair lifts have a toggle switch found on the armrest of the chair that allows you to manage it. Now a days, lots of stair lift designs are actually installed alongside a remote that allows you to manage it quite easily and also gets the stair lift to the top or the bottom of the staircases as needed. When the stair lift is in the lock position, it charges, so that you are able to make use of it whenever you need to and also in case there is a electrical power disconnection, the stair lift commonly has an integrated battery back-up that allows you to use it.

Who Uses a Stair Lift?

According to Statistics Canada, Falls are the most common cause of injury among older Canadians. Every year, it is estimated 1 in 3 seniors aged 65 years and older are likely to fall at least once. Stairs in the house can be a huge risk for people with mobility problems. See our full reviews and compare all stair lifts in Canada.

People Who Benefit Most From Stair Lifts

Stair Lifts are mostly used by and are also a wonderful help for:

Aging in place senior citizens
People having walking and mobility conditions
Those using a wheel rollator or in a wheelchair
Persons with a health problem
People having a sports impairment
Individuals with balance problems
Those with knee and back conditions

Ontario Healthcare Facts

One third of all independently living Canadian seniors experience at least one fall each year.
In Ontario, every 10 minutes there is at least one senior who will be in the Emergency Department due to a fall.
In Ontario, every 30 minutes there is at least one senior who will be be admitted to the hospital due to a fall.
It is 9 times more likely for seniors to have a fall related injury compared to people who are less than 65 years of age.
Medications used to treat Alzheimer’s patients also predisposes them to fainting and falling.

Different Types Of Stair Lifts

There are various forms of stair lifts such as:

Stair Lifts for Straight Stairs

If your dwelling has straight stairs, then a stair lift which runs by a straight path or rail is certainly one of the most typical kind of stair lift. These either come with drop-down or perhaps fixed seats that are affixed. The setup of a stair lift for a straight stairs can end up being an issue if the staircases are far too tight. In case your stairs is mostly straight and yet it contains an arc at the top, then you may choose a straight stair lift and a joining system that serves to help the lift to come to the landing better. Commonly, straight stair lifts are the least expensive as well as simplest to setup.

Stair Lifts for Curved Stairs

If your stairs are curved, then you should install a curved stair lift. Those are actually more intricate compared to straight stair lifts as well as they need curved tracks to go with the exact contour of the stairs. Typically, curved stair lifts are a lot more pricey.

Wheelchair and Platform Stair Lifts

Wheelchair inclined platform wheelchair lift or “IPL” Is a lift that is connected to your stairs. It carries wheelchairs up and down the stairs instead of a detached equipment like an elevator or a vertical stairlift. Some platforms may fold up against the wall, while others remain fixed. Options are dependent on your needs and also your house. Many inclined platform lifts come with the choice for a remote to call for the platform to the landing area/position of their choice. Inclined platform lifts need ample head clearance, stairs area, and landing space at the base of the stairway. Incline wheelchair lifts are an ideal selection for those who do not wish to move on and off their wheelchair in order to go up and down the stairs. It is a good way to increase accessibility up and down stairs. This is an optimal option for individuals that do not have the area for or the resources for an elevator or a vertical platform lift in their home. Allows an individual in a wheelchair to get up as well as down stairs without having to transfer from mobility device or mobility scooter Utilizes a system that rides backwards and forwards the stairs For both inside as well as outside Folds away when not being used Has safety stop indicators & battery backup Both are reputable as well as secure for wheelchairs and also users.

Outdoor Or Exterior Stair Lifts

These sorts of stair lifts are commonly mounted outside on stairs that go to your main door or on stairs going to your yard or garden. Outdoor stair lifts are generally similar to straight or curved stair lifts that are used indoors; but, these are usually made using weather-proof materials.

Standing Stair Lifts

If your staircase is particularly very narrow and it will not accommodate a chair stair lift, then a standing stair lift is generally preferred. On the other hand, you have to make certain that you have adequate space in the staircase plusthat it is high enough to accommodate you when you are standing. Standing stair lifts are particularly beneficial for persons having concerns bending their knees. Some standing stair lift versions similarly come with a little ledge that allows you to keep your balance. Having said that, standing stair lift might not be suitable for everybody, specifically if you don’t have the sturdiness to stand up for a number of minutes or even if you are predisposed to getting unsteady.

Buying Process For Stair Lifts

Manufacturers and distributors of stair lift generally have their own process. However, it all boils down to 3 easy steps!

SURVEY

Request a visit from the stair lift provider! They will provide you with an in-home assessment. Most providers or distributors provide this service for FREE! Their teams will help you decide which stair lift is best for your home and your budget.

DESIGN QUOTE

They will provide the quote to you that includes all your design elements and details regarding your stair lift. Take the time you need to review the quote. It is a very important part of the process!

INSTALLATION

Once the quote is signed, providers or distributor will put your stair lift in production. The installation team will reach out to you and arrange a time for technicians to install your stair lift. It generally takes less than a day for installation but times may vary based on the complexity of your home’s stairs.

Funding For Stair Lifts In Sault Ste Marie

Provincial

Assistive Devices Program (ADP)

Overview

Government program that provides support and funding to Ontario residents who have long-term physical disabilities. Provides access to assistive devices that meet individuals’ basic needs.

Assistive devices
Mobility devices

Basic Eligibility

Ontario residents with a valid Ontario Health Card who have a physical disability of 6 months or longer.

ADP will not pay for equipment available under the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) or to Group “A” Veterans for their pensioned conditions.

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Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)

Overview

Income and employment support to help people with disabilities live as independently as possible.

Eligibility

Your eligibility for ODSP depends on medical and financial circumstances. Find out what information we look at when deciding your eligibility, and how much you can earn and keep in assets while being on ODSP. Learn how these affect your income support and eligibility on ODSP.

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Ontario Works (OW)

Overview

OW is a social assistance program that provides money and help finding employment.

Basic Eligibility

Individuals may be eligible for OW if:

Live in Ontario
Need money right away to help pay for food and housing costs
Willing to take part in activities that will help you find a job

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Seniors’ Home Safety Tax Credit

Overview

In Ontario, Seniors can make their homes safer and more accessible with the help of this new tax credit in 2021 & 2022.

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Effective tax year 2023, the Seniors’ home safety tax credit was eliminated.

Senior Homeowners' Property Tax Grant

Overview

Seniors who are low-to-moderate income senior, you may be eligible for up to $500 back on your property taxes.

Eligibility

Ontario seniors, who are 64 years of age or older, who paid Ontario property tax for the year and owned and occupied their principal residence may qualify for this grant amount. Some income requirements also need to be met.

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Workplace Safety Insurance Board

Overview

Ontario government agency that provides compensation for injured workers. WSIB may provide funding for the following:

Assistive devices
Mobility devices

Basic Eligibility

Client may be eligible for WSIB if they had a work-related injury/disease. May be eligible for funding for assistive/mobility devices.

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Not-For-Profit Organizations

The ALS Society of Ontario

Overview

Equipment loan pool and may provide partial assistance with funding for equipment for those with ALS.

Assistive devices
Mobility devices
Home modifications

Basic Eligibility

Applicants must be registered with ALS Ontario to qualify for assistance Proof of Income required (CRA Notice of Assessment)

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Spinal Cord Injury Ontario - Equipment for Independence Program

Overview

May provide assistance with funding for medical equipment or renovations.

Assistive devices
Mobility devices
Home modifications

Basic Eligibility

Individuals with spinal cord injury may be eligible for funding.

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The Easter Seals Society - Ontario

Overview

Provides programs and services to children and youth with physical disabilities across Ontario. Possible maximum of $3,000 for all equipment/service requests per client. Batteries, repairs and replacement parts are not funded.

Mobility Equipment
Accessibility Equipment
Assistive Equipment ie. Bathing Toileting Equipment

Basic Eligibility

Parents must attempt to access all other funding sources first.
Funded items must be authorized by a healthcare professional.

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Ontario March of Dimes - Home and Vehicle Modification Program (HVMP)

Overview

You could get money to help with the cost of making your home and vehicle more accessible if you or your child has a disability that restricts mobility.

Eligibility

The program is available to permanent residents of Ontario who live with a substantial disability that impacts their mobility and daily function, and who can’t afford the modifications they need to maximize their independence.

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Ontario March of Dimes - Assistive Devices Program (ADP)

Overview

The Assistive Devices Program (ADP) of the March of Dimes assists adults with physical disabilities who are in financial need to purchase assistive devices to increase their mobility and functional independence.

Assistive devices
Mobility devices

Basic Eligibility

19 years of age or older
Has an ongoing physical limitation that requires the use of an assistive device
In financial need (refer to the Income Eligibility chart)
A permanent resident of Ontario

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Ontario Partnership On Aging And Developmental Disabilities

Overview

Organization’s mission is that older adults with a developmental disability have the same rights to support and services as all older Ontarians.

Home modifications

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Federal

Home Accessibility Expenses Tax Credit

Overview

The HATC is a non-refundable tax credit for eligible home renovation or alteration expenses that allow a qualifying individual to gain access to, or to be mobile or functional within the eligible dwelling or reduce the risk of harm to the qualifying individual within the dwelling or in gaining access to the dwelling.

Eligibility

Must be 65 years or older, or
Medical practitioner must fill out and certify that you have a severe and prolonged impairment and must describe its effects on you
Up to $10,000/Year

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Medical Expense Tax Credit

Overview METC is a non-refundable tax credit for a claimed medical expenses under a qualifying and eligible list. Both the METC and the HATC can be claimed for the same expense. Eligibility

Eligible medical expenses for yourself, spouse/common-law partner & dependent children (Stairlift needs doctor’s prescription)

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Disability Tax Credit

Overview

The Disability Tax Credit is a non-refundable tax credit in Canada for individuals who have a severe and prolonged impairment in physical or mental function. An impairment qualifies as prolonged if it is expected to or has lasted at least 12 months.

While this will not directly support any home accessibility equipment or medical alert systems, if eligible, it can provide you with a maximum credit of $8,870 for an adult, which can help towards those needs.

Basic Eligibility

A medical practitioner must certify you as eligible for the Disability Tax Credit. They must state you have a severe and prolonged impairment in 1 of the categories, significant limitations in 2 or more categories, or receive therapy to support a vital function.

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Canada Not-For-Profit Organizations

Ceridian Cares

Overview

Ceridian Cares provides grants for the following types of needs:

Clothing and Footwear: Seasonal clothing, boots, shoes, children’s clothing, work clothing, outerwear
Food and Basic Household Needs: Food, blankets, mattresses, cookware/dishes, small appliances, towels, diapers, cribs, personal hygiene
Medical Devices and Therapies: Prosthetics, eyewear, medical equipment, home adjustments for barrier free living, respite services, braille books, short-term counselling services, physiotherapy
Personal Development and Recreation: Children’s programs, camp, art supplies, books, athletic programs

Please note: These are examples only and the list is not exhaustive. Grants typically range from $200 to $4000 to a maximum grant of $5000.

Basic Eligibility

Applicant must be

18 years of age or older
A Canadian resident
An individual or family in need of financial assistance related to the types of items supported by Ceridian Cares

Please note: Ceridian Cares will not provide grants to the same recipient in consecutive years.

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Easter Seals Canada

Overview Easter Seals is Canada’s largest local provider of programs, services, and issues-leadership and development for the disability community. Each province has their own funding. It is recommend that you check your local province’s brand for specific funding opportunities. Basic Eligibility Not Applicable. View website

Home Adaptations for Seniors’ Independence Program (HASI)

Overview

The Home Adaptations for Seniors’ Independence Program (HASI) is a Canadian government-funded program that provides financial assistance for age-related home adaptations to improve the quality of life and independence of First Nation or First Nation members living on reserve who are 65 years old or older and have difficulty with daily living activities brought on by aging. The program helps with necessary adaptations to homes to maintain independence and improve quality of life. The total household income of the senior occupant must also be at or below a specified limit to qualify for assistance. The program is designed to help seniors assess their own unique circumstances and identify the types of difficulties seniors can experience in the home and describes adaptations to overcome these difficulties.

Basic Eligibility

The applicant must be 65 years or older.
The applicant must be a First Nation or Inuit person living on reserve.
The applicant must have difficulty with daily living activities brought on by aging.
The total household income of the senior occupant must be at or below a specified limit to qualify for assistance.
The applicant must own or rent the home in which the adaptations are to be made.

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March of Dimes Canada

Overview March of Dimes Canada is an organization that provides a wide range of services to people with disabilities throughout the country. March of Dimes Canada Assistive Devices Program assists adults with physical disabilities who are in financial need to purchase assistive devices that increase their mobility and functional independence. The Program can help to buy, repair and maintain a wide variety of mobility or assistive equipment. The Program may also have contact information or resources to assist you in locating additional funding sources. Basic Eligibility Available for low-income individuals & families. It is suitable for ongoing/recurring disability that is anticipated to last more than one year. The disability results in restrictions in activities of daily living. Max Funding Up to $15,000. Some devices that may qualify for funding include:

Manual and Power Wheelchairs
Scooters
Replacement Batteries
Walkers
Knee Ankle Foot Orthosis (KAFO)
Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO)
Home and Bath Aids
Floor Patient Lifts
Basic Aids for Daily Living
Repairs to Existing Devices

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Muscular Dystrophe Canada

Overview Organization dedicated to raising awareness and educating people about neuromuscular disease. Loan pool and may provide assistance with funding for equipment for those with MD. Assistive devices Mobility devices Home modifications Eligibility Maximum contribution per item: $2,640 Client minimum contribution: $200.00 – Equipment costing less than $200 is not eligible – You must be a registered client of Muscular Dystrophy Canada. Muscular Dystrophy Canada will not issue reimbursements. Be sure to complete the application process and receive approval from our office, prior to purchasing the item. View website

Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada

Overview

Provides services to people with multiple sclerosis and their families and funds research to find the cause and cure for this disease.

Loan pool and may provide assistance with funding for equipment for those with MS.

Assistive devices
Mobility devices
Home modifications

Basic Eligibility

Funding eligibility varies from province to province – check the website for more information.

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Veterans Affairs Canada - Veterans Independence Program For Primary Caregivers

Overview

The Veterans Independence Program for primary caregivers provides annual tax-free funding to help cover the cost for services such as grounds maintenance and housekeeping. This program helps the primary caregivers – of a Veteran who was receiving the Veterans Independence Program and who has now moved to long term care or is deceased – remain in their home and community.

This program does not replace other federal, provincial or municipal programs. Instead, it is intended to work with those programs to help meet your needs.

Assistive devices
Mobility devices
Home modifications

Basic Eligibility

To qualify for either housekeeping and/or grounds maintenance, the Veteran must have been eligible for that service through the Veterans Independence Program and has now moved to long term care or is deceased.

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