When to Use a Step Stool with Handrail
Have you ever wondered about when the best time to use a step stool with handrail for seniors, the elderly or those with mobility issues would be?
Let's take a look at why you would need a step stool reinforced with a handrail by using an example of a popular model that's on the market right now:
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Fear of Falling
Do you constantly find yourself needing to reach up to something, for example that's on a high shelf and there's nothing suitable for you to step up onto?
Are you guilty of grabbing the nearest chair to stand on, even though you know deep down that it might be a risky thing to do?
So many people, especially older and infirm folks, lose their balance and fall off a chair when doing just that!
The consequences of a heavy fall like that could result in a broken hip or other bone that could render you immobile for several months following the surgery that you'd likely need to set it right.
If you are an older person or have mobility issues and would not feel safe standing on a chair to do something as seemingly simple as reaching for a jar of honey on a high shelf, a robust step stool would alleviate that fear.
As an affiliate of The Wright Stuff I receive commission for qualifying sales
Adjust-A-Step Deluxe Step Stool with Handrail
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Here is a simple, yet clever solution to taking unnecessary risks when standing on a chair to reach something up high.
This bariatric model has an adjustable platform with three height settings, featuring a heavy-duty design and high weight capacity of 750 pounds and a steadying handrail for stability and safety.
This all-steel construction stool provides you with peace of mind thanks to its increased safety, reliability and durability of design.
You can read full details and purchase this stool from The Wright Stuff by clicking the link below the image of the item to the right.
Safety and Stability
A step stool fitted with a handrail provides added safety and stability when the need arises to reach high places.
A handrail equipped step stool is also useful when getting in or out of vehicles, high chairs or high beds or climbing up or getting off a platform.
This special equipment provides need extra support when people need it, especially the elderly or those with mobility issues and most have an ergonomic design for ease of use and comfort.
A Step Stool for a Purpose
A step stool provides a safe and stable platform when you need to access those hard-to-reach places around the home.
They really come into their own when changing a lightbulb, painting the ceiling, or reaching for an item up on a high shelf. Step stools can be found in a variety of styles, each with its own specific benefits.
Handrails fitted to a sturdy step stool offer added support for the user, ensuring steady balance and thereby reducing the risk of falls.
This feature makes it ideal for children, someone with limited mobility, the elderly, or anyone who needs additional assistance. The compact design of these items makes for easy storage when not in use.
A non-slip surface along with secure foot grips raise user confidence.
What Should Never be Used as a Step Stool?
It can happen when a situation arises when you need to access a high object and the temptation to use an alternative to step on occurs.
Objects that you may be inclined to step on include a chair, coffee table, box, filing cabinet, bin or even fixed or free standing shelves. However, none of these are suitable replacements for a step stool since they and not meant to be used as such.
The reason why the above items should not be used to step up onto is because they may not be stable or robust enough to take your weight and may collapse or tip over. This may cause you to fall and potentially injure yourself.
Rules for Step Stools
Here is some advice on when it is appropriate to use a step stool for a purpose.
- Always face the stool when climbing up or down
- Position the stool close enough to the intended work so you can reach it comfortably
- Step stools should be used by only one person at a time
- Step stools should only be used on a floor with a flat surface
- Ensure the stool is rated to support the weight of the task
- The step stool's base must be spread fully open and if fitted, with the spreaders locked
- Ensure any locking mechanism is fully engaged before climbing
- Set up and use the step stool adhering to the manufacturer's instructions
Summary
It's not easy to place a price on safety and peace of mind when undertaking a simple task that requires you to leave the safety of the floor to reach up for things.
However, for the price of a sturdy step stool with a handrail for elderly people, you could save yourself from risking many months of misery and pain, not to mention hospital bills that a heavy fall could bring about.
Don't risk falling off a chair or anything else that's not designed to be stood on just to reach up for something that just out of reach. Get yourself a sturdy step stool like the one featured above and enjoy peace of mind instead!
- Terry Didcott
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Posted on Mon, 31 March 2025 in Mobility | 0 Comments