If you or someone you loves can not safely use the stairs, then your household could likely benefit from a stair lift. Stair lifts are home lifting aids that are designed to dramatically reduce the risks that are associated with falling down the stairs. There are several different types to choose from and so it is a good idea to get an understanding of how they work before you purchase one.

Stair lifts are used to carry a person up and down the stairs. They can be installed both indoors and outdoors, but if you intend to use your stair lift outdoors, ensure that it is weather proof and rated for outdoor use. Stair lifts utilize a track that is usually attached directly to the stairs. Attached to the track is either a chair or small platform and an electrical motor. The chair or platform is attached to the motor and together they are usually referred to as the car.

Many models feature a remote control that is attached to the unit to operate it. They also usually come with call buttons for the top and bottom of the stairs. Some come with wireless remotes which can be used to operate the unit as well. Quality stair lifts also will have built in foot rest sensors, which detect objects that may interfere with the movement of the device. The chaired units also frequently have swivel seats which allow for mounting and un-mounting the device to be done in a much safer manner.

While most stair lifts utilize a chair attached to the track, so units do provide a small platform called a perch instead. The chaired stair lift is usually the safest route though, and generally the perch lift is used only by individuals who experience too much pain to easily sit down. Perch lifts have several hand holds, but they still present a more risky type of stair lift then the chaired versions do.

There are many advantages to using a stair lift and they have been shown to greatly reduce the injuries and other risks that are presented by a staircase.