Key Takeaways
- A standing stairlift (also called a perch stairlift) is designed for users who cannot sit comfortably or have difficulty bending their knees or hips.
- It allows the user to travel standing or partially perched on a small seat pad while secured by safety supports.
- Ideal for people with limited knee mobility, joint pain, or narrow staircases where a standard seated lift may not fit.
- Standing stairlifts are safe when installed correctly, but not suitable for users with poor balance, dizziness, or cognitive impairments.
- They can be installed on both straight and curved staircases.
What Is a Standing Stairlift?
A standing stairlift is a mobility device designed to carry the user up and down stairs in a near-standing, or “perch,” position rather than in a fully seated position.
It includes:
- A small perch seat or padded support
- Raised armrests or side supports
- A safety belt or knee bar
- Foot platform for stable standing
- Controls positioned higher for easy reach
The design benefits users who:
- Struggle to sit
- Have stiff joints
- Find lowering themselves into a chair difficult
- Have extremely narrow staircases
Standing stairlifts offer a secure, upright alternative to seated models.
How Does a Standing Stairlift Work?
The user stands or perches on a raised seat pad
This reduces pressure on the knees and hips.
Support structures keep the user stable.
These include armrests, knee bars, and non-slip footplates.
The stairlift travels along a rail.
Just like a standard stairlift, it uses a motorised carriage on a straight or curved rail.
Controls are placed high enough for easy use
Often on the armrest or via a remote.
Smooth, slow movement for safety
Standing stairlifts operate at the same regulated speed as seated lifts.
Who Should Consider a Standing Stairlift?
Standing/perch stairlifts are ideal for users who:
1. Have limited knee or hip mobility
Conditions such as:
- Arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Hip replacements
- Knee replacements
- Joint stiffness
Making sitting difficult, a standing lift removes that need.
2. Experience pain when bending or lowering themselves
The perch system avoids deep bending altogether.
3. Have very narrow staircases
Standing stairlifts work well on slim stairs where standard seats cannot fold out safely.
4. Have limited space at the bottom of the staircase
A standing lift requires less clearance.
5. Can stand safely and maintain balance while supported
The user must be able to stand relatively steadily for the short ride.
Who Should Not Use a Standing Stairlift?
Standing stairlifts are not suitable for people who:
- Have balance issues
- Experience dizziness or fainting
- Have advanced Parkinson’s or neurological conditions
- Cannot stand unaided
- Have vertigo or fear of heights
- Struggle with gripping support rails
- Have cognitive conditions affecting the understanding of safety processes
Safety is paramount, and sitting stairlifts remain the better option for users who need full-body support.
Types of Standing Stairlifts
Standing stairlifts come in two main forms:
1. Full Standing Stairlift
Designed for users who prefer to remain completely upright.
2. Perch Stairlift (Partial Standing)
Includes a raised perch seat that takes some body weight but keeps the knees straight.
Perch stairlifts are the most common option in UK homes.
Advantages of a Standing Stairlift
1. Perfect for narrow staircases
Needs less space than a seated model.
2. Easier for users with hip or knee conditions
Avoids painful bending.
3. Quick and simple to use
No folding/unfolding of a full chair.
4. Works on straight and curved stairs
Both types of rails are compatible.
5. Compact design
Armrests, perch seat, and footrest fold away neatly.
Disadvantages to Consider
1. Not suitable for users with poor balance
Standing requires stability throughout the journey.
2. Less comfortable for long or multi-floor staircases
A seated lift may be better for extended travel.
3. Not suitable for very frail users
They may not feel secure enough to stand or perch.
4. Requires good grip strength
Handlebars and supports must be held lightly.
Safety Features on a Standing Stairlift
Standing stairlifts typically include:
- Raised armrests for stability
- Knee safety bar to prevent forward movement
- Body harness or belt (model-dependent)
- Non-slip footplate
- Sensors that stop the lift if anything blocks the path
- Soft start/stop motor to prevent jolting
- Speed regulation for safe cornering on curved rails
Modern models are engineered to support an upright or semi-upright posture safely.
Cost of Standing Stairlifts in the UK
Prices typically range from:
- £2,000–£4,000 for straight standing stairlifts
- £4,000–£7,000+ for curved standing/perch models
- £1,500–£3,000 for reconditioned straight perch stairlifts
Costs vary depending on staircase shape, features, and manufacturer.
Bottom Line
A standing stairlift, also known as a perch stairlift, is an excellent solution for people who cannot sit comfortably or who live in homes with narrow staircases.
It allows safe, supported travel up and down the stairs while upright or semi-upright.
However, it is not suitable for users with poor balance or severe mobility limitations.
A professional assessment is essential to determine whether a standing or seated model is the safest choice.