A couple weeks ago, I interviewed my neurologist, Dr. Martin Wagner. While we were talking, he brought up a point that made me re-think my own situation.
He mentioned that he was treating one of his patients for Parkinson’s disease and he had cautioned him to prepare his home for his own safety. Apparently, the patient had a two-level home and used the stairs to go between levels. One particular evening as the patient was preparing to come downstairs, his leg weakness caused him to lose his footing and fall to his death.
Horror stories such as these can be easily avoided. If you have difficulty walking or balancing, or have any type of leg weakness, ask a family member, neighbor, friend, or caregiver to help you retrieve needed items from other floors of your home. Make sure there are clutter free pathways in your home so you won’t trip over items on the floor.
If you really don’t want to stop accessing the other floors of your home, there are companies that offer “stair lifts” that allow people to safely traverse stairs. By looking through the yellow pages, calling the Better Business Bureau, or searching on the Internet, you can find numerous companies to choose from when ordering a stair lift. Some companies provide elevators, wheelchair lifts, dumbwaiters, and more. Installing these aids will not only provide a safer home for you but also add value to your home!
In any event, take the time to decide which alternative best works for you and your family. The cost of a stair lift is a small price to pay for your health and well-being.