Are Stairlifts Safe for Your Home?
A stairlift can be a life-changing piece of equipment for older adults and others with mobility challenges who want to stay in their own home, but are stairlifts safe? The good news is that, yes, stairlifts (also called stair chair lifts or stair lifts) are safe provided that:
The stairlift model was made in accordance with safety standards and comes from a reputable brand.
The stairlift is appropriate for the staircase.
The stairlift has all of the recommended safety features.
The weight capacity of the stairlift is suitable for the user.
The stairlift is installed correctly.
The stairlift is used correctly.
The stairlift is cared for adequately with routine maintenance.
Reputable Brand
The top priority of anyone thinking about purchasing a stairlift for someone with mobility issues should be to help the person navigate the home environment safely and independently and prevent falls. That's why it's important to buy a stairlift—or rent a stairlift—from a reputable manufacturer.
Before purchasing a stairlift, check that it has been made in accordance with the safety standards set forth by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and all applicable state and federal laws. In Denver, Colorado, for example, the Building Codes and Standards do not provide oversight for the installation of a stairlift, so the applicable standards would be those provided by ASME.
Appropriate for the Staircase
Because you’re dealing with a mechanical device that goes up and down a track attached to the stair treads (not the wall), it's vital to choose the right lift for the kind of staircase in your home. Today, there are multiple options available:
Straight stairlift. A straight stairlift goes up one floor and is the easiest kind of stairlift to purchase and install.
Curved stairlift. To accommodate curved stairs, a custom-built curved stairlift can be built to follow the precise angle of the curve.
If you want to install a stairlift in a split-level home, multiple stairlifts or alternative solutions (such as wheelchair lifts or vertical platform lifts) may be more appropriate.
Weight Capacity
In addition to getting the right lift for the right stairs, it's also imperative to choose the right lift for the user to ensure your stairlifts are safe. Different stairlifts are available with different weight and height limits, and following these guidelines is essential for ensuring safety.
The weight limit on a standard stairlift is 250 lbs, although more basic and heavy-duty models may also be available. In addition to how much weight the stairlift can hold, it's also important to think about height. A tall user may be under the weight limit but have to scrunch on a smaller machine, potentially leading to back pain.
Safety Features
Stairlifts come with several safety features to prevent the lift from hitting an object on the stairs and prevent the user from falling out. Look for these key safety features when selecting a stairlift:
Safety belts. Seat belts come with every stairlift to prevent falls and should be fastened before use.
Armrests. Armrests set at the right height keep the user safe and comfortable and keep fingers, sleeves, and accessories from getting caught in the gears. One of the armrests should also include a button that allows the user to stop the stairlift at any time.
Folding seat. The ability to fold the seat out of the way when the chair is not being used helps to prevent others from walking into the seat or having to maneuver around it.
Movable footrests. As with a power wheelchair, being able to move the footrests out of the way enables the user to get up comfortably and safely.
Extended rail. This is an extra piece of track that gives the user access to the chair lift without any risk of falling down the stairs.
Obstruction sensors. Obstruction sensors or safety sensors bring the stairlift to a halt if there are children, pets, or objects on the stairs.
Remote control. A remote control is important in case two people are using the stairlift and one needs to send the stairlift back up to the top for the other user to come down.
Battery backup. In case of a power outage, it's best to choose a stairlift that uses a battery connected to a power outlet that is constantly charging. The stairlifts at Mobility Plus in Denver, for example, store enough charge to go up and down the stairs around 40 times after the power goes out.
Could a Stairlift Come Off the Track?
When operating a stairlift from a reputable brand, the chair itself should never fall off or slide uncontrollably down the track because it's held in place by a series of gears. If a power outage or flat battery were to occur, the worst that could happen is that the stairlift would stop before it reached the top or bottom of the stairs. Understanding how stairlifts work can allay concerns about stairlifts slipping.
Professional Installation Process
Once you choose a stairlift, it's important to have it professionally installed. In most cases, having a stairlift installed properly only takes three hours and your stairlift will be ready to use.
In an attempt to save money, some families purchase a stairlift online and install it themselves. However, the AEMA advises against self-installation because a stairlift that isn't installed properly can be extremely dangerous.
If you are working on a limited budget, purchasing a used stairlift rather than a new stairlift can be a cost-effective solution. You may also be able to secure financial assistance from your insurance company or a local disability grant.
Safe Use
Once the stairlift is installed, be sure to use it according to the guidelines and follow sensible safety precautions:
Do not exceed the maximum weight limit.
Do not put more than one person (including children) on the chair.
Keep loose items clear of the stairlift.
Be sure to fasten the seat belt every time.
In the event that the user can't safely use the stairlift alone due to reduced balance or compromised eyesight, having someone there to assist the user will also be a top concern.
Routine Maintenance
Last but certainly not least, an annual stairlift service is essential for keeping your stairlift in good repair. At this visit, a technician will check the battery, oil the tracks (if needed), and perform any other necessary repairs. Many mobility retail stores offer maintenance plans so that your stairlift is always in good working order.
Stairlift Safety Depends on You
Are stairlifts safe? Absolutely. If you buy a safe stairlift, have it properly installed, use it correctly, and have it serviced annually, your stairlift will provide a safe, dependable way for someone with mobility challenges to move up and down the stairs.
Contacting a mobility store is the best way to learn additional safety tips and product recommendations and to find the best mobility solutions for your home.