Buying A Home Elevator
Added on October 6th, 2016
Are you planning on “aging in place”? Aging in place refers to those seniors that elect to enjoy the independence and security that comes from living in their own homes as long as they are able. If that sounds like you, you’re not alone; according to AARP, 87 percent of seniors are now doing just that.
If you are looking forward to staying in your home for the long term, you should know that 2.5 million seniors are hospitalized each year due to falls. But the risk of falling – like many other common in-home risks – can be greatly reduced by taking a few simple, precautionary steps.
Installing a residential elevator is a great way to reduce the risk of falling. Better still, in-home elevators are surprisingly affordable and many on the market are now so compact, they require minimal modifications to your home to install.
What to Look for When Buying an Elevator
All elevators can get you from one floor to the next, but not all models and manufacturers are created equal. If you’re in the market for a residential elevator, consider this checklist before buying.
Residential Elevator Safety checklist
If your goal is minimal disruption and affordable, quick installation, look for an elevator with a lift mechanism that is self-contained and compact.
Next, look for the following safety features:
- An elevator with a door that glides along a track. Doors that fold outward or are constructed in an “accordion” style may catch while the elevator is in motion. This can damage the lift, door, or worse, leave the device stuck between floors. Gliding doors minimize this risk .
- Speaking of getting stuck: although this is a rare phenomenon, you should select a model that has the ability to be manually lowered so you can safely exit the cab, should it stall.
- Also, select an elevator that can operate even if the power goes out. Some models come with backup battery units to use during power outages. Better still, select a lift that offers full battery power to ensure no service disruptions.
- Look for an elevator that offers a phone connection to your land line. This provides not only convenience but another safety measure as well.
- Select an elevator with sensors to alert you to any obstructions above or below the cab.
- Sensors are important, but you should also select an elevator that offers fail-safe features that prevent operation if any especially risk factors are detected, such as an unlocked door or other operational issues.
- Buy an elevator that puts you in control. You’ll want control buttons in the cab, in addition to control buttons on each floor.
Get Expert Advice
If you or a loved one plan on aging in place, installing a residential elevator is a great way to ensure you can access your entire home – from top to bottom.
Like to know more about steps you can take to minimize the risk around your home as you age in place? Be sure to download our new, informative guide, Safe Home. Happy Home. It’s chock full of informative tips to keep you and your loved ones safe.