For people who have difficulty getting up and down the stairs, there are several options to consider if you need help moving between the floors of your home. Between elevators and platform lifts, the stairlift seems to be the most convenient and affordable solution for many people.
If you’ve been searching for a stairlift online, you might have also come across the term ‘chair lift’. But what is the difference between a stairlift and a chair lift, and how will it affect your decision-making? Continue reading to learn more.
What’s the Difference between a Stairlift and a Chair Lift?
A stairlift and a chair lift are the same thing, with a few very minor differences. Both terms are often used interchangeably, but despite being pretty much the same, there are a few minor differences.
| Stairlift | Chair Lift |
|---|---|
| Designed to be installed both indoors and outdoors, addressing accessibility needs within a home | Designed to be installed outdoors, tackling steep terrains or outdoor staircases |
| Installed on different staircase types, customised for curved, straight, or spiral staircases, and offering a tailored solution for indoor mobility challenges | Installed on straight pathways, providing a straightforward solution for outdoor accessibility |
| Often designed to seamlessly blend with home interiors, ensuring they complement the overall aesthetics without compromising functionality | Often visible from the exterior of a home, and may not prioritise aesthetics as much as functionality |
Despite subtle differences, both stairlifts and chair lifts are effective when it comes to using the stairs.
Options to Consider
If you’re unsure which option to go for when it comes to choosing a stairlift or chair lift, allow us to help:
Chair Lifts
- The most recognisable type of stairlift
- Features a seat attached to a motor
- Runs on a track along the staircase
- Made of a motorised chair attached to a rail system
- Allows users to ascend or descend stairs effortlessly
- Commonly seen in homes with outdoor stairs
- Suitable for straight and curved staircases
- Provides a solution for people with difficulties climbing or descending steep pathways or who have difficulty balancing
Perch Stairlifts
- Designed for users with limited movement in the knee or hip joints
- Ideal for those who find sitting down a challenge
- Features a smaller seat and arms for support
- Allows users to ‘perch’ in a comfortable upright position on a small seat
- Alleviates pain in leg joints and muscles
- Offers extra support, the same as standing stairlifts
Sit-or-Stand Stairlifts
- Perfect for homes with multiple users with differing physical abilities
- Suitable for people with fluctuating mobility
- Perfect for users who experience pain or discomfort while sitting
- Features a footrest, grab rail, and foldaway seat
What Lift is Right For You?
When deciding between a stairlift and a chair lift, it’s important to consider your specific needs and the layout of your home. If you rely on a wheelchair, a chair lift might be the most suitable option. However, for other mobility challenges, especially on staircases, a stairlift is the ideal choice.
It’s worth noting that advancements in technology have led to innovations in both chair lifts and stairlifts, enhancing their efficiency, safety features, and user-friendly controls. Manufacturers now offer a range of customisation options, ensuring that the chosen mobility solution aligns seamlessly with the user’s requirements and preferences.
Consulting with mobility solution professionals provides valuable insights and recommendations based on your specific home layout and requirements. They can assess which option is best – a stairlift or a chair lift.
Key Takeaways
- A stairlift and a chair lift are the same, with a few very minor differences
- A chair lift is typically for outdoor use, whereas a stairlift is for indoor and outdoor use
- Choosing between a stairlift and a chair lift depends on your needs and home layout
Find Your Dream Mobility Solution Today!
Whether you require an indoor or outdoor stairlift (or chair lift), we can help. At Halton Stairlifts, we can guide you in making an informed decision that prioritises functionality and aesthetics.
We have a range of mobility options available for your indoor and outdoor staircases. If you’re unsure which design is right for you, allow our DBS-checked engineers to assist you.
Please contact us with any questions you may have. Our team will be happy to give you advice and arrange a FREE home assessment with a no-obligation quote.
Neil is the founder of Halton Stairlifts. He has years of experience installing stairlifts across the UK. With an eagerness to help those with mobility issues get up the stairs, Neil understands how important it is for a seamless and straightforward approach to installing stairlifts to help those in need quickly.