How To Tell A Loved One They Need A Stairlift
Have you noticed that a loved one’s mobility is starting to change?
Is it time to bring up the possibility of a stairlift?
Are you wondering how to start that conversation?
Well, you’ve come to the right place – here’s our advice for starting the conversation about a stairlift with a loved one.
Be aware of the signs
As our loved ones get older, we may start to notice that their physical mobility is beginning to change. This could be anything from becoming a bit off-balance to an increased amount of time spent getting from A to B.
Whilst there may be nothing to worry about, there’s no harm in doing a little research around the changes occurring.
By making yourself more aware of the signs of needing a stairlift, you can discuss the potential solution with a loved one more openly. For example, if they are at an increased risk of falling, a stairlift could be a huge source of reassurance in the house.
If you want to familiarise yourself more with some of the signs for needing a stairlift, this post is a great start!
Research stairlifts
Before starting a conversation about stairlifts with a loved one, you’ll want to have done your research.
These conversations can seem daunting, so knowing your facts is important.
So why not invest more time into studying what your loved one really needs?
From the style of stairlift (shape and size) to the additional extras that they can request. You can also use our services to compare prices and find the best rate for your loved one’s needs.
By having a good level of knowledge behind you, you can confidently approach the conversation, and answer any questions your loved one may have.
Discuss the future more frequently
Having open and honest conversations with our elders about the future is a positive and productive habit to get into!
We can open up the possibility of having additional assistance without putting any pressure on the individual.
Rather than broaching the topic of stairlifts out of nowhere, they can become a more regular point of daily conversation. These conversations around stairlifts can become a topic where everyone’s opinion is listened to, and nothing has to be done immediately.
The idea is on the table, and as your loved ones get older, the conversation may naturally shift from stairlifts being a potential to becoming a necessity.
Being familiar and warm to the idea of a stairlift from an early stage will make conversations down the line a lot easier.
Be sensitive
Being sensitive, and aware of our loved one’s feelings is always important.
It’s even more important when it comes to broaching the need for a little more assistance.
When you come to discuss the idea of a stairlift, the best thing to do is to ease them into it.
Bring up stairlifts and their benefits, but be prepared to pause the conversation if your loved one isn’t ready to discuss it just yet.
Coming to terms with needing extra help, can be difficult for independent elders to discuss. It’s important to educate, and show the benefits that a stairlift can have, whilst respecting initial reservations.
Pick the right time
Timing is everything.
When you eventually come to have the conversation about the need for a stairlift, you want it to be a positive and uplifting one for both sides.
Be sensitive of the timing, and find an appropriate moment to raise the suggestion. The conversation should naturally flow from this point.
There may never feel like an ‘easy’ time to bring up a stairlift, but there will be a right time.
It’s time to have the conversation
All that’s left to do is talk.
Remember, this conversation is coming from a place of love.
You want your loved ones to have a great quality of life, and this is something a stairlift could offer them.
If you’re ready to broach the conversation of a stairlift, you can find out a few more interesting stats and facts about them here!
