There are many different names for mobility devices that help you move safely around your home, and it’s easy to mix them up.
You’ve likely heard the term “stair chair lift” before, but it can be tricky to know if it refers to a stair lift or a lift chair.
What’s the Difference Between a Stair Lift and a Chair Lift?
A stair lift is a device with a motorized seat that a person sits on, and the seat moves up and down the stairs. It’s designed for anyone with mobility issues using collapsible assistive devices such as walkers or canes.
Stair lifts (as pictured above) have other names, including “stair chair lift” and “chair lift for stairs.” The names sound similar to “chair lifts,” but they’re different mobility aids. Stair lifts are the most popular mobility device in private residences.
Lift chairs (pictured above), also known as chair lifts, typically look like regular chairs or recliners. However, they have a motorized section under the seat that lifts and tilts forward so a person can easily stand. Thus, lift chairs are an excellent tool for men and women who struggle to stand up on their own.
What’s Right for You: A Stair Lift or Lift Chair?
A lift chair is right for you if…
- you’re dealing with severe mobility issues, and you cannot get in and out of a seat safely.
- your lower body “goes to sleep” while you’re sitting in a chair, and you struggle to get out.
A stair lift is right for you if…
- you’d like assistance going up and down the stairs.
- you can safely get in and out of a seat.
Stair Lift Benefits
Stair lifts offer many benefits. Experts on aging agree that they’re one of the best mobility tools for those dealing with difficulty going up and down stairs on their own.
Benefits of stair lifts:
- Increased independence: Move safely around your home without asking for assistance going up or down the stairs.
- Less worry for you and your loved ones: Give yourself and your family peace of mind with a stair lift. They won’t have to worry about you navigating the stairs on your own on any given day, and you can have the peace of mind that you can move between the different floors of your house without risking injury.
- Easy to use: Stair lifts aren’t complicated mobility devices. A control button makes it easy to go up and down the stairs safely.
- Stay in your home: After you install a stair lift, you don’t need to make major home modifications or move to an assisted living community. You can age in place and stay in your home.
- Quick installation: Installation typically takes one day. Companies like Independent Home Solutions (IHS) offer one-day installation after an initial assessment.
- Free quote: Unlike some home modifications, you can generally get a free quote before agreeing to purchase equipment. If you’re interested in stair lift installation in your Central Pennsylvania home, you can get a free estimate from IHS.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do stair lifts cost?
Stair lifts typically cost between $3,400 and $10,000. The price depends on many factors and can go as low as $2,500 and up to $30,000 for specialized equipment. Get a free estimate to see how much a stair lift would cost in your Pennsylvania home.
