Many families consider stairlifts for elders as a mobility solution. The chair that runs along a rail on the staircase may seem practical and relatively quick to install. However, behind the impression of safety, there are hidden risks that are often overlooked. Is a stairlift truly the best long-term solution?
Stairlifts are not risk-free. Common issues include:
Getting stuck midway → which can cause anxiety, especially when elders are alone.
Difficult emergency evacuation → for example, during a fire, a stairlift cannot be used.
Risk of falling when sitting down or standing up → especially for seniors with balance problems.
According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of injury among people aged 65+. The WHO also highlights that falls are the second leading cause of accidental injury-related deaths worldwide.
Because stairlifts are installed on the side of the staircase, they can:
Make stairs narrower and harder to walk on.
Increase the risk of tripping for children.
Reduce the aesthetic value of modern homes.
Installing a stairlift isn’t always straightforward:
Narrow or sharply curved stairs require major modifications.
Installation can disrupt architectural design.
Extra costs may arise if structural changes are needed.
A stairlift only accommodates one seated person. This means:
It cannot be used by children or wheelchair users.
It cannot carry items such as groceries, luggage, or laundry.
Its function is limited to helping elders move up and down the stairs.
In comparison, Cibes HomeLift offers a more complete mobility solution:
Maximum safety → smart sensors & international certifications.
Family-friendly → accessible for all family members, including wheelchair users.
Space-saving → elegant design without compromising architecture.
High flexibility → installation without the need for a machine room.
Factor | Stairlifts for Elders | Cibes HomeLift |
Safety | Risk of breakdowns & falls | Certified safe, no fall risk |
Space & Design | Makes stairs narrower | Modern, elegant design |
Flexibility | Only 1 seated person | All family members, wheelchairs |
Installation | Complicated on curved stairs | Easy, no machine room needed |
Functionality | Cannot carry items | Can carry both people & items |
Property Value | Rarely adds value | Significantly increases value |
1. Are stairlifts a good quick solution?
Yes, they work in the short term. But their limitations become clear over time.
2. Are stairlifts safe for all elders?
Not always. The act of sitting down or standing up can be risky for elders with balance issues.
3. Is a HomeLift more functional than a stairlift?
Yes. Cibes HomeLift can be used by anyone, including children and wheelchair users.
4. Does installing a HomeLift require major renovation?
No. Its machine-room-free design makes installation efficient and flexible.
Stairlifts for elders may look practical today, but they are not the safest or most functional long-term solution. Safety risks, limited use, and the negative impact on home aesthetics make them less ideal.
On the other hand, Cibes HomeLift provides safety, comfort, and added property value—making it a smart long-term investment for your family.
Looking for a safe and stylish home mobility solution? Contact the Cibes team through our official page for a free consultation.
