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Five Not-So-Scary Stairlift Facts

October 7, 2025

A cartoon images of an older woman on a stairlifts with jack-o-lanterns and a spooky graveyard.

Because home accessibility shouldn’t feel like a horror story.

For many homeowners, the thought of installing a stairlift can feel a little intimidating – or unnecessary. But the truth? Stairlifts are surprisingly simple, affordable, and life-changing in all the right ways. Let’s bust a few common myths and replace them with five not-so-scary facts that prove accessibility is nothing to fear.

1. Installation Is Quicker Than You Think

Forget the thought of your home turning into a construction zone. Most stairlifts install in just a few hours—often without any major changes to your stairs or walls.
The lift’s rail mounts directly to your staircase (not the wall), meaning there’s no drywall dust, no structural changes, and no spooky surprises. Professional installers measure, fit, and test your stairlift so it runs smoothly from the very first ride. And Harmar’s straight stairlifts offer even less mess by eliminating the need for lubrication or grease to run!

Translation: it’s one of the easiest home upgrades you’ll ever make.

2. It Costs Less Than Moving—or Assisted Living

Let’s talk numbers (without scaring your wallet).
The average stairlift costs between $3,000–$9,000, depending on the model and staircase type. Compare that to the average cost of assisted living—around $4,500 per month—or the emotional and financial toll of moving out of a cherished home.

A stairlift quickly pays for itself by extending your independence and comfort. It’s an investment in staying home, safely and affordably.

3. Stairlifts Are Designed with Safety in Mind

These aren’t your grandma’s rickety rides. Today’s stairlifts are equipped with seatbelts, obstruction sensors, swivel seats, overspeed governors, and smooth start/stop technology—designed to keep you steady and secure every step (or glide) of the way.
Even power outages aren’t a problem: most models include a battery backup so you’ll never be stranded mid-staircase. For example, Harmar’s stairlifts can complete up to 60 cycles (up and down) in the event of a power outage.

Safety and peace of mind? That’s a combo worth elevating.

4. They’re Custom-Fit—Not One-Size-Fits-All

Every staircase has its quirks—curves, landings, narrow treads—and your stairlift will be designed to match. Installers take precise measurements and tailor each rail for a perfect fit. And depending on the model, there are options for next-day installations – whether the rail needs to be straight or curved.
Whether you have a straight, curved, or outdoor staircase, there’s a stairlift option built just for your layout. Think of it as custom couture for your stairs.

5. They Make Independence Possible—Not Just Mobility

A stairlift isn’t just a piece of equipment—it’s a freedom machine. It allows you to keep your favorite upstairs bedroom, enjoy your home’s full layout, and move confidently without relying on others.
For many users, it’s the difference between living at home and leaving home.

And that’s about as not-scary as it gets.

Home Accessibility Isn’t Frightening—It’s Empowering

So go ahead—ditch the myths and embrace the lift.
Because the only thing that should give you goosebumps this season is a good ghost story. To learn more, contact your local Harmar dealer today! Find them on the Dealer Locator.