A Nostalgic Look At Stairlifts Santa Monica

| Monday, September 24, 2012
By Patrice McCoy


Stairlifts Santa Monica became a symbol of graceful aging courtesy of the 1960s television program, 'The Farmer's Daughter, ' starring William Windom as a recently widowed Congressman, Glen Morley, with two young sons. English actress Cathleen Nesbitt, CBE, played the role of his elegant live-in mother and Inge Stevens portrayed the character of Katy Holstrum, housekeeper from Minnesota, herself the daughter of a farmer. The well-to-do Congressman had a stairlift installed in his home and viewers were often treated to the sight of his mother using it.

The program was shown between 1963 and 1966. Its second season drew four Emmy nominations for directing, writing, acting and program achievement. Inger Stevens also won a Golden Globe Award. We may never know how much the program influenced the market for stair lifts, but it is tempting to believe it made a contribution.

America's first stair lifts were manufactured and sold by the Inclinator Company in the 1930s. Many early users had polio. Stair lifts were capable of transporting both individuals and wheelchairs up and down the household staircase, be it straight or curved.

Credit for actually inventing the contraption went to C. C. Crispen, an engineer from the state of Pennsylvania. However, evidence has recently been brought to light that suggests that a crude version of the device was invented by none other than King Henry VIII of England. While today's stair lifts are attached to a rail installed on the stairs, King Henry was raised and lowered by his servants via a block and tackle arrangement at the Palace of Whitehall in London.

The catalyst for King Henry VIII's invention of the stair lift was not polio in his case, but rather an unfortunate jousting accident in which he had suffered an injury. Weighing in as he did at 420 pounds, it is possible that this, too, was a factor in his difficulty ascending and descending the palace stairs.

In the 21st Century, polio is far less of a problem than it was 100 years ago. Now, typical stair lift users are suffering from arthritis, heart complaints or simply advancing years. Installing a stair lift can help someone who is elderly or disabled to retain their independence in the comfort and familiarity of their own home.

Stair lifts can cost in the region of four figures. Before making a financial commitment of that size, it is a good idea to have an occupational therapist visit you in your home to assess your needs. They will also be able to give you a more unbiased opinion than a sales agent.

There are several different types of stairlifts Santa Monica. For indoor use, a straight stairlift may be all you need. If, however, you have a curved staircase, then you may need to consider a curved stair lift. An outdoor stairlift, with a weatherproof cover, can help you or your relative climb steps leading up to the front door of the house.




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