When getting up the stairs becomes a challenge, installing a stair lift is a great way to address the issue. Because stair lifts are reliable and can be installed in a timely manner, they are a popular pick among those looking to enhance accessibility in the home.
A less common alternative to a traditional stair chair lift is a standing stair lift. In this guide to standing stair lifts, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of standing stair lifts along with the ideal situations for installation. Let’s begin!
What Are Standing Stair Lifts?
First and foremost, let’s discuss what a standing stair lift is.
Like a traditional stair lift, a standing stair lift is a mobility device that attaches to stair treads to allow a user to move up and down the stairs without walking along them. But unlike a traditional stair lift, a standing stair lift has a smaller seat that is positioned higher up, and at an angle, so that the user can simply “perch” on it while it moves.
Standing stair lifts require the user to remain in an upright position, as opposed to a traditional sitting position, as they travel the length of the staircase. Due to the “perch”-style seating, certain considerations should be made to decide whether a standing stair lift is the right choice. Keep reading to learn more about the occasions where a standing stair lift may be best.
Best Situations for a Standing Stair Lift
Due to their unique design, standing stair lifts are not always the ideal solution for people looking to navigate stairs with ease. In some instances, however, installing a standing lift is the best course of action.
Flexibility Issues
A standing stair lift is an alternative for those with hip or knee problems that make moving into a seated position difficult.
Standing stair lift models include a “perched seat” design that provides support for the user’s back while they stand and make their way up or down the stairs. This relieves tension on the hips and knees as well so that the ride is a comfortable one.
Narrow Staircases
While stair lift requirements vary depending on the model and other factors, there are some instances where a traditional stair lift simply can’t fit comfortably on a staircase. One benefit of a standing stair lift is that it requires a smaller amount of space. Typically, if you can stand on your staircase, there is enough room for a standing stair lift.
Standing Stair Lifts: Things to Consider
In many cases, traditional seated stair lifts are the optimal solution. To determine if a standing stair lift will meet your daily needs or if you should opt for a seated stair lift, read these considerations.
1. The lift requires more balance on the part of the user.
With a standing stair lift, there is a need for balance and endurance on the part of the user. So an individual with balance issues may feel more comfortable in a seated stair lift. However, there are safety features in place that make the ride on a standing stair lift a secure one. For instance, in some models, a special safety device called an immobilizer switch ensures that the lift does not move until the safety belt is fastened.
2. It is only available on custom, or “curved rail,” stair lifts.
An important fact to consider is that standing stair lifts can only be attached to curved rails. The reason for this is related to safety. While the seat on a traditional straight rail stair lift pivots at the top to allow for a safe dismount, this same maneuver would be unsafe to attempt in a standing position. Instead, we use the flexibility of the custom, curved rail design to do a “top over-run” at the top landing, allowing the standing stair lift user to simply step straight out onto level ground.
What to Look for in a Standing Stair Lift
When shopping for a stair lift, you need a trustworthy and experienced company to guide you along the way. At Arrow Lift, we offer only top-rated lifts that are safe and reliable. Read on to learn how we put safety at the center of each standing lift.
First, Arrow Lift standing lifts are safe to use at both landings. Because they are built on a curved rail, there is no need to worry about unsafe or awkward swiveling at the top of the staircase while standing up.
In addition to this, every standing lift we offer includes a special safety switch that ensures the stair lift only moves if the safety belt is in use. Some companies offer models that do not have this feature. But at Arrow Lift, we consider it vital.
Lastly, each standing lift from Arrow Lift comes with a power footrest. We understand that bending down to fold up the footrest can be a challenge and poses a safety risk. That’s why we make it automatic at the push of a button.
Navigate Your Staircase with Ease
Finding the ideal mobility solution doesn’t have to be a hassle. Arrow Lift is here to help. Whether you want to schedule a consultation or have questions about mobility solution options, you’ll find assistance from our knowledgeable team.
To learn more about stair lift options and get guidance from experts in the industry, contact Arrow Lift today.
