Blog

Mobility Aids

Can Electric Wheelchairs Get Wet? Safety Tips You Need to Know

5Apr2024

Electric wheelchairs are designed with some weather resistance, but prolonged exposure to rain or moisture can damage sensitive electrical components. While most modern powerchairs can handle light rain briefly, they aren’t fully waterproof and require proper protection to ensure longevity and safe operation.

Understanding Water Resistance in Electric Wheelchairs

Modern electric wheelchairs typically have an IP rating (Ingress Protection) that indicates their level of water resistance. Most powerchairs have basic splash protection, meaning they can withstand light moisture but shouldn’t be submerged or exposed to heavy rain. The electrical components—including the battery, motor, controller, and wiring—are vulnerable to water damage that can cause malfunctions, corrosion, or complete system failure.

How to Protect Your Electric Wheelchair from Rain

Invest in Quality Waterproof Covers

Purchase wheelchair-specific rain covers or canopies that protect both you and your mobility device. Look for covers with sealed seams and materials that fully enclose the control panel, battery compartment, and motor housing.

Plan Around Weather Conditions

Check weather forecasts before heading out and avoid traveling during heavy rain or storms. If you must go out in wet conditions, plan your route to include covered areas and indoor spaces where you can take shelter.

Apply Protective Coatings

Use electronic-grade waterproofing sprays on exposed connections and terminals. Silicone-based products can help repel water from vulnerable areas, but ensure any product you use is safe for electronic components.

Perform Regular Maintenance Checks

Inspect your powerchair monthly for signs of moisture damage, including corrosion on battery terminals, rust on metal components, or water in the battery compartment. Clean and dry any damp areas immediately and address issues before they escalate.

Store Your Wheelchair Properly

Keep your electric wheelchair in a dry, climate-controlled space when not in use. Avoid storage in damp garages or outdoor sheds where condensation can accumulate overnight.

What to Do If Your Wheelchair Gets Wet

If your electric wheelchair is exposed to rain, dry it thoroughly as soon as possible. Wipe down all surfaces, pay special attention to the control panel and battery area, and allow it to air dry completely before use. If water has entered electrical components, have your wheelchair inspected by a qualified technician before operating it again.

Ready to Explore Mobility Solutions?

At Irish Stairlifts, we understand the importance of reliable, weather-appropriate mobility equipment. Visit our showroom in Clane, Co. Kildare, to see our range of electric wheelchairs and discuss protective accessories with our mobility experts. Schedule your appointment today to find the perfect powerchair solution for Irish weather conditions.

Top Advantages of Wetrooms for Safer Living

21Mar2024

Wetrooms aren’t just a design trend—they’re transforming how Irish homeowners approach bathroom accessibility and safety. With 68% of homeowners now prioritizing accessibility features in bathroom renovations, wetrooms have become the gold standard for creating safe, stylish, and future-proof spaces.

Barrier-Free Access for Everyone

The standout feature of wetrooms is their level-access design that eliminates steps and thresholds entirely. Unlike traditional bathrooms with raised shower trays that create trip hazards, wetrooms provide seamless floor-level access that’s ideal for wheelchair users, individuals with mobility challenges, and aging-in-place homeowners. This barrier-free approach makes daily routines easier for people of all ages and abilities, from young children to elderly family members.

Enhanced Safety Features

Safety concerns drive many wetroom installations, and for good reason. 80% of bathroom accidents involve slips, trips, and falls, with over 235,000 people requiring emergency treatment annually for bathroom-related injuries. Wetrooms address these risks through multiple safety features:

Non-slip flooring materials that reduce fall risk even when wet
Grab rails and support bars that provide stability without compromising design
Integrated shower seats for comfortable, secure bathing
Thermostatic controls that prevent scalding with automatic temperature regulation

These features make wetrooms safer than traditional bathrooms, particularly for households with elderly members where injury rates peak after age 85.

Freedom of Movement and Independence

Wetrooms offer unmatched space and maneuverability, especially important for those using mobility aids like wheelchairs, walkers, or walking frames. The open-plan design eliminates tight corners and restrictive enclosures, allowing caregivers to assist when needed without spatial constraints. This spacious layout empowers individuals to maintain their independence and dignity while managing daily hygiene routines safely.

Customizable Design Options

Modern wetrooms blend accessibility with aesthetic appeal, dispelling the myth that accessible bathrooms must look institutional. Homeowners can choose from contemporary minimalist designs, traditional styles with natural stone, or spa-inspired wellness retreats. Popular 2025 design elements include:

Rainfall showerheads for a luxurious bathing experience
Natural materials like travertine and textured tiles
Chromotherapy lighting to enhance mood and wellbeing
Smart technology integration with voice-activated controls

This flexibility ensures your wetroom reflects your personal style while prioritizing functionality and safety.

Future-Proofing Your Irish Home

Investing in a wetroom adds long-term value to your property as the accessible shower room market is projected to grow at 7% annually through 2033, reflecting increasing demand for age-friendly housing. Homes with accessibility features like wetrooms appeal to a broader range of buyers and meet evolving building standards. With installation costs in Ireland typically ranging from €3,500 to €10,000, wetrooms represent a smart investment in both quality of life and property value.

Ready to Transform Your Bathroom?

Irish Stairlifts specializes in creating accessible, stylish wetrooms that enhance safety and independence. Our bathroom installations serve Dublin, Offaly, Meath, Louth, Wicklow, Kildare, and Carlow.

Contact us today for a free quotation and discover how a wetroom can transform your home.

View our wetroom and accessible bathroom gallery here

Mobility Aids

Are Rollators Allowed on Planes? Travel Guide

8Mar2024

4 Wheel Lightweight Rollator

Traveling by air with a rollator is fully permitted by airlines, and understanding current regulations ensures a smooth journey. Most carriers welcome mobility aids on board, though specific policies vary by airline and aircraft type.

Understanding Airline Rollator Policies

Airlines must accommodate passengers traveling with rollators under disability access regulations. Your rollator can typically travel as a carry-on item, checked baggage, or gate-checked equipment at no additional charge. Contact your airline at least 48 hours before departure to notify them of your mobility aid—this allows ground staff to prepare appropriate assistance and ensure adequate storage space.

Size limitations vary by carrier and aircraft. Standard rollators that fold to approximately 22″ x 14″ x 9″ usually qualify as carry-on items. Larger models may require gate-checking, where staff store your rollator in the cargo hold and return it immediately upon landing.

Preparing Your Rollator for Air Travel

Documentation and Labeling: Attach durable tags displaying your name, phone number, and destination address to your rollator. Photograph your device before travel to document its condition. Remove or secure loose accessories like baskets, pouches, or trays that could detach during handling.

Battery Considerations: If your rollator includes electronic features, verify battery type with your airline. Most standard alkaline batteries pose no restrictions, but lithium batteries may require special handling or removal.

Folding Practice: Master folding and unfolding your rollator quickly. Airport security and boarding procedures move efficiently when you can collapse your device smoothly. Time yourself folding your rollator in under 30 seconds for optimal travel readiness.

Airport and In-Flight Procedures

Arrive at least 2-3 hours before international flights and 90 minutes before domestic departures. Request wheelchair assistance during booking if needed—this service helps you navigate security checkpoints while staff transport your rollator separately.

At security screening, you’ll walk through the metal detector while your rollator passes through X-ray scanning. TSA PreCheck membership expedites this process. Request a private screening if you need to demonstrate your rollator’s functionality.

During boarding, flight attendants will assist storing your rollator in the cabin closet, overhead bin, or arrange gate-checking. Keep essential items like medications in a separate bag rather than your rollator’s storage compartments.

International Travel Considerations

European Union regulations under EC 1107/2006 guarantee free mobility aid transport on all EU flights. Similar protections exist in the UK, Australia, and Canada. Research destination country requirements, as some nations mandate advance notification or specific documentation.

Connecting flights require coordination between airlines. Confirm your rollator transfers with you, especially when switching carriers. Allow minimum 90-minute connections for domestic transfers and 2+ hours internationally.

Travel Insurance and Damage Protection

Standard travel insurance often excludes mobility equipment. Purchase specialized mobility aid coverage or verify your homeowner’s policy extends protection during travel. Document any damage immediately with airport staff and file claims before leaving the airport.

Airlines accept liability for damaged mobility aids under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) in the United States and equivalent international regulations. Request loaner equipment if your rollator sustains damage requiring repair.

Post-Pandemic Updates

Recent aviation changes have improved disability accommodation. Airlines now offer enhanced pre-boarding for passengers requiring extra time, and many airports have designated mobility aid assembly areas near gates. Digital check-in systems allow you to flag mobility equipment during online booking, ensuring staff prepare appropriate assistance.

Ready to Travel with Confidence?

At Irish Stairlifts, we offer a comprehensive range of lightweight, travel-friendly rollators designed for active lifestyles. Our mobility experts help you select equipment that meets airline requirements while providing the support you need. We serve customers throughout Dublin, Kildare, Leinster, and all of Ireland with professional guidance and quality products.

Explore our complete selection of travel-ready rollators.

3 Wheel Folding Rollator

Accessible Bathrooms

Why Accessible Bathrooms Improve Safety for Disabilities

Acorn Stairlift Straight Stairlift Dublin

30Oct2023

Imagine starting your day with something as simple as getting ready in the morning. For most people, this routine is straightforward. For individuals with disabilities, however, this daily ritual can present significant challenges. The lack of accessibility in bathrooms can create formidable obstacles that diminish quality of life and independence.

Around 16 million individuals in the UK experience disabilities, accounting for nearly 24% of the population. In Ireland and globally, the need for accessible bathroom solutions has never been more critical. This article explores how an accessible bathroom can transform the lives of people with disabilities and why investing in proper bathroom accessibility is essential for dignity, safety, and wellbeing.

Restoring Independence and Dignity

The most significant impact of an accessible bathroom is the restoration of independence and dignity. A bathroom designed to accommodate unique mobility needs empowers individuals to perform personal hygiene tasks without assistance. This means maintaining privacy, reducing dependence on caregivers, and regaining a sense of control over daily life.

Features like grab rails, lower sinks, and spacious layouts create environments where people can carry out self-care duties independently. This independence directly improves both physical health and emotional wellbeing.

Enhanced Mobility and Safety

Accessible bathrooms are designed with critical safety features that reduce accident risks. Essential elements include grab bars strategically placed near toilets and showers, shower seats for comfortable bathing, slip-resistant flooring to prevent falls, and adequate space for wheelchairs or mobility aids to maneuver easily.

These features ensure that individuals with disabilities can move around safely and confidently. The absence of barriers transforms the bathroom into a secure space, free from the fear of falling or getting stuck.

Improved Comfort and Daily Convenience

Comfort plays a vital role in daily life for everyone. An accessible bathroom offers comfort through amenities specifically tailored to individual needs. Modern accessible design trends for 2025 include raised toilet seats (typically 46-48 cm from the floor), adjustable sinks with wheelchair clearance underneath, lever-style faucets for ease of use, walk-in showers with roll-in access, and touch-free technology like motion-activated lighting and smart faucets.

Being able to shower, use the toilet, or wash hands comfortably enhances daily experience and overall wellbeing.

Better Health and Hygiene

Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial for everyone, and accessible bathrooms directly impact the health of individuals with disabilities. Adequate space for wheelchairs or mobility devices, adjustable fixtures, and shower seats make it easier to clean effectively. This reduces the risk of infections and other health issues that can arise from inadequate hygiene facilities.

The global accessible bathroom solutions market reflects growing recognition of these needs, with the toilet aids for disabled market valued at USD 1.2 billion in 2024 and projected to reach USD 2.5 billion by 2033.

Accessible bathrooms have a profound effect on social inclusion. By making public and private restrooms more inclusive, individuals with disabilities can participate in social activities, engage in the workforce, and lead more fulfilling lives. No longer being limited by bathroom accessibility means becoming active members of communities and society as a whole.

Proper accessible facilities are essential in public spaces, workplaces, and homes to ensure equal access and opportunity.

Boosting Emotional Wellbeing

The emotional impact of accessible bathrooms cannot be underestimated. The relief and confidence that come with being able to use the bathroom independently lead to improved overall emotional wellbeing. Mastering personal tasks without assistance reduces stress and anxiety while building self-esteem.

Families also benefit from peace of mind knowing their loved ones are in a safe, accessible environment.

Modern Design Trends for 2025

Accessible bathroom design in 2025 emphasizes both functionality and style. Current trends include open, spacious layouts that provide luxury while allowing maneuverability, minimalist designs with clean lines and neutral colors, sustainable and eco-friendly materials, customizable features like adjustable showerheads and height-adjustable vanities, and smart technology integration for convenience and independence.

These design approaches prove that accessibility doesn’t mean compromising on aesthetics.

Compliance with Irish Regulations

In Ireland, accessible bathroom installations must comply with specific regulations and standards. Key requirements include minimum floor area of 2,200mm x 1,500mm for wheelchair maneuverability, proper placement and height of fixtures, grab rails near toilets and showers, non-slip flooring throughout, and adequate clearance for mobility aids.

Working with professionals who understand these regulations ensures installations meet all necessary standards while promoting safety and accessibility.

Creating a More Inclusive World

The impact of an accessible bathroom on the day-to-day life of someone with a disability is immeasurable. It transcends mere convenience and restores independence, dignity, safety, and comfort. Accessible bathrooms directly influence physical health, emotional wellbeing, and social inclusion.

By prioritizing accessibility in bathrooms, we create a more inclusive and compassionate world where everyone enjoys the same rights and opportunities. It’s not just about bricks and mortar—it’s about building a more equitable and empathetic society.

Transform Your Bathroom with Irish Stairlifts

If you’re considering making your bathroom more accessible for yourself or a loved one living with a disability, the dedicated team at Irish Stairlifts is here to help. We understand that every individual has unique needs, and we’re committed to providing solutions that restore independence and dignity.

Our experts can guide you through the entire process, from initial consultation to professional installation, ensuring your accessible bathroom meets all safety standards and personal requirements. Don’t let bathroom accessibility challenges limit your independence or quality of life.

Contact Irish Stairlifts today to discuss how we can transform your bathroom into a safe, comfortable, and accessible space:

Call us: +353 (0)1 616 70 79 or +353 (0) 45 892696
Email: showroom@irishstairlifts.ie
Visit: irishstairlifts.ie
Get a free quote: Fill out our online contact form

Let us help you create a bathroom that supports independence, safety, and wellbeing for years to come.

Stairlifts & Home Lifts

How Stairlifts Support Independent Living and Ageing in Place

30Oct2023

As mobility challenges increase with age, simple tasks like climbing stairs can become difficult or dangerous. A stairlift offers a practical solution that enables you to maintain independence, stay in your home longer, and continue living life on your terms without relying on others for basic daily movement.

Understanding Ageing in Place

Ageing in place means remaining in your own home as you grow older rather than moving to a care facility. This approach offers significant advantages: you maintain familiar surroundings that support mental wellbeing, stay connected to your community and neighbors, and preserve the independence that’s crucial to quality of life in your later years.

For those committed to ageing in place, mobility aids like stairlifts provide essential support that makes multi-storey living safe and accessible.

What Stairlifts Offer

A stairlift is a motorized chair or platform that travels along rails mounted to your staircase. The system transports you safely between floors, eliminating the physical strain and fall risk associated with climbing stairs. Modern stairlifts accommodate both straight and curved staircases, with designs that blend seamlessly into your home’s aesthetic.

Key Benefits of Installing a Stairlift

Full Home Access

When stairs become an obstacle, you may find yourself confined to one floor of your home. A stairlift restores complete access to every level, allowing you to use your bedroom upstairs, retrieve items from storage areas, and move freely throughout your entire living space without assistance.

Enhanced Safety

Falls on stairs cause thousands of serious injuries annually, with older adults facing higher risks of fractures and extended recovery times. A stairlift eliminates this danger entirely, giving you confidence to move between floors without fear of losing balance or missing a step.

Mental Health Protection

The frustration of losing independence and needing help with basic tasks takes a psychological toll. Many people report feeling like a burden when they must ask for assistance. A stairlift preserves your autonomy, protecting self-esteem and emotional wellbeing while maintaining dignity in your daily routine.

Community Connections

Staying in your longtime home means remaining close to friends, family, and familiar social networks. These connections combat loneliness and isolation—major concerns for older adults. Rather than relocating to unfamiliar surroundings, you continue participating in your established community.

When researching stairlifts, look for providers offering modern features like battery backup systems, smooth start-and-stop technology, and slim-profile designs. Installation typically takes just a few hours, and quality models require minimal maintenance while providing years of reliable service.

Ready to maintain your independence at home? Contact Irish Stairlifts for expert advice on the perfect stairlift solution for your needs. With over 20 years of experience serving Dublin and surrounding areas, we offer professional installation, high-quality straight and curved stairlift options, and ongoing support. Call 01 616 7079 or 045 892696, email showroom@irishstairlifts.ie, or visit irishstairlifts.ie to schedule your free home assessment today.

Previous page 1 … 3 4 5 6 7 … 36 Next page

Stairlifts Ireland