Mrs Knight: A home lift gave me independence

Fed up with uncomfortable nights spent sleeping downstairs on the sofa, Mrs. Knight contacted Terry Lifts seeking a solution to make it easier for her to go up and down the stairs in her home and give her back her independence.

“Suffering from Fibromyalgia, Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome and Lymphoedema, meant getting around was a struggle,” she explains. “Although I’d previously had a stair lift installed, I was unable to use it as I couldn’t bend my legs fully. This meant my only option was to have my husband carry me upstairs.”

When her occupational therapist recommended looking at Terry Lifts, she was happy to follow her advice. As she began researching, she quickly realised that a home lift from Terry Lifts would provide her with the best value in terms of quality, product safety and compliance with standards.

“I also really liked that they were manufactured here in the UK,” she added.

She has since installed a Harmony wheelchair lift in the dining room, allowing her to reach her bedroom.

“Before I got my lift, I had to sleep downstairs on the sofa, which was not good for me. If I tried to climb the stairs, I was at risk of falling. If I ever did go upstairs, it was only with help from my husband. However, the Harmony Home Lift has changed everything. It fits in perfectly and doesn’t interfere with the children’s bedrooms,” says Mrs. Knight.

“To be honest, having the Harmony Home Lift installed has been completely life changing. I can be independent and do things I couldn’t before, I don’t need to rely on my husband for everything. I can take my son upstairs to bed if my husband is out, and I can carry washing up on my lap…it’s made a massive difference. I can truly be a proper mum again. It also means that should the time come when I need to use my wheelchair in the house, I can.”

The installation of the home lift was easy and straightforward, and Mrs Knight was delighted by the professionalism of Terry Lifts’ team: “The builders and the engineer were brilliant. They worked so hard and were very tidy. They were always on time and showed up when they were supposed to. I felt like I could trust them completely. They’re a real credit to the company”

Now, thanks to the Harmony Home Lift, Mrs Knight has her independence back, can put her little boy to bed – and enjoy a great night’s sleep in her own bedroom.

Maintaining your home lift – and your independence

Once you’ve had your home lift installed, make sure you look after it by following regular maintenance and servicing to keep it working at its best for years to come. We advise the following periodic (weekly) checks of the safety features built into your home lift. These checks should be carried out with the lift unoccupied.

Safe edges checks 

Carriage sides and door upper surface 

• With the lift at the lower level, press the ‘UP’ button on the wall station, when
• the lift starts to ascend press downwards on carriage side upper surface, the
• lift should stop. Lower the lift to the floor level and repeat the operation with the
• other carriage side door.

Carriage underpan surface

• With the lift at approximately eye level press the ‘DOWN’ button on the wall
• station, when the lift starts to descend press upwards on the carriage
• underpan, the lift should stop. Raise the lift and if possible, repeat the operation
• on the opposite side of the lift.

By following these routine maintenance tips, you’ll keep your lift in optimal condition, ensuring it remains a reliable and safe mobility solution. However, even with regular maintenance, home lifts can encounter common issues.

Servicing

Dependent on frequency of use, your home lift should be serviced at least every 12 months. An approved Terry Lifts service engineer should carry out this service. If you’re concerned, call a professional to ensure your home lift remains safe, reliable and fully operational.

For more tips on maintaining your home lift, please refer to your home lift user manual.