n recent years, standing stairlifts have become an increasingly popular mobility solution in the UK. Many individuals with limited mobility or those who experience difficulty in bending their knees or hips now have the option to safely and effortlessly navigate the stairs in their homes or other buildings. Standing stairlifts, sometimes also referred to as perch or stand-on stairlifts, provide a user-friendly alternative to traditional seated stairlifts, ensuring greater comfort and ease of use for those who need assistance in climbing stairs.
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We know that every person’s requirements and preferences are different, which is why there is an array of standing stairlift options available in the market. From straight stairlifts customised for use in homes with straight staircases to curved models designed for more complex stair configurations, there is a solution for everyone. Top suppliers in the UK offer these lifts while ensuring best-in-class safety features such as adjustable waist belts, obstacle detection sensors, and sturdy handrail support.
By understanding your specific needs and circumstances, we can help guide you toward the most appropriate standing stairlift solution. Whether it’s dealing with aches and pains or ensuring better mobility and accessibility in your home, we are dedicated to helping you maintain independence and improve your overall quality of life with the right standing stairlift selection.
Understanding Standing Stairlifts
Seated vs. Standing Stairlifts
When considering stairlift options for improved mobility and accessibility, two main types come to mind: seated and standing stairlifts. Seated stairlifts, as the name suggests, provide a comfortable seat for the user to sit on while travelling up or down the stairs. They are ideal for individuals with general mobility challenges.
On the other hand, standing stairlifts, also known as stand-on or perching stairlifts, feature a platform for the user to stand or perch on while navigating the stairs. These types of lifts are particularly beneficial for individuals who find it difficult or painful to sit down or bend their knees due to conditions such as arthritis or hip problems.
Perch Seating
Perch seating on standing stairlifts offers an alternative position for the user between standing up and sitting down. It allows them to partially sit or lean against a padded support while traversing the stairs. This option caters for those who may find standing for extended periods of time uncomfortable but have difficulty assuming a fully seated position.
Some of the advantages of perch seating include:
- Increased comfort for individuals unable to maintain either seated or standing positions
- Ability to accommodate narrow stairways where a regular stairlift may not fit
- Safety features such as seat belts and sensors to detect obstacles on the stairs
Accessibility and Mobility Aid
Standing stairlifts contribute to a more inclusive and accessible living environment by accommodating various mobility needs. They offer users with limited mobility options to navigate their home safely and with greater independence. Key benefits of these stairlifts include:
- Customisable installation for straight or curved staircases
- Support for users with specific health conditions affecting their mobility, like arthritis or hip problems
- Availability in a variety of designs and functions to suit individual preferences
In summary, understanding the differences between seated and standing stairlifts, along with the benefits of perch seating and their role as accessibility and mobility aids, can greatly assist in determining the most suitable stairlift option for individual needs.
Key Features and Safety Measures
Safety Sensors
Our standing stairlifts are equipped with safety sensors that automatically cut off power if they detect any obstruction in the lift’s path, such as objects inadvertently left on the stairs. This essential feature ensures a safe and obstruction-free journey up and down the stairs.
Safety Belt
For added security, we include a safety belt in our standing stairlifts. The belt ensures that users can secure themselves to the lift, preventing any accidental slips or falls during operation. Users can enjoy a comfortable and worry-free experience as they stand or perch on our stairlifts.
Handrails and Armrests
We recognise the importance of providing support and stability for users, especially when standing or perching during the stairlift’s journey. Therefore, our standing stairlifts come with handrails and armrests. These features enable users to safely grasp onto the lift and allow for additional security while in motion.
Footplate and Motion
Our standing stairlifts feature a sturdy platform or footplate for users to stand on during operation. This platform ensures a stable and secure surface for users to maintain their balance while in motion. In addition, the lift is designed with a delay mechanism; once the start control is pushed, the lift waits a few seconds before moving, ensuring that users are ready and comfortably positioned.
By incorporating these essential features and safety measures, our standing stairlifts offer a safe and comfortable solution for individuals with limited mobility who struggle with navigating stairs in small spaces. Our main focus is to help users maintain their independence and continue living in the comfort of their own homes.
Suitable Staircase Types
Straight Stairlifts
When it comes to fitting stairlifts, we recognise that traditional staircases play a significant role. Straight staircases are the most cost-effective and simple option for installing a standing stairlift. If your staircase is a single flight and ascends in a straight line, then a straight stairlift can be easily fitted. Installation for straight stairlifts usually takes just a couple of hours.
Curved Stairlifts
Not all staircases are straight; many have curved sections or corners that need to be navigated. In these situations, we recommend curved stairlifts, which are tailored to a curved rail to follow the shape of the staircase. Customised to fit the unique layout of your staircase, curved stairlifts ensure maximum accessibility and smooth operation. As a more bespoke option, curved stairlifts may require a longer installation time compared to straight stairlifts.
Narrow Staircases
For narrow staircases or where there is limited space due to tight accessibility, we offer standing or perch stairlifts with space-saving designs. These compact stairlifts are specially designed to accommodate users with minimal space, allowing for greater ease of movement up and down stairs. They are well suited to individuals who don’t have enough space for the standard size of stairlift. By opting for a standing or perch stairlift, you can maintain mobility in a confined stairwell without compromising on comfort or safety.
Selecting a Reliable Manufacturer
Brooks
We recommend Brooks as a reliable UK stairlift manufacturer, known for their high-quality products and exceptional customer service. The company has been in operation since 1972, ensuring their stairlifts are not only rated highly for reliability but also for being user-friendly. Brooks is especially known for its standout features such as:
- Regenerative braking system for energy efficiency
- Safety sensors to prevent accidents
- Slimline models that suit narrow staircases
Handicare
Handicare is another highly recommended stairlift manufacturer, offering a wide range of lift solutions for both straight and curved staircases. Their products are known for being highly reliable and made from quality materials, ensuring years of dependable service. Handicare stairlifts stand out for their:
- Easy and safe operation
- Customisable design to fit unique staircase layouts
- Responsive customer support team
Minivator
Minivator has been one of the UK’s leading stairlift manufacturers for over 35 years, offering a variety of lift solutions to suit different mobility needs. Their products are highly rated due to their reliable operation and commitment to delivering excellent customer service. Some key advantages of Minivator stairlifts include:
- Wide range of models catering to different mobility requirements
- Great after-sales support
- Quality construction for lasting performance
Age Co
Age Co is another reliable and highly rated manufacturer that provides various stairlift solutions in the UK. Known for their dedication to customer service, Age Co ensures its lifts are both easy to use and dependable. The company offers:
- Free in-home assessments to determine the best fit
- British-made products with quality components
- Excellent installation and maintenance support
When selecting a reliable stairlift manufacturer in the UK, keep in mind factors such as customer service, product reliability, and overall quality.
Pricing and Affordability
Price Range
In the UK, the cost of a standing stairlift largely depends on whether it is for straight or curved stairs. On average, a straight stairlift can cost around £3,371, while a curved stairlift is priced higher at around £4,728. These costs, however, do not necessarily include any additional expenses. It’s worth noting that standing stairlifts, which are tailored for those who have difficulty sitting or bending their knees, cost a similar amount to electric chair lifts.
Disabled Facilities Grant
To make standing stairlifts more affordable, the UK government offers financial assistance in the form of a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG). This grant helps cover the costs associated with installing essential home adaptations such as stairlifts for individuals with disabilities. The maximum amount you can receive depends on your personal circumstances, but it can go up to £30,000. You can apply for this grant through the local authorities.
Manufacturer Warranty
When purchasing a standing stairlift, it’s crucial to consider the manufacturer’s warranty. Most manufacturers provide a 12-month warranty, which covers parts and labour. Some manufacturers may offer extended warranties, ensuring additional peace of mind.
Here are some key points to keep in mind related to pricing and affordability:
- Standing stairlifts cost a similar amount to electric chair lifts.
- The average price for a straight standing stairlift is around £3,371, with a curved stairlift costing around £4,728.
- The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) can provide financial assistance to cover the cost of a stairlift.
- Most stairlift manufacturers provide a 12-month warranty for parts and labour, with some offering extended warranties.
By taking into account these factors, we hope that you can make an informed decision on the most suitable and affordable standing stairlift to accommodate your needs.
Professional Installation and Maintenance
Installation Process
For standing stairlifts in the UK, we recommend opting for a professional installation to ensure that the stairlift is secure, safe and meets all relevant regulations. Our certified engineers are experienced in installing various brands and models of standing stairlifts, ensuring efficient and reliable installation for your mobility needs.
Before the installation process begins, one of our engineers will perform a thorough assessment of your home and staircase to determine the most suitable model and configuration. This may involve evaluating the width and incline of your staircase, the structure of your home and considering any necessary adjustments, such as power points or carpentry work.
We understand that time is of the essence when it comes to mobility solutions. Therefore, our team makes every effort to complete the installation promptly. For example, Acorn and Stannah stairlifts typically take between one and 14 days to be installed, with the longer time frames reserved for curved stairlift models.
Repair Costs
Should your standing stairlift need any repairs, we offer a transparent and competitive pricing structure to ensure you can get back on the move as soon as possible. Repair costs may vary depending on several factors:
- The extent of the damage
- The complexity of the repair required
- The age of the stairlift
- The make and model
- Availability of replacement parts
We urge our clients to discuss their specific needs and requirements with our team to obtain an accurate quote for any repairs.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential for the long-term functioning and safety of your standing stairlift. Our maintenance packages are tailored to suit your individual needs and include services such as:
- Periodic inspections by our qualified engineers
- Comprehensive cleaning and lubrication of moving parts
- Checks on the stairlift’s operating systems
- Testing of all safety features
- Advice on proper usage and maintenance
Maintaining your stairlift will not only extend its lifespan but will also provide you with peace of mind and confidence in your mobility solution.
Benefits and Suitability
Painful Hip Problems
Standing stairlifts offer a practical solution for individuals with painful hip problems. When using a traditional seated stairlift, bending and sitting can cause further discomfort. With our standing stairlifts, users don’t need to bend, alleviating hip pain, and providing an easier way to navigate stairs.
Arthritis and Bending the Knees
Arthritis, specifically in lower body joints, can make bending the knees an agonising experience. Our standing stairlifts enable users to remain in a standing position, preventing joint pain from bending the knees, and thus enhancing mobility and independence.
Multi-story Mobility Needs
Multi-story homes can be daunting for individuals with mobility issues. A standing stairlift is an essential mobility device that restores access to every level, granting peace of mind for residents and their loved ones. By providing increased independence, users are empowered to live life without constraints.
Accessibility and Space Saving
For homes with narrow staircases, installing a traditional seated stairlift might not be feasible due to space constraints. Our standing stairlifts are specially designed for such situations, offering a space-saving solution that can be effortlessly installed on narrow stairs. As a bonus, this type of stairlift also requires less headroom, making it suitable for homes with low ceilings.
Our standing stairlifts offer:
- Effective solution for hip pain and arthritis sufferers
- Enhanced mobility and independence within multi-story homes
- Compact design to fit narrow and constrained spaces
- Faster installation and minimal disruption
In summary, our standing stairlifts in the UK provide an excellent alternative to traditional seated stairlifts, addressing various accessibility and health issues. We ensure comfort and functionality while meeting the unique needs of our valued customers.