We found the Assistep stair walker online and think it makes a great alternative to a stairlift. If you want to stay mobile on the stairs, it’s a great option, if suitable. We also did a recent post on the StairSteady which is a similar product. Here you can see the Assistep (also known as the Topro step) pictured left and the StairSteady (pictured right).
Assistep Stair Walker – A Stairlift Alternative
Both the Assistep stair walker and the StairSteady are similar products both allowing the user to climb and descend the stairs with assistance. When weight is applied to the hand rail, it locks in place, giving you the support needed to climb/descend the stairs comfortably. Without pressure the rail can slide up or down the side rail freely, allowing you to move unencumbered.
So if you’re not quite ready for a stairlift, either of these two stairlifts alternatives might work for you or your loved one.
Should You Buy A Stairlift Or A Climbing Rail?
You might choose a stair climbing rail if you want to remain mobile and continue to gain the benefits of exercise on the stairs. It is advisable for some people to continue to use their own muscles and strength as much as possible. Once you stop exercising, muscles deteriorate much more quickly and you’ll eventually lose the capacity to use your body over time, if you no longer use it. “Use it or lose it”, as the expression goes!
On the other hand, if you are going to be unsteady with a rail, and it poses a risk to your health, it’s worth going with a stairlift. A stairlift can give you the peace of mind that your loved one is safer on the stairs, if it’s an issue. After all, over 60% of accident-related deaths among the elderly are due to falls involving stairs – according to The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).
A moving hand rail might be a good solution to someone who is capable, but has a temporary injury or illness. For older adults who have deteriorating health conditions, a stairlift might be a safer option in some instances. Getting advice from an occupational therapist is recommended.
There’s also the consideration of cost too. If a moving rail is only going to work for the short term, and you’ll eventually need a stairlift anyway, it might be better going straight for a stairlift to save costs in the long run.
How Much Is The Assistep Stair Walker?
We found the Assistep priced at £2,200 online with a bit of a search. However, this is likely to vary depending on installation fee and your individual staircase. With a more complicated or curved staircase, this cost will likely rise.
As with stairlifts, prices depend on your staircase. Our stairlifts start at £1,250 by comparison, (for a reconditioned straight stairlift). For more complicated staircases, such as with curved stairs, our prices start at £2,950 for a reconditioned model.
Summary
So, is it worth getting a moving hand rail if you or a loved one are unsteady on the stairs? Keeping fit and exercising regularly is a good idea and if the only exercise you get is in the house, it is definitely a consideration.
However, if you have become afraid of using the stairs, and/or your condition is likely to worsen over time, a stairlift might be a safer option. As people age their bones become more brittle and they are therefore more susceptible to injuries which can be more devastating.
A stair fall can be life-changing so it’s important to talk your needs over with an occupational therapist who can advise you on the best decision for your health and safety in the home.
If you want to speak with one of our team about a stairlift, give us a call on 0800 046 3438 or visit our contact page and leave us a message.
You can also visit our YouTube channel here and see some of our installations.