When stairs become a problem for someone in the family, there are two ways to solve it. One is quick and inexpensive. The other is a bigger project that does more. Which is right depends on your household.
Stair lift
- A seat that rides a rail up the staircase
- Installed in a few hours
- The lower-cost choice
- Suits one person who can sit down and stand up safely
- Leaves the stairs usable for everyone else
- Can be removed later
Home elevator
- An enclosed cab that travels between floors
- Takes planning, permits and some construction
- Costs considerably more
- Suits anyone, including wheelchair and walker users
- Carries groceries and laundry as well
- A lasting improvement to the home
Questions for the family
- Can the person move onto a seat without help? If not, an elevator is safer.
- Is a wheelchair used, or likely to be? Elevator.
- How soon is help needed? A stair lift can be in place quickly, though shipping to the islands may add time for some models.
- Will the house stay in the family? If so, an elevator will serve more than one generation.
- What can the household afford? A stair lift is within reach for most.
Typical outcomes
- Grandmother with arthritis, walks with a cane: stair lift.
- Grandfather in a wheelchair after a stroke: elevator.
- Family planning an addition: include an elevator in the design.
- Recovery from surgery: stair lift.
One after the other
Some families install a stair lift now and add an elevator during a later renovation.
Do not forget the entry
If there are steps to the front door, they need attention too. A platform lift or outdoor stair lift handles them.
Have both priced
Nationwide Lifts of Hawaii installs both. Call (888) 323-8755 for a free in-home consultation.