Stair Lifts Thunder Bay, Ontario

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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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Looking for Stair Lifts in Thunder Bay? Seniors Bulletin can help!
Stair Lifts Gives You Independence In Your Own Home.

Stair Lifts Guide

Stair Lifts: What You Need To Know

seniors happy aging in place

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!

Bulletin Ratings

Seniors Bulletin Ratings & Reviews for Thunder Bay

Best Overall

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Acorn Logo

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.

4.6/5

Most Popular

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

4.7/5

For ON, BC, AB, MB, SK only

Outdoor Options

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

4.1/5

Greater Toronto Area:
1 (844) 702-1988

Benefits & Features

Aging In Place For Seniors: Benefits Of A Stair Lift

Suppose that you have been staying in your Thunder Bay household much of your life or if you have plainly relocated into a brand new house, and then you perhaps plan to continue to be here, especially if you are near your good friends and family members. According to a research study by CARP Canada and AARP, even as they get older, around 90% of elderly people wish to stay in their homes. Still, this is never as straightforward as it sounds and with physical overall health decreasing just as one ages, it ends up being much more hard for seniors to stay on their own, particularly if you have stairs in your home that you require to go up regularly.

Stairs could be just one of the most tough and also hazardous places in your home. Thankfully, there are solutions that can easily allow your family member or even you to stay at home as well as be actually independent for longer and also a stair lift could be a good help for individuals dealing with movement issues, those using a walker or individuals in a wheelchair
And so, what really is a stair lift? A stair lift is a practical tool that can easily assist you to be mobile and it carries you down and up the staircases, enabling you to move about in your house conveniently and do tasks that you would most likely be not able to perform otherwise.

A stair lift is essentially a mechanized chair that helps to elevate you down and up the stairs. A track or rail is commonly positioned to the staircase treads and a chair or a lifting system is connected to the track. In , you are able to get on the chair or the platform and also the chair slides along the path helping you ride up and also down the stairs. You also have versions where you can easily use your wheelchair on the stair lift as well as these are referred to as platform lifts.

Stair Lifts are a large assistance to the senior citizens as well as persons with movement difficulties who consider it a problem to move down and up the stairs in their home.

Key Benefits For Seniors

Getting a stair lift in your house can have a ton of advantages. Below list the key benefits for seniors.

Offers Freedom Independent Living

When mobility as well as walking around a home along with stairs ends up being a concern for seniors and individuals with disabilities, they are actually usually faced with the possibility of moving. Having said that, using a stair lift, you could remain in the house. A stair lift can offer you complete independence to move around in your house and also move up and down the stairs really effortlessly as well as obstacle-free.

Safety and Comfort

A stair lift offers mechanical transportation up and down the staircases. The seat of the stair lift features a safety belt that makes certain that you are actually safe when the stair lift is in motion. Today, the majority of stair lifts have inbuilt safety features that are going to prevent its use in case it comes across an obstruction on the stairs or if any component of the stair lift i.e. the seat, armrests or even footrest is actually not in its proper setting. The stair lifts in addition are equipped with a protection fixture that stops any accidental usage or even little ones coming from using the chair. Typically, the chair of the stair lift comes with an adjustable and also padded seating and armrests that offer max support. You can likewise calibrate the footrest according to your height.

Staircase Accessibility

Many stair lifts offer rather slim profiles and also do not block the entire staircase, which is freely reachable. Generally, the chair, as well as the foot rest are foldable to ensure that it is not a blockage for family members and other people needing to use the stairs.

Easy To Use

Stair Lifts are quite user-friendly and handle. Many stair lifts have a button found on the armrest of the chair that permits you to manage it. Nowadays, many stair lift versions are geared up alongside a remote that allows you to handle it really easily and moves the stair lift to the top or the bottom of the stairs as needed. When the stair lift is in the park setting, it charges, to ensure that you are able to make use of it whenever you need to and in the event that there is a electricity outage, the stair lift commonly has an built in battery back-up that permits you to handle it.
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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 mainly used by and a good support for:

  1. Aging in place elderly people
  2. People having walking and mobility conditions
  3. Those using a walker or in a wheelchair
  4. Individuals with a health condition
  5. Individuals having a sports impairment
  6. People with balance concerns
  7. Those with knee and also back concerns
Stair Lifts For Seniors Aging In Place

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.
Categories

Different Types Of Stair Lifts

There are various kinds of stair lifts including:

Stair Lifts for Straight Stairs​

If your residence includes a straight staircase, then a stair lift which operates on a straight path or rail is certainly one of the most typical kind of stair lift. These oftentimes provide drop-down or perhaps fixed chairs that are affixed. The installment of a stair lift for a straight staircase can end up being a challenge if the stairs are way too narrow. If your stairs is mostly straight and yet it comes with an arc at the top, then you can easily choose a straight stair lift along with a bridging platform that serves to help the lift to reach the landing more effectively. Typically, straight stair lifts are the least expensive and easiest to setup.
Straight Stairs

Stair Lifts for Curved Stairs​

In case that your staircases are curved, then you need to attach a curved stair lift. Those are actually much more intricate compared to straight stair lifts as well as they involve curved rails to fit the exact shape of the stairs. Normally, curved stair lifts are much more expensive.
Curved Stairs

Wheelchair and Platform Stair Lifts​

Wheelchair inclined platform wheelchair lift or “IPL” Is a lift that is attached to your stairs. It carries mobility devices back and forth the stairs rather than a detached device such as an elevator or a vertical stairlift. Some platforms may fold up against the wall, while others stay fixed. Options depend on your requirements and your space. Most inclined platform lifts come with the selection for a remote to call for the platform to the landing area/position of their preference. Inclined platform lifts need ample head clearance, stairs area, and also landing room at the bottom of the stairway. Incline wheelchair lifts are a great selection for those who do not wish to transfer on and off their wheelchair for them to go up and down the stairs. It is a great approach to increase accessibility around stairs. This is an ideal alternative for those that do not have the space for or the resources for an elevator or a vertical platform lift in their residence. Enables an individual in a wheelchair to get up and also descend stairways without having to transfer from mobility device or mobility scooter Uses a system that flights up and down the stairways For both interior and also exterior Folds up out of the way while not in use Has safety stop sensors & battery back-up Both are trusted and also secure for wheelchairs and also users.
Wheelchair and Platform Stair Lifts

Outdoor Or Exterior Stair Lifts​

These forms of stair lifts are typically set up outside on staircases that take you to your main door or on steps leading to your backyard or patio. Outside stair lifts are essentially the same as straight or curved stair lifts that are used inside; but, these are often made with weather-proof materials.

Standing Stair Lifts

If your staircase is specifically considerably narrow and it will not fit a seated stair lift, then a standing stair lift is preferred. Having said that, you should make certain that you have ample space in the staircase plusthat it is elevated enough to fit you when you’re standing. Standing stair lifts are particularly helpful for people having challenges moving their knees. Some standing stair lift versions also come with a tiny ledge that allows you to hold on to your balance. Even so, standing stair lift may not be appropriate for everybody, especially if you don’t have the sturdiness to stand for a several mins or you are predisposed to getting dizzy.
Buying Guide

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 Thunder Bay

Provincial

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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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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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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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.

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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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

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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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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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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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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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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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

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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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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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

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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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

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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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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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

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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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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