Home Stair Lift Solutions: Making Stairs Safer

Stair Lift Accessibility Solutions to Make Stairs Safer

Getting up and down your stairs can be easily accomplished with a home stair lift. It will allow you to take control of your stairs, giving your family members peace of mind and giving you a greater sense of independence in the home you love.

A stairlift is a piece of assistive technology, consisting of a chair that carries you safely up and down stairs, on a rail that is secured to your stair treads. Stairlifts prevent falls, help avoid tripping hazards and remove the significant barrier of the stairs (whether straight or curved), so you can enjoy the full use of your home.

Does a stair lift take up much space?

Stairlift brands that have vertical rail allows a stairlift to be installed close to the wall. That means there is maximum free space on the stairs for other family members. The Bruno Elan installs the closest to the wall of any stairlift in the industry.

How is a stairlift powered?

Stair lifts are generally battery operated and work even during a power outage. They only require a standard wall outlet to accommodate the continuous charge battery.

How much does it cost to put a lift on stairs?

New straight and curved stairlift prices vary depending on factors including the stairway configuration, length of stairway, type of stairlift and power options. You can usually get a local a free quote based on your unique home and needs. For a straight rail, I’ve seen prices range from $2,500 to $5,000. For curved, I’ve seen prices range from $12,000 to $25,000 depending on configuration.

Is a stair lift easily removed?

Generally, stairlifts can be easily removed if you are moving or no longer need it — often with little evidence the chairlift was ever there. Stair lifts are installed onto the stair treads, not the wall. No structural modifications are needed.

Does Medicare pay for stair lifts?

Stair lifts are not covered under health insurance or Medicare; however, many stairlift dealers offer financing plans. Keep in mind that stairlifts are a great option to avoid the cost of remodeling or moving. 

Is there grease or gears exposed?

Bruno stairlifts feature a sleek vertical rail with a covered gear rack, you don't need to worry about exposed grease attracting dirt, pet fur or children's fingers! There are other brands of stairlifts that don’t require grease, but the gears are exposed, so things such as pet fur can get caught in the gears.

Are used stairlifts an option?

Yes, but I would recommend only having a used stairlift installed by a certified dealer. Most dealers will not install a used stairlift if it’s over 5 years old.

What is the cost of renting a stair lift?

Experienced stair lift dealers will rent a stair lift, usually costing several hundred dollars a month. Keep in mind there will likely be an install fee, and some companies may require a minimum number of months for the rental. Usually arrangement can be made if the rental can be turned into a purchase.

Is there an alternative to a stair lift?

If you use a wheelchair and require more mobility assistance than a stair lift can provide, Kohll's RX offers several products to help you navigate your home. Some alternative options might include vertical platform lifts and FlexSteps.

Here are some popular styles of stair lifts:

Elan Stair Lift

The most popular American-made straight stairlift. Bruno's Elan is a mix of stylish design, high-quality functionality and ease-of-use operation. With a narrow vertical rail design, Bruno's Elan stairlift leaves plenty of open space on the steps for family members.

300 lb Lift Capacity (136 kg) | Limited Lifetime Warranty | Made in USA

Elite Curved Stair Lift

Stair lift built specifically for your home. The Bruno Elite Curved stair lift delivers an unmatched smooth, quiet ride from start to finish. With Bruno's signature stair lift, the quality and comfort are second to none. Add power options to further customize your Elite curved chair lift to fit your lifestyle.

400 lb Lift Capacity (190 kg) | 5-Year Limited Warranty | Made in USA

Elite Stair Lift

Quality, comfort and style with an Elite stair lift. The Bruno Elite stair lift offers worry-free access and a premium design that seamlessly blends into your home’s environment. Consider options such as power swivel seat and power folding footrest to customize your Elite stair lift to match your unique situation.

400 lb Lift Capacity (190 kg) | Limited Lifetime Warranty | Made in USA

Other things to consider when evaluating a stairlift and the answers you should expect:

  • Did the stairlift dealer have a showroom to test a variety of stairlifts?
    • YES
  • How smooth did the stairlift ride feel?
    • IT MUST BE SMOOTH. NO BUMPS.
  • How experienced is the installer of the stairlift?
    • MUST BE OVER 12 YEARS. Kohll’s Rx has a combined 36 years of experience as an installer of stairlifts.
  • Did the stairlift dealer show you various options to best fit your home?
    • YES
  • Was the stairlift dealer able to provide you local references?
    • YES
  • How much time will the stairlift provider be in your home installing the stairlift?
    • TYPICALLY 3-4 HOURS
  • How soon can the stairlift provider install the stairlift when you are ready to make the purchase?
    • WITHIN 24 HOURS IF NECESSARY

If above questions are answered appropriately then you are likely dealing with the best provider for a stairlift. For Nebraska and Iowa, I recommend Kohll’s Rx as the provider and installer of the stairlift. You can contact Kohll's Rx online or by phone at (402) 964-2349.

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