The caterpillars climb stairs are one of the solutions for accessibility best sellers. Unlike a chair saves stairs or an elevator, a caterpillar has the advantage of being portable. In this way, we can make use of it, without altering the appearance of the staircase or making possible works.
On the other hand, caterpillars climb stairs ( MONTASCALE PER DISABILI ) allow us to overcome architectural barriers in a much more immediate, easy and simple than other solutions. But, is that true?
Caterpillar climbs stairs: the portable version of the stair-lift
One of the main points in favor of the caterpillars is the ease with which they can be transported from one space to another. While a stair lift is a fixed solution, tailored to a particular staircase, a stair climbing caterpillar can be used on different stairs, several times a day. Moreover, models such as ERUCA are removable, being able to fit comfortably in the trunk of a car. Thus, we not only gain accessibility in our home, but in any space that we propose.
But not everything is advantages. The caterpillars climb stairs present a series of conditions that, if you are thinking of buying one, it is good that you know them.
At first, to be able to climb or descend a ladder with a caterpillar, we will always need someone to help us and drive the machine. The task, which is not easy and requires strength and experience, involves a loss of autonomy for the user of a wheelchair. For this reason, the caterpillars are recommended as an alternative solution to a stair lift or lift, recommended only for short journeys and specific uses.
At the technical level, the caterpillars climb stairs are not suitable for all types of stairs. When loading with the user sitting in the wheelchair, they need a lot of space to maneuver. Therefore, they can only be used on straight stairs or with spacious landings. It should also be remembered that the caterpillar exerts its strength on the corner of each step. Therefore, we must ensure that the ladder can support the weight and strength of the machine, not being recommended for wooden stairs or very damaged.
Tips for use:
To use the caterpillar climbs stairs, we must keep in mind that the driver controls the machine and the user. Therefore, we must be careful in every movement, always taking the controls of the machine and ensuring a safe and constant progress. We will thus avoid hasty reactions or sudden movements.
On the other hand, when we have the caterpillar with the user we want to transport, we must pay special attention to the start and end of the march. It is very important to make sure that the machine faces well, advancing progressively without deviating to one side or another of the ladder.
For its part, the user of the chair must stay still and relaxed throughout the journey, offering maximum stability to the caterpillar and the driver. It is advisable to keep the arms inside the chair since extending them or shaking them can cause a dangerous imbalance.
Caterpillar climbs stairs or chair saves stairs?
As we have just seen, using a caterpillar climbs stairs requires experience, strength and touch at the same time. First of all, we have a person in our hands, so keeping calm and making the journey with maximum concentration is a priority. This involves time, especially to assemble and disassemble the machine, as well as to secure the saddle to the caterpillar.
All this makes the caterpillars climb stairs are an option only recommended for very specific uses, for straight stairs with few steps and where a strong adult can help us up or down. Thus, a chair or platform saves stairs is in most of the times a much more stable and safe option. Although they suppose a fixed solution, the design of the models of chair and current platforms can be customized, integrating in the surroundings. In addition, it means gaining personal autonomy since the user can use them without the support of anyone.
In Valida without barriers we have a wide catalog of accessibility solutions. Whether you are looking for a chair that saves stairs or a caterpillar, platform or lift, we offer advice and price without commitment. In addition, you can come and try these solutions in one of our offices spread throughout the territory.