Are Stairlifts Safe?
Yes, stairlifts are generally very safe, especially when installed correctly and paired with additional safety features.
Updated: June 27, 2025
At a glance:
- Safety features like seatbelts, high weight limits, battery backups, folding footrests, and emergency stop buttons all contribute to making your stair lift safer.
- Stair lifts improve safety by reducing the risk of falls. According to the National Library of Medicine (NIH), 79% of respondents who installed stair lifts reported no falls following installation.
- Stair lift safety generally requires professional installation, routine maintenance, and repairs.
If you or a senior loved one is showing signs of mobility issues, safety becomes a major concern. Many people don’t want to admit when physical limitations set in, but taking action is essential for maintaining a good quality of life.
Fortunately, if you find it difficult to get up and down the stairs, accessibility solutions are available. Having a stair lift installed is one of the best ways to improve your safety, especially when paired with additional safety features.
The Importance of Choosing The Right Stair Lift Model
There are different types of stair lifts, with the three primary models being straight, curved, and outdoor options. Stair lifts can also be electric or battery-operated. For seniors with limited mobility, choosing the best stair lift model is essential for safety. That’s because having the right model for your home’s unique staircase, or for your personalized circumstances, reduces the chance of hazardous malfunctions.
We’ve outlined the differences to help you make the best choice for your home:
| Stair lift type | When to invest | Common safety features |
|---|---|---|
| Straight stair lift | Cost-effective for staircases with no bends or landings. | Seatbelt, swivel seat, footrest, safety sensors, emergency stop button |
Curved stair lift | Can be custom-fitted for curvy or spiral staircases. | Custom rail fit, seatbelt, swivel seat, footrest, safety sensors, emergency stop button |
Outdoor stair lift | Offers weather resistance for patios, decks, and porches. | Waterproof controls, UV-resistant seat, seatbelt, footrest, and keyed access |
Battery‑operated stair lift | Offers continued use during power outages; portable and easy to install. | Battery backup, seatbelt, soft start/stop, safety sensors |
Electric stair lift | A reliable and low-maintenance solution powered by your home circuit. | Seatbelt, safety sensors, key lock, safety shut-off |
| Refurbished stair lift | Budget-friendly for long-term users; but may lack certain safety features. | Varies by model—verify during purchase |
How To Improve Stair Lift Safety With Additional Safety Features
As touched on in our table above, many stair lift models offer optional safety features. Investing in the latest stair lift technology will likely add more to the price, but preventing serious injury is worth the peace of mind.
- Safety sensors: Special sensors that can detect obstructions or malfunctions, typically located beneath the footrest or on the carriage sides. After detection, the sensor can automatically trigger a gentle stop.
- Safety belts: Range from simple to advanced; center-clasp belts are the most common, but other options include retractable armrest belts, immobilizer belts, lap‑diagonal belts, and full 5‑point harnesses for extra security.
- Swivel seats: Swivel seats, especially with powered rotation, help users safely exit the stair lift at both the bottom and top of the stairs.
- Emergency stop button: Even if your stair lift lacks sensors, an emergency stop button allows you to manually stop the lift when you need to.
- Speed limiter: Keeps the chair lift at a consistent speed and stops it if it starts moving too fast.
- Battery backup: Battery-powered stair lifts might come with backups that automatically kick in when power outages occur.
- Retractable or folding footrests and rails: The ability for footrests and rails to fold up or retract when not in use reduces tripping hazards.
- Key Lock: Prevents unauthorized use of both in-home and outdoor stair lifts—especially important when you share a home with other seniors, children, or pets.
- Diagnostic Displays: Alert users when there is a malfunction or maintenance requirement.
Modern Stair Lifts Require Expert Installation, Maintenance, and Repairs
Whether battery-powered or electric, modern stair lifts are complex systems that require careful installation, as well as regular maintenance and repairs. DIY attempts might seem like a good way to save money in the short term, but can result in costly repairs later on. Instead, we always recommend having a professional technician install your stair lift.
Installation
Stair lifts need to be installed at the right angle and with a safe maximum weight capacity. Professionals ensure this by making sure the track is secure, the power source is reliable, and the weight capacity is calibrated. Many companies offer professional installations that include warranties, making it well worth the investment.
Maintenance
Like any other battery-powered or electric system, stair lifts need regular checkups. Visits by technicians can help you spot and resolve small problems before they turn into major ones. For example, a technician can clean the track, test safety features, check the battery or power supply, and tighten any loose parts. Try getting your stair lift examined at least once a year.
Repairs
If your lift stops mid-track, moves slowly, or makes strange noises, don’t wait to call a repair tech! When stair lift users try to fix things themselves, they can risk falls or dangerous malfunctions. Trained technicians know how to safely handle the motor, sensors, and electronics, so you can get back to using a functional stair lift.
Tips for Staying Safe At The Top and Bottom of The Stairs
Retirement Living’s stair lift experts have compiled a list of tips for keeping yourself safe while you use your model:
- Keep the area clear: Reduce tripping hazards by regularly checking for and clearing clutter on stair treads and at the top and bottom of the stairs. This includes shoes, rugs, and cords.
- Always use the seatbelt: If your stair lift has a safety belt, make sure to buckle up every time you use it. This prevents you from falling down stairs if your seat suddenly stops or shifts.
- Only exit after the lift stops fully: Don’t remove your seatbelt or stand until the chair comes to a complete stop and locks into place.
- Install good lighting: Keeping both the top and bottom of the stairs well lit helps prevent nighttime accidents.
- Lock the lift when not in use: Locking the lift after use prevents unwanted movement or unauthorized use that can damage it.
- Have a grab bar nearby: Installing a nearby grab bar gives you extra support while using the lift.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most effective ways to make your stair lift safer are to:
• Choose the right model based on your needs, home layout, and staircase type.
• Add additional safety features based on your unique concerns and needs.
• Invest in proper installation, maintenance, and repairs.
Yes and no. Additional safety features can add more to the price, but the true cost of your stair lift will largely depend on how customized it needs to be for your home layout.
Used stair lifts can be very safe when purchased from a reputable source; however, you should always be cautious of private sellers who refuse to provide essential information.
The main risks of using a stair lift are falls and other injuries related to malfunctions or obstructions. Having the right model properly installed and maintained greatly reduces these risks.
Help us improve our stair lift resources! Email your stair lift safety tips to [email protected]. Your personal information will remain completely confidential.