Struggling With Stairs?
How Stairlifts and Mobility Aids Improve Safety and Independence at Home
Do you struggle with climbing the stairs?
Does the thought of approaching bedtime fill you with fear?
Maybe it is time to address the problem before the physical or mental worry becomes an accidental fall or injury, which can be far more serious.
Here at TPG we are not a sales-driven organisation that looks to extract the most from someone else’s problems.
We are more akin to a problem-solver that looks further into the issues to produce a solution that is integrated into your daily living normality and looks to reduce the risks and concerns of those with poor mobility associated with climbing the stairs.
We will be offering solutions that integrate with your existing property and are not obstructions to the more able-bodied that live in the house.
The dangers of ascending the stairs, or rather stumbling or falling on the stairs, are immense.
The risk of broken bones, cuts or bruising can be far more serious for someone of advanced years, but this risk can be addressed in a number of ways, not least the installation of a stairlift.
Add to the physical difficulties the stress and anxiety that can affect your wellbeing when it is time to climb the stairs, and it becomes a real dent to your daily enjoyment of your home.
As an independent supplier of some of the best stairlifts available in the UK, such as Handicare, Stannah and Thyssen, we can assess the needs, formulate a solution and deliver the best package for you.
Of course, once you are upstairs your mobility problems do not magically go away.
For this reason we can look at other issues you may struggle with, such as getting into or out of the bath, maybe getting into bed or sitting up to get comfortable, or watching TV from your bed.
Ready to regain your independence?
You don't have to choose between safety and staying in the home you love. As independent experts, we offer a wide range of straight and curved stairlifts from the UK's top brands.
The same problems can be an issue downstairs as well.
Is the height of your armchair critical to ensure you can stand up independently, or do you suffer with swollen ankles because the circulation to your lower legs has been compromised?
Perhaps the use of an electric riser/recliner chair would help with your safe independence and be far more comfortable as well.
These are just a few of the things that our trusted assessors can advise on to keep you safe and well at home.
The alternatives are often disruptive, painful or very expensive.
Moving home and losing your long-time neighbours and social network, let alone the chances of finding an affordable bungalow or ground-floor accommodation, is a big step when thoughtful additions or modifications may be the safest way forward.
Ask us anything
- Contact our friendly team at TPG Disableaids for expert advice and support.
- We’ll help you choose the right solution.
Have any question? We’re here to assist you
Frequently Asked Questions Stairlift and Home Independence
When should I start thinking about a stairlift?
If using the stairs causes pain, discomfort, breathlessness or a fear of falling, it may be time to consider a stairlift.
If you are avoiding going upstairs or feel anxious at bedtime because of the stairs, a stairlift or other adaptation could improve your safety and daily life.
Are stairlifts safe for older or less able people?
The new safety standard requires that stairlifts include essential safety features such as seatbelts, safety sensors and secure braking systems.
For many less able and older people, a stairlift greatly lowers the risk of slips, trips and falls on the stairs.
Will a stairlift damage my stairs or walls?
A stairlift is usually fixed to the steps and floor, not the wall, so it rarely harms the wall structure.
Any fixing holes in the stairs or flooring are small and can often be brushed over if carpeted, or filled if the lift is removed in the future.
Can others still walk up the stairs?
Most stairlifts fold away and turn out of the way when not in use, so the seat, arms and footrest take up little space.
A survey checks the width of the stairs and nearby doors to make sure others can still use the staircase safely.
How much does a stairlift cost in the UK?
A straight stairlift usually costs from £1,200, while curved models cost more due to their custom rails, which are made specifically for the property layout.
Reconditioned or monthly rental stairlifts can lower the upfront price, starting from £450, and may suit short‑term or budget needs.
How much does a stairlift cost to run?
Stairlifts use low‑energy rechargeable batteries and are very cheap to run. A standard straight stairlift on an average staircase uses around 30–35 kWh per year, which is roughly £10–£15 in electricity a year. An average 70/30 fridge freezer might cost around £55–£95 per year to run as a comparison.
Stairlifts use power for short periods and consume less energy than many common household appliances.
Can I get grants or funding for a stairlift?
You may be able to get support through Disabled Facilities Grants or local schemes, depending on your needs and finances.
Your council, occupational therapist or local charities can advise on what help is available and how to apply.
What happens during a home assessment?
A qualified moving and handling assessor visits your home to look at your stairs, bathroom, bedroom and seating, and to talk about how you move around.
They measure key areas, gain an understanding of your environment, check power supplies and listen to your goals so they can suggest the safest and most practical equipment. As we are not tied to a specific manufacturer, you can be reassured that the advice is impartial.
How long does stairlift installation take?
Most straight stairlifts can be installed in a few hours once the equipment is ready.
Curved stairlifts take longer to manufacture but are usually fitted in a single visit, with full user training and handover before the engineer leaves.
What about my mobility once I am upstairs?
A stairlift solves the stair problem, but we believe in supporting our customers holistically, looking at your overall mobility needs and whole home environment for long‑term safety and independence. You may still need help with getting in and out of the bath or bed, or sitting up comfortably to watch TV.
Bath lifts, grab rails, profiling beds and bedroom seating can be added to create a complete safe‑living plan.
How can a riser–recliner chair help downstairs?
If you struggle to stand from your armchair or have swollen ankles, a riser–recliner can make standing and sitting much easier.
These chairs lift you gently towards a standing position and can raise your legs, which supports independence and comfort.
Is it better to move to a bungalow or adapt my home?
Moving home can be costly, stressful and disruptive, and suitable bungalows are often hard to find and more expensive.
For many people, adding a stairlift and other simple adaptations is a more affordable way to stay safe in the home and community they know, with much less disruption.
What maintenance does a stairlift need?
A yearly preventative maintenance service by a qualified engineer helps keep a stairlift safe and reliable. This ensures the piece of equipment you rely on most is likely to be available when required. Out‑of‑hours support is available to customers who take advantage of this essential service.
Extra checks may be advised if the lift is used very often or if the user is particularly vulnerable.
What happens if the power goes off?
Most stairlifts run on batteries that are kept charged from the mains, so they can usually make several trips during a power cut.
If the batteries run flat, the lift will stop until the power is back and the batteries can recharge. An annual service includes a battery check to keep you informed of its capacity.
How do I choose the right stairlift provider?
Ensure that the company offers several brands, a full home assessment by a qualified, trained member of staff, and clear, no‑pressure advice. Also look for an company that’s a members of the British Health Trades Association (BHTA) & conforms to standards set by a code of practice endorsed by Chartered Trading Standards Institute.
Check reviews, ask about warranties, servicing and out‑of‑hours emergency support or call‑outs, and see whether they also support bathroom and seating equipment.
