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Stairs are an everyday problem for wheelchair users and people with limited mobility that need to be overcome.
On the one hand, stairs are restrictive – spatially, but also emotionally. Because if you feel restricted in your own home, you lose a bit of quality of life.
However, stair climbing devices are the right solution to be able to participate fully in life again.
A stair climber is a stair climbing aid for anyone with limited walking function and people in wheelchairs to climb stairs and steps.
The stair climber is used to climb the stairs either in a seated position or while walking if the person is still able to walk. In a seated position, a carer must control the device.
Stair climbers can be divided into several types:
A stair climber is a stair climbing device for wheelchair users who have to climb straight stairs up to a maximum incline of 35°. These devices glide over the steps thanks to the worm gear and must be guided by an assistant.There are also stairclimbers that wheelchair users can operate themselves. The
wheelchair is firmly hooked onto the device. The wheelchair is propelled by the so-called caterpillar tracks, which do not slip away due to their ribbing on the steps, but instead move up or down step by step.
The stairclimber requires no effort as the drive is electronic. The stairclimber is equipped with a rechargeable battery and a charger. Its own weight is approximately 47 kg and the maximum load capacity is 130 kg.
The stairclimber requires a minimum staircase width of 70 cm.
Depending on the design and model, the stair caterpillars cost between €4,500 and €10,000.
Advantages
Staircase scrapers help to make your multi-storey flat or house accessible again. The number of floors does not matter.
If you are an active wheelchair user, you can operate the crawler stair climber yourself and go up or down steps independently.
No structural changes are required to use the device.
Some models are lightweight and are suitable for transporting in the car and taking with you on holiday, for example.
Disadvantages
A stairclimber is not suitable for all staircases. A thorough inspection is required before purchase. A stair width of 70 cm or more must be available to ensure proper functioning.
A caterpillar stairclimber cannot be used on steep stairs, such as those often found in old buildings. A gradient of 35° is the maximum.
A stair caterpillar can only be used on straight stairs, as curved stairs cannot be mastered without a platform for stair caterpillars as they lack the necessary support.
A crawler stair climber requires plenty of space for turning at the entrance and exit of the stairs, as well as for manoeuvring with your own wheelchair and for storage.
Some designs are associated with very high costs, sometimes up to approx. 10,000 euros.
Most stair climbers require an assistant to operate them. This means that the person concerned is always dependent on help.
Confidence plays a major role when purchasing a stairclimber. When using a stairclimber, you sit with your back to the stairs. This can feel unnatural.
There is also no attachment along the wall of the stair caterpillar to provide additional support and safety.
Risk of accident if operated incorrectly.
Stair climbers are useful aids for wheelchair users or people with limited mobility.
The stair climber can be used to climb straight and curved stairs in a seated position.
Like the stairclimber, however, the stair climber requires an assistant to operate the device.
Both stair climbing aids make it possible for people with limited mobility to move around their own four walls – without barriers.
For people who are not dependent on a wheelchair and still have sufficient walking ability, there is the TOPRO Step stair climber.
Stair climbers can be divided into two types: the stair climber with integrated seat and the stair climber for wheelchairs.
Advantages
Stairs can be climbed safely, easily and without great effort.
easy operation by an assistant.
is suitable for any staircase shape.
Flexible: no fixed installation, can be conveniently taken along.
Disadvantages
an assistant is always required – no independence.
more suitable for nursing homes or retirement homes with carers.
Risk of accident if operated incorrectly.
The TOPRO Step stair climber is a revolutionary new development in the field of accessibility and mobility aids for people with limited walking function.
The stair climber provides the necessary support and secures you when climbing stairs so that you can remain independent and active.
The mechanical stairclimber consists of a handrail and a grab rail. The grab rail is attached to the handrail and moves along the rail system during use. The rail system is mounted on the wall along the staircase.
It has a patented locking mechanism that prevents you from slipping or falling on the stairs. As soon as pressure is applied to the grab rail, it locks.
The stair climber is made from high-quality, sustainable materials such as stainless steel and anodised aluminium and takes up very little space as it only protrudes 18 cm from the wall when folded.
Advantages
Disadvantages
“How much does a stair climbing aid cost?” is certainly one of the first questions you ask yourself when you think about adapting your home.
As with stairlifts, the price is usually customised and depends on various factors. As TOPRO Step is a module-based system, it does not have to be completely customised to your staircase.
Some factors that influence the price are, for example
Unfortunately, it is not possible to give an all-inclusive price for the stair climbing aid due to the factors mentioned above.
TOPRO Step information video
To carry out an on-site inspection and receive a quote, make an appointment with us. Once you have accepted the quote, we will carry out the installation, which usually only takes a few hours.
TOPRO Step is TÜV-tested and certified and meets all functional and safety requirements.
TOPRO Step is designed so that it can be easily adapted to your staircase. It can be installed on straight stairs, curved stairs and stairs with a landing.
Ask your health insurance company about the possibility of cost coverage or possible subsidies. Please note that these options are country-specific and individual.
TOPRO Step means TOPRO quality. When you buy a TOPRO Step, you receive a guarantee of up to 5 years.
We measure success by satisfied customers, which is our top priority. We already have over 4,000 satisfied users throughout Europe.
Choose your TOPRO Step
Would you like a free inspection or a no-obligation quote? Contact us and we’ll take care of the rest.
Do you have any questions or would you like to test the TOPRO Step stair climber?
We have compiled all frequently asked questions on the FAQ page
Would you like to find out more about the financing options for the TOPRO Step?
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