Case study: Stairclimber prescription improves quality of life for stroke patient and family

The health and wellbeing of a stroke patient, and her family, has been transformed by the prescription of a stairclimber from AAT, which was funded through her local authority.

The Kaviraj family live in East London in a block of flats with no lift. When Mrs Kaviraj had a stroke five years ago, she was left disabled and unable to walk. As a result, she could not get out and was confined to the home.

Her main carers, her elderly husband and daughter, were becoming increasingly worried about her mental health and wellbeing, which in turn affected their health.

Mrs Kaviraj’s lead physiotherapist knew of AAT and its range of stairclimbers and suggested one may benefit the family. An AAT S-Max stairclimber was funded and provided via the local authority.

Five years on, the mobility aid is still used regularly. It safely and reliably transfers Mrs Kaviraj up and down the stairs and out, having been serviced each year to maintain its performance.

“The Stairclimber has been such an asset to us as a family,” said the daughter, Chandrika. “This piece of equipment has allowed my mum to have a better quality of life, and helped her wellbeing. But it has also helped with the wellbeing of us, her carers, too. it means we all feel there is a real sense of freedom.

“You can’t put a price on this sort of liberation. This will definitely help anyone who values wellbeing and freedom.

“As for the maintenance – AAT is brilliant.  We’ve had the equipment for some time, and it really is maintained very well.  You never feel as though you’re a burden and have always been met with considerate staff and a level of expertise that is outstanding.  Believe me, this makes a difference when you’re juggling lots.”

Class I medical device-classified, the battery-powered stairclimber smoothly moves up and down stairs, safely transferring its passenger from one level to another, executing 300 steps from one battery charge. Options include a frame fitted to a wheelchair, or a standalone unit complete with seat.

The rate of movement is completely controlled by the person operating it, who receives full training from AAT as part of the assessment and provision process. The stairclimber’s high balance point, light weight and manoeuvrability mean it requires little effort to control and steer. When not in use, the stairclimber can be folded away, optimising living space.

AAT has a comprehensive range of options for stairclimbers, which include wheeled, tracked, power packs, stairclimbers that attach to a wheelchair or incorporate an integral seat, and that can accommodate tight and/or turning staircases.