Seated Chairlifts 101

A seated chairlift is a device that allows those with limited mobility to move up and down their stairs without fear of tripping or slipping. Unless you already have a chairlift in your home, you probably have tons of questions (like what the average cost of a lift chair is), and this post is here to answer them all.

Continue reading to learn everything you need to know before installing a chairlift.

Are chairlifts safe for the elderly?

The answer to this question is generally yes—but as with any piece of equipment, you’ll need to take some precautions while operating your lift. Here are a few things to consider:

  • Hire a reputable installation team: First thing’s first, always work with a qualified professional to install your chairlift. When you work with an experienced team, you can trust that the equipment will be installed correctly and won’t suddenly fail on you when you’re riding up or down the stairs.
  • Know how to operate it: Chairlifts are designed to be easy to use, but everyone should still know how to use the lift before sitting down and riding on one. All chairlifts come with helpful owner’s manuals, but your installation professional will be able to teach you how to use your lift.
  • Wear the seatbelt: Even though they move slowly, riders should always buckle up before operating their chairlift. Chairlifts are meant to prevent injuries, so the last thing you want is to accidentally fall out of the seat.
  • Adhere to weight limits: The typical weight limit for a chairlift is anywhere from 300 to 400 pounds. Exceeding this weight limit could cause permanent damage, so be sure that only one person rides it at a time.

What is the average cost of a lift chair?

A standard chairlift starts at about $3,000; however, that price can climb to $8,500 or more depending on a few different factors. These are the things that determine how much it costs to install your chairlift:

  • Type of stairwell: The biggest cost factor is the type of stairwell you have. If your stairs go straight up, your lift could cost as little as $3,000, but if you need a custom design because your stairlift wraps around, you’ll be looking at a higher bill.
  • Stairwell length and width: The further your chairlift needs to go, the more it’ll cost to install. Additionally, narrower staircases can require a custom design, which adds to the total cost.
  • Headroom: Higher ceilings are always better than low ones from a cost perspective. If you have a low ceiling and need a custom design for your lift chair, installation costs will likely be higher.

Install your chairlift today

If you’re ready to restore your freedom and live safely in your home, talk to our team at Penn York Medical today. We’re standing by, ready to give you a quote for your new chairlift or to answer any questions you may have about whether chairlifts are safe for the elderly.