Guide to Different Types of Stair Lifts

By: Phill Monroe

The invention of the stair lift was sometime in the 1930s. The innovation helped a lot to facilitate the movement of disabled persons up and down the stairs. These movable stair lifts are attached to special railings that are screwed on a baseboard running the length of the stairs.

The stair lifts of today have come a long way. There are different types and styles for every need. A new feature of stair lifts is the ability to stop automatically when there is obstruction along the rail.

DC or Battery? There are different categories of stair lifts. Power-wise, there is the direct current and alternating current powered type and then there is the battery operated unit. The battery powered unit is suitable when there is power failure. However, the task of having the battery charged and re-charged might prove to be too much for the user.

Straight or Curved? Then there are the different types of stair lifts according to the run of the staircase. There is the straight stair lift and the curved star lift. A straight stair lift fits a straight track designed for staircases that run on a straight course. A curved stair lift runs on a curved track on a curving staircase. This type of stair lift is slightly more expensive because the “curve” of the track or railing has to be measured and customised.

Seated Stair lift. In terms of the position of the user when being transported by a stair lift, there is the seated stair lift, standing stair lift and the perching stair lift. The seated stair life is probably the most popular choice. This type is best suited for people who can walk but has difficulty climbing up stairs. People on crutches will benefit most from a seated stair lift. The lift’s chair swivels and has adjustable armrests for ease in sitting.

Wheelchair Stair lift. For those who are in wheelchairs, there are stair lifts that can be customised for one. A wheelchair stair lift can definitely boosts a handicapped person’s morale as he is able to move on his own with more ease. A wider staircase is needed to facilitate this type of stair lift.

Standing Stair lift. For those who can stand and walk but cannot bend their knees or legs, the standing stair lift is best for them. A person may be able to walk with the aid of a walker or a walking stick but might find it hard to climb up a flight of stairs. In such cases, a standing stair lift is the best option. A key consideration is safety on the user. However guardrails are included in the set up.

Perching Stair lift. A variation of the standing stair lift is the perching stair lift where the user is provided a small seat for support. This is ideal for those who could do with a little support but do not exactly need to be seated. This type is best considered when the staircase is too narrow for a seated stair lift. Then there is the outdoor stair lift which is suitable for homes with no interior accommodation for a stair lift. However, this set up is problematic when there is rain and snow.