Stair Lifts Vancouver, British Columbia

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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 Vancouver? Seniors Bulletin can help!
Stair Lifts Gives You Freedom In Your Own Home.

Stair Lifts Guide

Seniors Bulletin: Stair Lifts For Seniors

seniors stair lift overview

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 Vancouver

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

bruno logo

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: Stair Lifts and The Benefits For Seniors

Suppose that you have been staying in your Vancouver household most of your life or if you have simply moved to a new house, then you certainly want to continue to be , particularly if you are near your friends and colleagues and also family members. According to a research study via AARP, even as they age, approximately 90% of seniors want to remain in their home or apartments. But this is actually never as straightforward as it appears and with physical well-being decreasing as one grows older, it ends up being increasingly hard for seniors to remain on their own, primarily if you have stairs in your home that you require to go up regularly.

Stairs can be just one of the most tough and unsafe places in your house. Fortunately, there are options that can allow your loved one or you to stay at home and be self-supporting for longer and also a stair lift can be a good advantage for people experiencing movement issues, those using a walker or people in a wheelchair
And so, what really is a stair lift? A stair lift is a simple piece of equipment that can assist you to be mobile as well as it transports you down and up the staircases, enabling you to move about in your home easily as well as do things that you would certainly be not capable to perform otherwise.

A stair lift is basically a mechanical seat that helps to raise you down and up the staircases. A track or rail is normally mounted to the staircase treads as well as a chair or a lifting platform is attached to the track. In , you can get on the chair or the platform and the chair glides along the track assisting you ride up and also down the stairs. You additionally have styles wherein you can use your wheelchair on the stair lift as well as these are known as platform lifts.

Stair Lifts are actually a big help to the seniors as well as persons with movement issues who consider it a problem to use the stairs in their home.

Key Benefits For Seniors

Having a stair lift in your house can have a great deal of advantages. Below list the top benefits for seniors.

Offers Freedom Independent Living

When mobility and moving a house along with staircases comes to be a complication for elderly people as well as people with handicaps, they are usually dealt with the possibility of relocating. That being said, by having a stair lift, you could remain at home. A stair lift can easily give you total freedom to move around in your house and also walk up and down the stairs quite simply and also obstacle-free.

Safety and Comfort

A stair lift offers mechanical passage down and up the stairs. The seat of the stair lift has a safety harness that ensures that you are safe when the stair lift is in motion. Today, a lot of stair lifts have inbuilt protection attributes that are going to avoid its use in case it encounters an obstruction on the staircases or even if any type of part of the stair lift i.e. the seat, armrests or even footrest is not in its proper setting. The stair lifts also are outfitted alongside a protection fixture that stops any sort of accidental use or kids coming from operating the chair.

Usually, the seat of the stair lift comes with a modifiable and cushioned seating and armrests that provide max support. You can additionally change the foot rest according to your height.

Staircase Accessibility

Most stair lifts have relatively slim profiles as well as do not clog the total staircase, which is easily attainable. Usually, the chair, in addition to the footrest are collapsible to ensure it is not an obstacle for family and also other people needing to use the stairs.

Easy

Stair Lifts are extremely easy to use and even control. A lot of stair lifts have a toggle button situated on the armrest of the chair that enables you to handle it. These days, lots of stair lift designs are installed alongside a remote that enables you to manage it quite easily and moves the stair lift to the top or the bottom of the staircases as needed. When the stair lift is in the lock stance, it recharges, to make sure that you are able to make use of it whenever you want to and in case there is a electricity outage, the stair lift generally has an inbuilt battery back-up that enables 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 mostly used by and a wonderful help for:

  1. Growing old in place elderly people
  2. Individuals having walking and also movement problems
  3. Those using a walker or in a wheelchair
  4. Individuals with a health issue
  5. Individuals having a sports injury
  6. People with balance concerns
  7. Those with leg and back concerns
Stair Lifts For Seniors Aging In Place

British Columbia Healthcare Facts

  • One third of all independently living Canadian seniors experience at least one fall each year.
  • In British Columbia, every 10 minutes there is at least one senior who will be in the Emergency Department due to a fall.
  • In British Columbia, 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 different kinds of stair lifts such as:

Stair Lifts for Straight Stairs​

If your home includes a straight staircase, then a stair lift which runs by a straight path or rail is usually one of the most popular type of stair lift. These either have drop-down or perhaps set chairs that are affixed. The installment of a stair lift in a straight stairs may come to be an issue if the stairs are far too tight. In case your staircase is mostly straight yet it features a contour up on top, then you can easily pick a straight stair lift and also a bridging platform that assists the lift to come to the landing more effectively. Usually, straight stair lifts are the least expensive and easiest to set up.
Straight Stairs

Stair Lifts for Curved Stairs​

If your stairs are curved, then you need to attach a curved stair lift. These are actually a lot more intricate compared to straight stair lifts as well as they need rounded tracks to go with the precise form of the stairs. Generally, curved stair lifts are actually far more costly.
Curved Stairs

Wheelchair and Platform Stair Lifts​

Wheelchair inclined platform wheelchair lift or “IPL” Is a lift that is attached to your stairs. It transfers mobility devices back and forth the stairs in lieu of a detached device like an elevator or a vertical stairlift. Some platforms might fold facing the wall, while others remain fixed. Selections depend on your needs and also your home. Many inclined platform lifts come with the option for a remote to call for the platform to the landing area/position of their preference. Inclined platform lifts require adequate head clearance, stairway area, and also landing area at the bottom of the stairs. Incline wheelchair lifts are a good alternative for those that do not wish to move on and off their wheelchair for them to go up and down the stairs. It is an effective approach to increase accessibility around stairs. This is an ideal option for individuals who do not have the area for or the resources for an elevator or a vertical platform lift in their house. Allows an individual in a mobility device to get up as well as descend stairs without needing to move from wheelchair or scooter Utilizes a platform that trips up and down the stairs For both interior as well as exterior Folds away while not being used Has safety stop indicators & battery back-up Both are dependable and also secure for wheelchairs and users.
Wheelchair and Platform Stair Lifts

Outdoor Or Exterior Stair Lifts​

These sorts of stair lifts are usually installed outside on stairways that lead to your front door or on stairs leading to your yard or garden. Outside stair lifts are generally similar to straight or curved stair lifts that are used inside your home; however, these are typically made from weather-proof materials.

Standing Stair Lifts

If your staircase is specifically very slender and it will certainly not go with a seated stair lift, then a standing stair lift is generally best. However, you have to ensure that you have adequate space in the stairs andthat it is elevated enough to accommodate you when you’re standing up. Standing stair lifts are particularly advantageous for individuals experiencing problems flexing their legs. Some standing stair lift models also offer a slight ledge that allows you to keep your balance. Even so, standing stair lift might not be suited for everyone, particularly if you don’t have the strength to stand up for a few minutes or even if you are susceptible 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 Vancouver

Provincial

The BC RAHA program is now accepting applications. BC RAHA is allocated on a first come, first served basis with priority given to complete applications. The program will close on March 31, 2023, or sooner if funds have been exhausted.

Overview

The BC Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations (BC RAHA) program provides financial help in the form of rebates to eligible low-income households to complete home adaptations for independent living. A lifetime maximum amount of $17,500 applies.

Basic Eligibility

Homeowners have different program requirements than landlord or tenants. There is an application for Landlord/Tenant, and a separate and completely different application for Homeowners. Requirements are also different. Please see website for full details.

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Overview

Funds a range of new and used equipment and will consider even the most obscure devices if they will assist an individual in their quality of life and personal mobility. Examples of the most frequently funded equipment include:

  • Power wheelchairs
  • Manual Wheelchairs
  • Driver’s rehab lessons
  • Custom orthotics
  • Specialized wheelchair seating systems
  • Ramps
  • Portable lift system
  • Scooters
  • Recreation therapy opportunities
  • Walkers
  • Assistive technology devices (e.g. Dragon speaking software)

Basic Eligibility

Awards are considered by a combination of factors. Approved applications typically demonstrate a severe need, an inability to acquire the needed equipment through other means and must meet financial and medical qualifications.

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Overview

Canadian Red Cross Health Equipment Loan Program (HELP) provides Canadians with health equipment on a donation basis.

  • Long Term Program
  • Advanced Short Term Program
  • Basic Short Term Program
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Overview

In British Columbia, this supplement allows low income seniors to supplement their home owner grant if it’s been reduced or eliminated because of the high assessed value of their principal residence.

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Overview

Life After 60 steps its up where health care ends, supporting Senior’s in BC with Medical Priorities. It’s what we’re passionate about and we anticipate to cover a wide spectrum of support.

Funding from Life After 60 helps to cover costs for medical priorities such as: dental care, eye glasses, hearing aids, mobility devices and much more.

Eligibility

Funding is based on financial needs and family demographics.

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Provincial Not-For-Profit Organizations

Overview

Vancouver Foundation grants to hundreds of charities and non-profits in BC every year. Their vision is to create healthy, vibrant, and livable communities, that is focused on supporting projects that address the root causes of important issues. The Vancouver Fund may not provide funds directly for your needs but may provide funding for other charities that may be suitable. Subscribe to their mailing list for future grands and funds.

Basic Eligibility

Not applicable.

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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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In The Bulletin

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