With the variety of home design, one of the constant problems faced by Occupational Therapist sis how to prescribe solutions that enable a client to still access all levels of their home.
The quick answer is, suggests AAT GB, provision of one of its Class 1 medical device classified Mobility Stairclimbers. The German-engineered battery-powered kinematic unit can either incorporate a seat, replicating the support of a wheelchair, or be attached to most common types of wheelchair. The unit smoothly powers up and down stairs, safely transferring the patient from one level to another. It is robust enough to carry even the morbidly obese, yet designed to facilitate operation by the slightest of carers, When not required, it folds compactly away.
With the addition of the Universal Back accessory, the one combination can meet most client needs, regardless of age or size of the client. And the need- whether short or long term, can be met easily, usually from stores, and re-issued.
“So often, we are called in as a last resort, when we could be the first thought. Significant time and effort has already been spent trying to go with the conventional solution of a stairlift or through-floor lift, but the orientation or size of the interior makes it impractical,” observes AAT Sales Director Peter Wingrave. “Our stairclimbers have been purpose-designed to be able to accommodate most staircases- even those with restricted width or turns. They do not require structural alterations to the home, they do not need furniture to be relocated, the interior to be repurposed, nor do they impinge on other members of the household’s ability to use the stairs.
“That all has a big impact on a physical and mental wellbeing of a client- and their family- in their daily life. Whether it’s a short-term fix whilst a major adaptation is undertaken, or to resolve a long-term problem, a stairclimber is the obvious answer to minimise risk in transfer between floors without disruption.”
“We’ve already had a number of Occupational Therapists approach us, needing a solution to help a patient with reduced mobility return home. A stairclimber enables them to still access their home without the major disruption to rooms and other resident family members- and possible cost- of having to move existing, or buy specialist, furniture. I see this as a significant solution in the ongoing battle with bed blocking in hospitals”
AAT’s nationwide team of specialists can work alongside the Occupational Therapist to assess- free of charge- the suitability of a stairclimber for the property, the patient, and their carer(s). AAT can manage the whole process, from specification of any additional accessories if needed, supply of the equipment, and training of the carer who will operate the climber, ensuring a correct and safe assessment.
Adds Peter Wingrave, “It’s about best value, not just in monetary terms but mental health & wellbeing too, for everyone involved. A stairclimber minimises the impact on every level.”
