8 Things to Consider When Choosing a Stair Lift

A stair lift is a cost-effective solution that one should consider for a family member or patient that has difficulty navigating stairs. Getting up and down the stairs can become very difficult for seniors, and one missed step can lead to a serious injury. To help make the buying process easier, here are eight things to consider when purchasing a stair lift:

  1. User’s Mobility

The most important thing that should be considered when choosing a stair lift is the user’s mobility. This will determine whether or not a stair lift is the safest mobility solution. When reaching out to a local dealer, be sure to help them understand the needs of the user so that they can recommend the best possible solution.

  1. Type of Staircase

The design of the staircase determines the type of stair lift that will need to be installed:

  • Straight Staircase– Straight stairs are stairs that have no curves, turns, or immediate landings. If the staircase is straight, then a standardized straight rail stair lift should be perfect. These types of models have standardized rails and have a much quicker completion time.
  • Curved Staircases/Staircases with Landings – Staircases that have curves, turns, or immediate landings require a curved rail stair lift. These types of models have a curved rail, which must be custom built to fit the home. The time of completion is often much longer and the price much higher for curved staircases.

If the staircase has an immediate landing, two straight lifts can be considered. However, a curved model is often the better solution because it will not require the user to get off one lift and on the other at the immediate landing. Again, this all depends on the user’s mobility, which is why it is the number one thing to consider.

  1. Budget

Before taking a deep dive into stair lift research, it is important to have an idea of how much you are willing to spend. The price of a new straight rail stair lift starts at $2,950, whereas a new curved stair lift starts at $9,500. Straight rail models are definitely much more affordable than curved rail models, but when all else is considered, either model is much more affordable than moving into a single-level home or a senior living community.

  1. Size of Seat/ Weight Capacity

Most standard models have a 300 lb. weight capacity and standard sized seat. However, if necessary, there are models available that have a higher weight capacity and optional seat upgrade. The heavy-duty models may require more space to be installed, so keep that in mind if a heavy-duty model or larger seat is needed.

  1. Options

There are a number of options that can be added for safety, convenience, or comfort. There are many customization options available, which may make it difficult to determine what options, if any, should be added to a lift. However, a stair lift expert from a local dealer will know what options to recommend based on a user’s needs and situation. They will recommend any options that they feel are necessary to keep the user safe, as well as those that will increase comfort and convenience for the user of the lift.

  1. Consider a Used Model

Most dealers offer used models that are still in great condition and less than two years old. So if you are looking to save some money and do not mind a lift that has been previously used, ask a local dealer if they offer used stair lift models.

  1. Installation/Service

When considering a local stair lift dealer, be sure to check and see if they have trained technicians that install and service the lift. Having someone to call if the lift stops working or runs out of battery is very important. Not all online dealers offer service, so it is important to make sure that they do before deciding to purchase the stair lift.

  1. Showroom

Do some research! Check to see if there are any nearby stair lift showrooms. A visit to a showroom will allow a future stair lift user to learn how to operate a lift and feel how it rides. Lifeway Mobility, for example, has several stair lift showrooms throughout the country: Chicago, Connecticut, Los Angeles, Massachusetts, & Minneapolis, Pittsburgh, and San Francisco Bay.

If you have any questions or would like to learn even more about stair lifts, check out Caring Village's Top 10 Stair Lift Companies and their current recommendations for stair lifts here!

A stair lift may be a big investment, but it is an investment that is worth it when you consider the safety and independence it provides.

When purchasing a stair lift, make sure you do your research and discuss your options with a physician. Bruno provides stairlift buyer assistance for families who might not be sure of the best lift for their home. You can answer a few questions about your home or office and the Bruno team will connect you with local professionals to help you with your installation. To learn more and request a free quote, simply fill out the quick contact form below: