Ultimate Guide To Buying a Stairlift

An AARP study found that nearly 90% of seniors want to stay in their own homes as they get older, rather than move to an assisted living facility or nursing home. This is known as aging in place. Of course, it’s not as simple as it sounds. With physical health inevitably declining as we age, the barriers to independent living broaden.

Thankfully, there are solutions that can help you or your loved one stay at home and remain independent for longer. Stairs are one of the most treacherous and difficult-to-navigate areas of the home, so a stairlift can be an excellent addition for many people with limited mobility.

In this post, we will guide you through the process of buying a stairlift. We’ll cover how to decide whether a stairlift is right for you, including answering many of the pressing questions you might have. We’ll also explain the factors you should consider when purchasing a stairlift and offer some tips for using your stairlift safely.

Is a Stairlift Right For You?

Before you start shopping around for a stairlift, you’ll want to be sure that this is indeed a good option for you. Aside from meeting your mobility needs, you need to be aware of the costs involved and the impact it will have on your living space. Here are some of the main questions you should consider: 

• What are my current and future mobility needs?
• What types of stairlifts are available?
• Is my house suitable for a stairlift?
• What are the costs involved in buying a stairlift?
• Is there payment assistance available for stairlift purchases?
• Are stairlifts covered by Medicare?
• What’s involved in a stairlift purchase?
• How is a stairlift installed?

Let’s take a look at answering each of these questions in turn.

What Are My Current and Future Mobility Needs?

Unfortunately, an alarming one in four US adults, aged 65 and over, suffers a fall each year.

What’s more, falls are the leading cause of fatal injuries in older Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

If your physical health is declining, this will likely put you at a higher risk of falls, even around the home. Falling downstairs, in particular, can pose a big risk to anyone with mobility issues. 

Aside from the risk of a fall, there may also be the issue that you simply can’t navigate the stairs. Some people are able to walk on flat surfaces with little assistance while using stairs poses a big problem.

Similarly, some mobility solutions, such as canes and walkers are ideal for use on flat surfaces but are less suitable for use on stairs. 

If you’ve decided to age in place, then you’ll also need to consider your future mobility needs.

While nobody has a crystal ball, doctors can often tell you how mobility issues will progress over time. As such, you should try to prepare for what the future may hold. 

Depending on your individual situation, you may need to make one or more modifications to your house to help you stay in your own home and maintain your independence. There is a wide range of home mobility solutions available, a stairlift being one part of the puzzle to give you the peace of mind to continue to enjoy independent living.

What Types of Stairlifts are Available?

Straight Stairlifts

Designed to be installed along straight staircases on a straight rail, these are more common than other types of stairlifts. They are also simpler and more affordable than other types, because of their straight design. Straight stairlifts feature retractable rails and seats, armrests, and footrests. Many models feature a power swivel to make it easier to get on and off of the stairlift.

Curved Stairlifts

Staircases come in many shapes and sizes, and sometimes a straight stairlift isn’t appropriate. If you have a curved staircase, a curved stairlift can provide you with the accessibility you need to navigate the stairs in your home. Since curved stairlifts have rail systems that are designed to fit along the curves of your staircase, they are great options for homes with landings between floors or those with winding or spiral staircases.

Curved stairlifts also feature retractable rails and seats, armrests, and footrests, just like their straight counterparts. Curved stairlifts have the ability to stop on landings and may also come equipped with power swivel options. Because curved stairlifts often require more complex custom-designed systems, they can be more expensive than straight stairlifts.

Outdoor Stairlifts

Indoor stairlifts are not equipped to stand up to the heat, cold, and precipitation brought on by weather conditions, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a stairlift outdoors. Outdoor stairlifts are specially designed to withstand the elements and are great options to improve the outdoor accessibility of your home.

Outdoor stairlifts can be either straight or curved and are typically used to access porches, decks, driveways, or yards. Much like indoor stairlifts, outdoor stairlifts feature foldable seats, footrests, and armrests, as well as power swivel options or the ability to stop on landings. They also come with additional features, such as lock-and-key systems and protective covers, to ensure safety, improve durability, and prevent unnecessary direct exposure to the elements.

Is My House Suitable for a Stairlift?

Since a stairlift runs on a track fitted to your staircase, the seat can be parked at the top or bottom of the stairs and controls can typically be used to “call” or “send” it either way.

One major concern that buyers may have is that they have a set of stairs that is curved or has a landing. Not to worry; since there are curved lifts available, curved staircases shouldn’t present an issue.

Another concern is space. As mentioned, the chair can be parked at the top or bottom of the stairs, but it can also be parked around a corner if that works better within the space. Most stairlifts fold away compactly when not in use, so it should be no issue for others to get around it; however, the staircase does need to be wide enough to house the chair and someone sitting on it (at least 30 inches). Unless you have extremely narrow stairs, this shouldn’t be an issue. 

What about a staircase that doesn’t have a wall? Not to worry; the stairlift rail is attached to the treads of the stairs, so can be installed on open staircases or on stairs that have a railing on both sides.

What Are the Costs Involved In Buying a Stairlift?

Of course, the cost is always going to be front-of-mind with a major purchase like a stairlift. Prices will vary depending on your chosen manufacturer and your individual needs, but below is a rough guide of what you might expect to pay. 

• Basic models of straight stairlifts, including installation, typically cost between $2,500 and $5,000. The length of the rail and additional features will be the main factors in the price differentials.
• Curved stairlifts will likely cost between $8,000 and $13,000. In this case, aside from the length of the rail and additional features, the number of curves and the level of customization will also be factors that affect the price.

You might be wondering why curved lifts are so much more expensive than straight ones. Well, there are several reasons for this. For one, they work differently, including requiring two motors instead of one. The second one is used to adjust the level of the stairlift chair. This also requires sensors to detect when the slope changes. Plus, these lifts have to be customized, with gear racks and rail sections being made to exactly fit the curves and slopes of each staircase.

In-home assessments are typically free, and financing options for the purchase price are often available. Quoted prices will usually include installation and a warranty, although the exact terms will vary according to each manufacturer. You may be able to waive the sales tax if you have a prescription from a medical professional stating that the stairlift is a necessity.

Is There Payment Assistance Available for Stairlift Purchases?

There may be resources available in your community to help cover the cost of your stairlift. These options are discussed below.

Veterans’ Assistance

The Veterans Administration provides coverage for stairlifts for wheelchair-bound veterans who can’t use their stairs due to disabilities that are related to their military service. They may also provide funds to help cover the cost in certain situations through the VA Aid and Attendance benefit, but to qualify for assistance, you must be eligible for a pension.

The Veterans Directed Home and Community Based Services (VD-HCBS) may provide financial assistance to pay for items that enable veterans to live independently, but this program is not available everywhere. It is available at 50 VA medical centers in 28 states.

Medicaid’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)

The HCBS program may cover the cost of a stairlift for those who apply and are approved to receive an HCBS waiver. It’s important to note that many states have lengthy waiting lists and enrollment may be limited for these waiver programs.

State Assistance Programs

Many states have assistance programs that offer grants and loans that may help cover the cost of a stairlift. Each state’s program has different requirements, so you should check with your county’s Area Agency on Aging for more information.                                

Are stairlifts covered by Medicare?

While some private medical insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost of a stairlift, original Medicare and Medicare supplemental insurance policies do not cover this expense, with one rare exception. Medicare may pay for a small portion of the cost of your stairlift if it includes an elevating seat component that is designed to help you sit down and stand up safely when using the device. This part of the stairlift would need to be deemed medically necessary in order for Medicaid to cover a portion of the cost. You would then be responsible for the remainder of the cost.

As of 2019, some Medicare Advantage plans may help cover the cost of your stairlift. These Medicare Advantage plans may provide supplemental healthcare benefits for items that are deemed medically necessary by a licensed healthcare professional.

Medicare Part B doesn’t cover items that require permanent home modifications, such as the construction and installation of a stairlift.

What’s Involved In a Stairlift Purchase?

A stairlift is definitely not your average everyday purchase and is something you’re likely only going to buy once. As such, unless you know someone who has recently had a stairlift installed, you may not be familiar with the process. So how does it all happen?

First, let’s start with the main purchasing steps: 

1. Assessment: You can request an online quote by filling out a form, or you can call to set up a free in-home assessment. Our team will help you to decide on a practical solution that fits within your budget.
2. Design: The design component can be a fun part of the process. We use an advanced augmented reality app, so you can see how your stairlift will look in your home.
3. Installation: After the design is approved, we will arrange a time for our technicians to install your stairlift. 

It really is as simple as 1-2-3, and you’re ready to lead a more independent lifestyle.

How Is a Stairlift Installed?

Some buyers worry that the lift will be installed on the wall of their stairs and that their wall may not be able to support it. However, the rails are actually attached to the treads of the stairs by legs that are spaced about a meter apart. The legs are attached to the stairs using screws.

That means that a stairlift doesn’t need to be installed alongside a wall and could be installed along a railing or even in cases where there is no railing. The placing of the stairlift will be determined during your consultation, and one side may be preferable over the other. 

For example, if you want to park the lift around a corner, then the desired “parking spot” will determine which side the lift goes on. Other considerations for placement will include the location of doorways and walkways, and any obstructions that may make it difficult for the user to get onto and off of the seat. 

Many people worry about the potential decline in the value of their home after a stairlift has been installed. Removing a stairlift will leave holes in the stairs from the screws or damage the carpet if there is one. So you may want to consider the cost of fixing this before putting your home up for sale. However, with an aging population, leaving the stairlift in place could actually increase the number of buyers interested in a home. 

Some buyers may wonder if self-installation is an option. However, this is not recommended. Our professional installers are factory-trained to ensure your safety. Plus, you won’t have to deal with future expenses resulting from incorrect installation.

How to Buy a Stairlift

Once you’ve decided that buying a stairlift is the right option for you, it’s time to start shopping. We’ve already mentioned some of the options you have, so as you can see, there are quite a few decisions to make. 

We’ve put together a step-by-step guide to ensure choosing the right stairlift is smooth-sailing. We’ll outline the steps before delving into each in more detail. 

How to choose a stairlift in five simple steps: 

1. Make sure the space is suitable to house a stairlift.
2. Decide on a reputable stairlift company and arrange a consultation.
3. Figure out what type of stairlift you’ll need.
4. Decide on the features you want.
5. Choose a stairlift that will fit.
6. Before finalizing the purchase, double-check the warranty and service policy. 

Now, let’s look at each of these steps in detail.

Step 1: Make Sure the Space Is Suitable for a Stairlift

Most staircases will, in fact, be suitable for a stairlift installation. We discussed earlier some of the concerns that you may have, and we’ll recap them here: 

• The wall isn’t strong enough to hold a stairlift: This is a non-issue as the stairlift rail will be fitted to the tread of the stairs.
• My staircase doesn’t have any walls: Since the stairlift is fitted to the stairs, no walls are needed. Lifts can be fitted alongside railings or even on completely open staircases.
• My stairs are curved or have a landing: This is where curved stairlifts come in. They can be customized to suit virtually any type of staircase.
• There won’t be enough room for others to get around a stairlift: There are compact stairlifts available, such as the 950 Stairlift. Plus, most lifts come with space-saving features, so they don’t take up a lot of space when not in use. The seat itself will fold up, and some will have the option of a folding rail. 

While many concerns can be overcome, there are some cases in which a stairlift won’t work. For example, if the stairs are too narrow for someone to fit comfortably on a lift, or if there is not enough space for the user to get on and off the chair due to a doorway or other obstruction, then a stairlift is not an option.

In that case, you may have to look at other solutions, such as the installation of a home elevator.

Step 2: Decide on a Reputable Stairlift Company and Arrange a Consultation

During your research of stairlifts, you’ve probably run across a plethora of companies. However, they’re not all cut from the same cloth. Differentiating factors include the quality of stairlifts they supply, the level of customer service they provide, and the warranty and service policies they offer. 

Checking out some of the most common stairlift manufacturers, such as Bruno, Harmar, Ameriglide, Handicare, and Stannah, is a great place to start since these companies produce some of the best stairlifts available.

Of course, the type of stairlift you want to purchase will depend on your individual needs and budget. But when it comes to customer service, everyone wants and deserves the best. 

One of the best ways to judge a provider is to check out testimonials and reviews from past customers. These can be found on the manufacturers’ websites or on independent sites like Modernize, ConsumerAffairs and HomeAdvisor.

Step 3: Figure Out What Type of Stairlift You’ll Need

In most cases, deciding between a straight or curved stairlift is fairly straightforward. A straight stairlift is typically used for a single set of straight stairs. 

In most other cases, for example, a staircase that is curved or has a landing, you’ll need a curved lift; however, there are some exceptions in both cases. 

For two (or more) straight sets of stairs with a landing in between, you could go for multiple straight lifts. However, this would mean having two separate units so this isn’t ideal in terms of safety, practicality, or price. 

In contrast, you may have a completely straight set of stairs but would like to park the unit around a corner at the top or bottom of the stairs. In this case, the rail will have to bend, so you’ll need a curved lift. 

Let’s not forget about outdoor stairlifts. Not all stairlifts are exclusively for indoor use, and some, such as the 1000XXL Stairlift, are rugged enough to be installed on an outside set of steps.

Step 4: Decide on the Features You Want

Some lifts come with certain functionalities, ergonomic features, and optional add-ons that others don’t.

Here are some features you might run across:

• Multiple charging points: Charging points are where your stairlift battery is charged, usually at the top and bottom of the stairs, so the lift can be charged while parked.
• Continuous charging function: Some rails are fitted with a continuous charging system so that the lift will be charged no matter where it is parked along the rail.
• Fold-up seats, footrests, and armrests: These help to ensure the seat doesn’t create an obstacle or hazard when not in use.
• Safety sensors: Sensors detect obstacles in the lift’s path and signal the stairlift to stop.
• Retractable seat belt: All lifts come with a seat belt as a standard feature. A retractable seat belt is easy-to-use and is more aesthetically pleasing than a loose one.
• Harness: A harness will give additional support in cases where a seat belt doesn’t offer enough.
• Flip-up rail: Stairlift rails have to extend beyond the last step of your staircase to ensure the chair will transport the user safely to the top or bottom of the stairs. The last section of rail can be a folding rail so that it can be stowed out of the way and not become a potential safety hazard.
• Remote controls: These enable you to “call” and “send” the lift where needed.
• Key switch: A key switch will help you prevent unauthorized use of the lift (such as by young children).
• Manual emergency stop: This is a button that can be pushed if you need to stop the lift for some reason.
• Battery backup: A battery backup will ensure your stairlift still works if there’s a power outage.
• Swivel seat: This will make transfer onto and off of the lift easier and safer.
• Adjustable seat height: Having an adjustable seat height is ideal if you have multiple users. 

You’ll notice that most features involve making the stairlift more practical and safe for users and others who will be in the home. There are aesthetic options too, such as the availability of different types of upholstery to suit the style of your home.

Step 5: Choose a Stairlift That Will Fit

When it comes to finding a stairlift that’s right for your body, of course, there’s no one size that fits all. Every lift will have specifications including weight capacity and seat width. Not paying attention to these could lead you to select a unit that is uncomfortable and unsafe. 

Some tips for getting the right fit: 

• If you don’t know your current weight, weigh yourself, or have your doctor help you.
• Measure the space needed to sit comfortably by sitting on a chair and measuring your seated lap width. Consider choosing a model with a wide seat if it’s more comfortable.
• Try out stairlifts at a showroom.
• Find a model with adjustable armrests if you think it would help. 

Bear in mind; you want the stairlift to fit you for a long time, so consider the possibility of weight gain and other changes down the road.

Step 6: Double Check the Warranty and Service Policy

With all of the excitement of designing your stairlift and choosing additional features, it’s easy to lose sight of what an important purchase this is. Stairlifts are meant to be a one-time deal, so warranty and service policies should be important factors to consider when choosing your new lift. 

Before you complete the purchase, you should double-check that nothing has changed from the initial consultation. Some providers will offer a different warranty depending on the type of lift purchased. For example, if you’ve changed your mind and gone with a curved instead of a straight lift, you could find yourself with a shorter warranty period. 

Most warranties extend to one or two years, and this may include annual maintenance services, including covering the cost of any required repairs. After the warranty period, it will be up to you to pay for service, repairs, or replacements. Some companies offer an extended warranty for an additional fee.

How to Use a Stairlift Safely

Once you’ve purchased your lift and gone through the installation process, it’s time to put it to good use and enjoy your new-found independence. However, before you do, it’s worth bearing in mind some key safety tips to ensure a safe trip up and down the stairs. 

When your stairlift is installed, your technician will go over its safe use with you, but it’s worth having a good handle on things beforehand. 

Here are our top tips for using your stairlift safely: 

• Wear your seatbelt. Granted, you’re not reaching great speeds on a stairlift, but wearing a seatbelt or harness is still very important. Just a slight loss of balance could result in a dangerous fall.
• Take care when getting onto and off of the lift. This may seem obvious, but just like with many everyday activities, it’s easy to get into bad habits. Getting off of a lift, especially at the top of the stairs can be quite dangerous, especially for someone with compromised balance. Consider taking advantage of features, such as an extended rail or a swivel seat to mitigate these risks.
• Don’t overload the unit. It might be tempting to try to carry objects (or people) with you on the stairlift. However, this could create a safety hazard, and you could overload the unit by putting too much weight on it.
• Ensure kids can’t operate the lift. If you often have young children in your home, it’s a good idea to get a key that can disable the operation of the lift when not in use.
• Fold up your chair when not in use. Most chairs come with fold-up seats, armrests, and footrests. These features reduce the risk of tripping and make it easier to get around. This is especially important if there are small kids, people with mobility issues, or anyone with a sight impairment in your home.

A lot of this comes down to common sense, but it’s worth being aware of the dangers and letting others know too.

Wrapping Up

Buying a stairlift can be both overwhelming and exciting, and there are so many options available. In this guide, we’ve provided you with answers to many of the questions that you may have. All that’s left is for you to set up a consultation and choose the stairlift that’s perfect for you.

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