We’ve compiled here the 5 best stairlift reviews of 2023 including information on price, specs, & how to choose the perfect stairlift for seniors
- Our Top Pick: Ameriglide Stairlift
- Best Outdoor Stairlift: Harmar
- Best For Larger People:- Universal Stair Lift
- Best Quality Stair Lift:-Nautilus
- Best Bariatric Stairlifts:- Harmar with Flip-Up Arms
Research[1] states that around 60% of seniors age 80 or more and, 47% of age 65-79 had lived in the same place for more than 20 years.
Many of them who have mobility issues at home can install a stairlift to keep their freedom.
Using our stairlift reviews and some installing guide, anybody can easily outfit stairlift in their home.
Stairlifts help in preserving independence for those who are aging in one place. Any best-rated stairlifts can be very beneficial for your loved ones who have joint pains, disability, or reduced immobility.
However, finding the best stairlifts for seniors can be a challenge with a wide range of designs, features, safety, and power requirements. But no matter what, it is an outstanding retirement investment.
Top Stairlift Companies of 2023
Considering the cost, types, customer support, and ranking we have lined up 5 best stairlifts 2023 to guide you through
Stairlift Reviews
Our Top Pick : Ameriglide Stairlift
Ameriglide Horizon Plus Stairlift combines many different features into a complex design that is suitable for any type of staircase. You can easily enjoy a comfortable ride with a lever-operated seat.
The footrest of the stairlift can be easily folded in and out of the way. Ameriglide can be installed on the steepest staircase with an angle of up to 55 degrees. It also had special features like a digitally diagnosed display, comfortable seat, and lap belt.
With these details, Ameriglide Horizon Straight stairlift for the elderly is one of the most powerful and accessible stairlift models on the market.
The standard size of the track is 14.75 feet.
Additional rail is to be purchased if more than 14.75 is needed.
Ameriglide Horizon Straight Stairlift can be custom cut according to your staircase.
It can be easily plugged into your side wall outlet and can hold up to 308 lbs of weight.
This stairlift company offers you a few color options to match your home decor.
It also consists of ERGO seats that give ultimate comfort and can be rotated to allow for safe dismounting.
What We Like
- Self Installable
- Can be used in compact spaces
- Affordable for a long run
What We Don't Like
- Some model require customizations
Best Outdoor Stairlift: Harmar
Harmar Outdoor Stairlift is managed with a long-lasting aluminum trail and marine vinyl seating to handle the rainy conditions, wind, snow, and temperature below 0 degrees to 125 degrees.
It is highly weatherproof to resist the elements. It can be custom fitted according to your staircase for seniors. It is mounted on to the stairs on any of the sides of a staircase.
It is easily operated on the normal household current of 115VAC. It has the function of rocker control that gives out continuous pressure which lets the lift stop immediately as soon as the control is released.
Projected Aluminum tracks are available and are custom made to any lengths with foldable seats and footrest to save space. The product includes a headcover, internal framework cover, and weatherproof cover.
What We Like
- Works well in compact spaces
- Consists of uniques patented gear system
- Require less maintenance
- Quiet drive system
What We Don't Like
- Company does not deal with maintenance and warranty
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Best For Larger People: Universal Stairlift Company
The universal stairlift is an American made model. It is made up of 15 feet of track which is more than enough for one-floor installations. The stairlift can be installed on the staircase of 25 to 45 degrees of inclination.
These stairlifts come with three safety mechanisms built in the model along with wireless remote control. The stairlift can hold up to 350 lbs weight of the user.
Installing the Universal stairlift is pretty quick and easy and only takes a few hours for a good installer to fit it in your house. The foot pan folds easily into the wall and gives free access to the stairs. The power plugs can be directly used in the common AC outlet.
What We Like
- Very easy to install
- Smooth ride up and down staircase
- Great price for a reliable stairlift
What We Don't Like
- 15 feet track may not be enough for many staircases
- No installation assistance is provided
Best Quality Stair Lift: Nautilus StairLift
It is one of the top worm drive-grease free stairlifts. It folds up to 10.5 inches from the staircase leaving enough access.
The Nautilus Stairlift can be customized according to your staircase. It is battery operated and directly plugs into the standard AC outlet of your house. It is mounted on the steps, not on the walls.
The model’s floor to floor measurement is 16′. The device is covered by a warranty for a lifetime on each and every part. The seat is comfortable and sturdy during the operation. It can hold up to 350 pounds of the user’s weight.
These stairlifts come with curved hand rests which makes the operation easier along with a large footrest and retractable seat belt.
What We Like
- 10.5 inches folding of chair and footrest
- Rocker control in charge and comfortable seat
- Long warranty period
What We Don't Like
- Expensive model
Best Bariatric Stairlifts: Harmar’s SL350AC Stair Lift
The Harmar’s SL350AC Stairlift is managed with a carriage installed early on a small section of long-lasting aluminum rail.
There are three different settings for the backrest and the footrest is foldable and adjusts to 2 different height levels for complete customized comfort.
The seats are comfortable and spacious and provide thick padding and impressive cushioning. It easily operates on 115VAC standard household current. The device gives access to separate operating controls at both top and bottom of the staircase.
It consists of rocker control with constant pressure which lets the lift stop immediately as soon as the control is released. It can be mounted on any side of the stairs and not on the walls.
What We Like
- Easy installation and durable
- Multiple colors available in upholstery
- Most affordable option for home
What We Don't Like
- Return is negligible due to customized product
- Requires electric wrings
If you are considering upgrading a regular sleeping mattress for your elderly loved one, then take a look at an adjustable bed for seniors. They have plenty of options that will meet your price range.
What Is A Stairlift?
A Stairlift is a Battery Powered device that is built of a motorized chair that slides up and down a staircase on a rail that is mounted on the stairs treads.
All the best-rated stairlifts consist of two main elements: a track with the textured or toothed surface, and a chair with gears or wheels at its base.
Stairlift for seniors can be installed indoors and outdoors of the home. So how can you decide which stairlift is the right choice for you or your loved one? We have all the answers you need in this stairlift review guide.
StairLifts Basic Features
- Best rated stairlifts can be easily folded when not required opening a free space on stairs.
- The stairlifts do not require wall support as the rails are mounted on the treads.
- The offset swivel seat provides a safety feature that makes a safe exit and entry at the top of the stairs.
- The sensors at the footrest stop safely when the slightest interference is made.
What Are The Different Types Of Stair Lifts?
Various types of stairlifts are available like outdoors, long or short, straight, or curved stairlifts.
#1 STRAIGHT STAIRLIFT
A basic, straight stairlift for seniors is the most inexpensive and common type of stairlift for an indoor staircase.
For homes that have a straight staircase with multiple landings, adding more than one straight lift is the only option.
Straight stairlift consists of standard rails that can be cut to fit the straight staircase. This type of stairlift weighs between 300-600 lbs and is quickly installed.
In this stairlift review, we have compiled some straight stairlifts that can be a good choice for your loved one.
#2 WHEELCHAIR STAIR CLIMBER
A Wheelchair stairlift or ramp is one of the best options for schools, colleges, businesses, and even common areas.
Installing stairlifts for seniors in public places or buildings requires speed, break, and key controls. Seniors wishing to go out for long-distance travel can opt for mobility scooters.
If commercial spaces or public buildings are on a budget then installing a commercial stairlift is the next best option. The commercial lift often weighs 400 lbs and is highly installed in churches or other worship places
#3 STAIRLIFT FOR CURVED STAIRCASE
If your house has various turns, curves, or various landings then a customized curved rail stairlift will be needed to access all the floors.
If you have a highly curved staircase then a curved stairlift for seniors can be a design challenge. Make sure you choose a stairlift that is custom-built and provides a safe and durable solution.
Referring to our stairlift reviews guide you can easily find out which option is best for your business or public spaces.
- Ask yourself before deciding which type of stairlift is a good choice for your home.
- Is the stairlift permanent or temporary? A rental can be a good option if you have short term usage.
- What size of the stairlift do you require? Make sure you choose a stairlift that can carry 300 pounds of weight.
- What color or design do you prefer? Do you want to blend it with your home decor or have the modernized look?
- Do you want to spend on premium chairs or upgrade and add other features?
- Which type of staircase do you have straight or curved? Does it have multiple levels or immediate landings?
- Where do you have your door? Near the top or bottom of the stairs? Considering a foldable seat or rail can help to maintain the stairlift crowding the door.
Make sure you try out the stairlifts for seniors in showrooms to ensure the products and the features. Ensure the seat’s width is comfortable by measuring any chair or recliners at your home.
WHAT FACTORS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING THE BEST STAIR LIFT?
They are certain factors that need consideration before buying or installing a stairlift. In this stairlift reviews, we have lined up eight common factors that you should look for before choosing the right stairlift for seniors.
COMPANY
The reason for purchasing a stairlift for seniors from a trustworthy company is that they provide a wide range of models so that you can have the best option available.
These products are safe and have premium quality, hence extra repairs and maintenance can be avoided. The companies have stairlifts that are working in showrooms so that the seniors can try it out themselves.
STRAIGHT AND CURVED STAIRLIFT
Make sure you choose the stairlifts depending upon your home’s staircase. Straight stairlifts are connected to the rail on the staircase which glides up and down in a straight line.
Curved Stairlift is suited for a type of staircase that has turns and curves or immediate landings. We have mentioned some best straight and curved stairlifts in this stairlift review guide.
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INDOOR OR OUTDOOR LOCATION
A stairlift for seniors can be installed indoors as well as outdoors. Outdoor stairlifts may require weatherproof cover to confront various weather situations.
New or Used Products
Decide whether you need a new product or a pre-owned stairlift. A dealer can customize a pre-owned stairlift according to your straight or curved staircase. Make sure you get your stairlifts to go through an inspection and precise tests. We have mentioned the process of buying stairlifts online and offline in this stairlift review guide
Safety Features
The stairlifts should behold safety features to ensure a safe ride. It should consist of a retractable seat belt, safe seating swivels and locks, speed controller, and obstacle sensors, anti-slip footrest, Emergency stop button, and constant battery operations.
Weight Capacity
Weight capacity is an important factor to look for before buying the best-rated stairlift for seniors. Make sure you choose a maximum load capacity if you are choosing it for a heavy person. The capacity of a stairlift ranges from 250 to 600 pounds.
Adjustability
Many stairlifts provide easy access to the people to quickly adjust the seat. Read our stairlifts guide to know how the seat mechanism works.
Make sure your seats have the following features:
- Operating Lever: To manage the height of the seat by their leg or hand.
- Back and Footrest Adjustments: For Maximum comfort, the user can adjust the back and footrest of the device.
- Foldable Seats: The user can easily fold the seat to access more standing space
Where To Buy A Stairlift?
BUYING ONLINE & DIY
Be careful when you buy stairlifts from an online market. Make sure you read guidelines, suggestions, and stairlifts reviews before buying any particular model for your loved ones.
Make sure you ask yourself:
- Does the stairlift prices include the shipping, taxes, and installation of a stairlift? Usually, the price mentioned is not inclusive. There are various hiding shipping costs and taxes that lifts the overall price.
- What about the installation? The stairlifts purchased online need to be installed by the buyers themselves or by a certified installer. However, DIY may reduce your costs a bit but manufacturers do not recommend it.
- What about the lift service? Companies that sell the device do not provide any kind of service either, meaning you will be stuck managing the whole fixing of the lift.
However, many best stairlift companies encourage customers to contact them through their websites to know more about the installation process of stairlifts. Customer’s or dealer’s stairlift reviews can put your doubts to rest.
SEE ALSO – Best Walker With Seat
BUYING FROM RETAILER AND DEALERS
Various Brands are available at the retailers, and these retailers focus more on assistive devices like wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and some other similar devices.
Dealers are the ones who are trained by the manufacturer and are responsible for the sales, installation, and maintenance.
BUYING FROM MANUFACTURER
Many manufacturers like to sell their products directly additionally, many companies also like to sell online or through retailers.
Companies or manufacturers ask the customer to contact them through online websites, read their stairlift reviews, and solve their issues by directly sending a representative to their homes.
How to pay for stair lifts?
Stairlift installation can be expensive. Although many companies offer to finance, it depends on the cost of the lift and your history of credit.
Make sure you explore the financing option to ensure whether you are being charged a high-interest rate.
Explore whether your insurance covers portions of buy or installation of the stairlift.
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Medicare's Policy on Stair Lifts for Low-income Buyers
Will Medicare pay for the cost of stairlifts? In this, the answer is, it depends.
Original Medicare: You have various types of medical equipment that are under part N of medicare. However, Medicare does not include stairlifts in this plan. It does not find stairlifts as essential equipment.
However, some Medicare Advantage Plans may cover the cost of the stairlift for you. Few laws are required to offer the same coverage as the original Medicare.
There are many Medicare Advantage Plans that will have benefits and guidelines, make sure you need to go through them carefully.
Also, Medicare supplement insurance does not include stairlifts coverage. Since the original Medicare does not offer any coverage, neither will the Medigap insurance and supplement suppliers.
Medicaid may pay a few portions of the cost of the stairlift. The coverage of the stairlift will depend upon the area where you live.
Financial Assistance for Veterans
Veterans who cannot climb stairs at their home due to limited mobility or health issues may receive full payment of stairlift by the veteran’s administrations.
Many veterans are eligible for full payments of the stairlifts. You can give a call to the support line for more details.
Stair Lifts and State Assistance Programs
Your state may have any assistance program that offers loans and grants to help you pay your stairlift.
These programs are made to offer free home changes so that seniors can continue to live in their homes.
Every state has its own program requirements and eligibility criteria.
To find out which programs your state has, locate an area agency on aging (AAA) by visiting the website eldercare.gov and then type out your state, city, or zip code.
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Conclusion
Here we have listed all the best stairlifts for seniors that are listed in the market and works great with every type of user.
We did the research and on the basis of different criteria, we found that AmeriGlide Horizon Plus is a great option for you. It is our top choice due to its stability, affordability, and longevity.
In the end, no matter what brand or stairlift you choose, make sure you ask plenty of questions until you are satisfied to buy the product.
References
ABOUT PENSIONS WEEK
Pensions week focuses on sound retirement strategies making aging easier for the seniors. Here you will find resources from senior housing and safety to money, health, investment and care, etc that may help you gain clarity around your retirement.
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Last update on 2023-07-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API