Glossary of Stairlift Terms for Accessibility Needs

Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2010/06/30 - Updated: 2025/04/23
Publication Type: Informative
Topic: Glossary and Definitions - Publications List

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Insights, Updates

Synopsis: This information provides a comprehensive glossary of stairlift terms, offering clear definitions and explanations of the components, features, and terminology commonly encountered in the stairlift industry. Authored by an experienced editor who advocates for the social model of disability, the glossary is particularly authoritative and useful for individuals with disabilities, seniors, caregivers, and anyone considering the purchase or installation of a stairlift. It covers essential terms such as stairlift tracks, swivel seats, diagnostic displays, power types (AC/DC), safety features, and specialized options like perch seats and hinge tracks, all explained in accessible language. This makes the information especially helpful for those with mobility challenges, as it demystifies technical jargon, aids in informed decision-making, and clarifies what to expect from modern stairlift systems, including safety and customization options that address a wide range of user needs - Disabled World (DW).

Introduction

Stairlifts are highly individualized units that vary in price significantly. However, many base units begin between $3,000 and $5,000. Many options affect this base pricing, including the length of railing needed, any curves involved, seat upgrades, motor upgrades, seat swivel, seat and foot pedal folding, and power type.

Stairlifts are largely operated using a control on the arm of the lift. This is either a switch or a toggle-type lever. This larger toggle switch enables users, even with limited mobility or painful condition to use stairlifts easily and safely.

Main Item

Stairlift Terms and Definitions

Stairlift Track

The stairlift track is fixed in most cases directly to the stairs and not the wall. The stairlift unit is then fixed upon the track enabling the stairlift to move up and down the stairs. Stairlift tracks are usually around 4-5" wide and are made from aluminum.

Powered / Manual Swivel Seat

A swivel seat is a device that enables the top half of the stairlift (where the user would sit) to be rotated away from the staircase so that the user is facing another direction. It's designed to make getting on and off the stairlift easy and safe. Its main use is usually at the top of the stairs for direct access to the landing area. They come in two options, manual and powered. Manual swivel seats are the standard option on most current stairlift models. Powered swivel seats are an upgraded feature.

Width When Folded

The majority of stairlifts come with folding arms, seats, and footrests. "Width when folded" measurements give the user an idea of how much room will be available on the stairs once the stairlift is folded away after use (arms, seat, and footrest folded together against the wall).

Diagnostic Display

Most stairlifts now come fitted with a diagnostic display as standard. This enables the user to identify a problem with the stairlift via the handbook and gives stairlift engineers a quick guide to any problems.

Weight Capacity

This refers to the maximum user weight that the stairlift can carry up and down the stairs.

AC Powered

AC stands for Alternating Current and is commonly associated with older electric-driven stairlifts.

DC Powered

DC stands for Direct Current meaning battery operated. Most of today's stairlifts are powered this way due to the many advantages over AC-powered stairlifts.

Toggle Controls / Joystick

Usually located on the stairlift arm, the toggle controls/joystick is a simple device that enables the user to operate the stairlift by lightly pressing left or right to control the direction up or down the stairs.

Parking Points / Charging Points

Parking points are usually located at the top and bottom of the stairlift track where the user would end their journey and are a common feature on DC powered stairlifts. Charging points are usually fitted in the same place so that when the stairlift is parked either at the top or bottom, the stairlift batteries are charged automatically.

Manual / Powered Hinge Track

Occasionally, the design of the hallway and positioning of doors at the bottom of the stairs means the stairlift is unable to park at the very bottom. A hinge track can overcome this problem as it's designed to fold the bottom part down and up when unused. They come in two options, powered and manual.

Manual / Powered Footrest

Footrests are a standard feature on all stairlifts and offer support and comfort while traveling along the stairs and when descending the stairlift. Manual footrests can be raised or lowered via the footrest handle, and powered footrests can be operated by the press of a button and are automatically lowered and raised by a motor.

Stand And Perch / Perched Stairlift

Ideal for users who cannot bend their knees to sit; the seat is higher, and the user perches on the seat. This can also be an advantage on narrow stairs to stop the knees from protruding out as far.

Safety Edges

Safety edges stop the stairlift immediately if anything is blocking its progress along the stairs. This then enables the user to remove the obstruction safely. These are usually located around the footrest and stairlift carriage.

Insights, Analysis, and Developments

Editorial Note: In a market where accessibility and safety are paramount, resources that break down complex technical language into understandable terms are invaluable. This glossary not only educates potential users and their families but also bridges the gap between manufacturers, healthcare professionals, and end-users. By demystifying technical jargon, this glossary serves not only as a practical reference but also as a reminder of the importance of accessible communication in enhancing quality of life for seniors and individuals with disabilities - Disabled World (DW).

Author Credentials: Ian was born and grew up in Australia. Since then, he has traveled and lived in numerous locations and currently resides in Montreal, Canada. Ian is the founder, a writer, and editor in chief for Disabled World. Ian believes in the Social Model of Disability, a belief developed by disabled people in the 1970s. The social model changes the focus away from people's impairments and towards removing barriers that disabled people face daily. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and achievements, .

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Citing and References

Founded in 2004, Disabled World (DW) is a leading resource on disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility, supporting the disability community. Learn more on our About Us page.

Cite This Page: Disabled World. (2010, June 30 - Last revised: 2025, April 23). Glossary of Stairlift Terms for Accessibility Needs. Disabled World (DW). Retrieved April 29, 2025 from www.disabled-world.com/definitions/stairlift-terms.php

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