Some consumers may wonder how to address multiple stairways or steps in the home and whether they should install multiple stairlifts to enhance accessibility. There are alternatives to stairlifts for some of these situations, like portable or permanent ramps, or consumers may opt to install more than one lift, depending on the home environment and configuration.
When facing mobility challenges or limitations, know that there are quality stairlifts and equipment that can enhance accessibility and overcome these obstacles. This may be particularly relevant for seniors that want to remain in their own homes, to age in place, while still retaining quality of life and accessibility over the home surroundings.
There are numerous mobility aids and devices that can make life easier and more comfortable, from ramps to scooters, but a stairlift may be the one device that truly increases access and allows the user to age in place. Fall risks surrounding the use of the stairs may be reduced when you professionally install a high-quality stairlift from a reputable vendor. Remember to never allow an unqualified or unlicensed person to install your lift, as it can nullify any warranty and be potentially hazardous to users, too.
So, the question is, should you install multiple stairlifts in your home? Here is what you need to know first:
Consider your Budget
The choice of whether to implement a second, or more stairlifts, may simply come down to your budget, and what you are willing to pay for accessibility. It may be that some parts of the home are not necessary for you to access regularly or you may want to consider if living on a single level makes sense for you and your situation as an alternative solution.
Configuration is Key
When contemplating options, it really comes down to the configuration of your living space. How is it laid out? How many levels are there? What about outdoor space and access? These are questions to consider when you weigh the pros and cons of installing multiple stairlifts in the home.
Some homes may not need a second stairlift for comfort and convenience, while other configurations may have accessibility issues that a second stairlift rectifies.
Identify the Access Points
Determine if you can optimize access by installing a stairlift near the main access points of the home, contingent on where the stairs are located. This is also a good approach for outdoor lifts like you would use for a multi-level outdoor living space, for the most accessibility with one lift.
So, for instance, where do you spend the most time? Which steps or stairs are near the entry or exit to the home? Are you planning to install a lift inside or outside? Identify points of access that you need during your normal routine to find the most pragmatic solution to increasing accessibility, as well as to reveal which options will work best for you.
Look for Landings
If your goal is to gain access to multi-levels of the same home, look for landings. It makes sense to install two lifts on the same stairwell as long as there is a landing that allows for it. When your home features two separate stairways of steps with a landing in-between, two stairlifts may be the only viable option for accessibility. Plus, this offers a central location for a lift to access different areas of the environment, such as the kitchen or porch on one level and bedroom or bathroom on another. In fact, there are some home configurations that are most aptly enhanced with two stairlifts. Talk to a reputable and qualified mobility professional to learn more about your distinct options.
Age in Place
If you have mobility challenges, install ramps to increase accessibility, while also reducing the risk of a fall. Ramps come in a wide range of styles and sizes, but you also have the choice of a portable ramp. These are cost-effective since you don’t need professional installation, and you can take them with you on the go, as needed! Portable ramps are just another aid to assist those seniors that are aging in place and that wish to remain in their own homes.
The key to aging in place is autonomy, and stairlifts can contribute to the independence of the user. Lifts, when installed properly, are safe and easy to use, enhancing access to all areas of the home.
Whether you are thinking about one stairlift or several, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility first. In fact, we have been serving the mobility needs of consumers in Southern California for generations, providing quality mobility aids and equipment widely, and are waiting to help you, too. Let’s talk about whether it makes sense to install more than one stairlift in your home environment; call or visit to learn more about multiple mobility aids in your home today.
President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.
24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)