One of the most common questions we hear from customers is, “Is this the same thing as a chairlift?” or “Is a Hoyer lift the same as a stand assist?”
The short answer is no. Understanding the differences between mobility lifts is important for safety, comfort, and choosing the right solution for your home or care environment.
Below, we explain the most commonly confused types of mobility lifts, how they work, and who they are best suited for.
Stairlifts (Not the Same as Chairlifts)
A stairlift is a motorized seat that travels along a rail mounted directly to your staircase. It allows someone to ride safely up and down stairs while seated.
Stairlifts are ideal for individuals who can sit and stand but have difficulty using stairs due to balance issues, joint pain, or limited endurance. They are commonly installed in multi-level and split-level homes.
Most stairlifts are battery powered, meaning they continue to work during power outages, and the seat, armrests, and footrest fold up when not in use so others can still use the stairs.
A common point of confusion is the term “chairlift.” Chairlifts are typically associated with ski resorts. In residential settings, stairlift is the correct term.
Lift Chairs (Power Recliners)
A lift chair is a powered recliner designed to help someone transition from sitting to standing. The chair gently lifts and tilts forward, reducing strain on the knees, hips, and back.
Lift chairs are a great option for individuals who struggle getting out of a traditional chair but do not need help transferring between surfaces.
While lift chairs provide sit-to-stand assistance, they do not lift or transport a person from one location to another.
This is one of the most common areas of misunderstanding. A lift chair helps you stand. It is not a patient lift.
Patient Lifts
Patient transfer lifts are designed to safely move individuals who cannot transfer independently or who need assistance standing, repositioning, or moving between surfaces. These lifts are commonly used in homes, hospitals, assisted living communities, and care facilities and require caregiver involvement.
If you are unsure which type of patient transfer lift is appropriate, the Freedom Mobility Solutions team can help evaluate your needs and recommend the safest mobility solution.
Power Stand Assist Lifts
Power stand assist lifts are designed for individuals who can bear some weight and actively participate in standing. These lifts support the user during sit-to-stand transfers while reducing strain on caregivers.
Power stand assist lifts offer:
Increased stability during transfers
Comfortable positioning and support
Easy-to-use powered operation
Power Patient Lifts
Power patient lifts, also known as full-body lifts, are intended for individuals with little to no weight-bearing ability. These lifts use a sling system to fully support the user during transfers.
Power patient lifts provide:
The ability to lift from the floor and over higher surfaces such as hospital beds
Fully electric operation for smooth, controlled movement
A 6-point spreader bar designed to improve comfort and weight distribution
Non-Powered Stand Assist Lifts
Non-powered stand assist lifts are a manual option for individuals who can assist with standing but need added support. These lifts are often chosen for environments where space is limited.
Non-powered stand assist lifts feature:
Assistance lifting into a standing position
A small footprint ideal for tight spaces
Simple operation by a caregiver
Need a Patient Transfer Lift or an Expert Opinion?
Choosing the right patient transfer lift depends on strength, balance, weight-bearing ability, caregiver support, and the environment where the lift will be used. The Freedom Mobility Solutions team is available to answer questions and help you find the mobility solution that best fits your needs.
Vertical Platform Lifts (VPLs)
A Vertical Platform Lift, often called a VPL, is designed to move a wheelchair or mobility scooter vertically between levels. These lifts are often used when a ramp would be too long or not practical.
VPLs are frequently installed at front porches, garages, decks, or for interior level changes. The user remains in their wheelchair or scooter while the platform lifts them safely to the next level.
Vertical platform lifts are available in open or enclosed designs and can be used in both residential and commercial settings.
Choosing the Right Lift
Selecting the right lift depends on several factors, including mobility level, ability to stand or bear weight, home layout, caregiver involvement, and whether the need is short-term or long-term.
At Freedom Mobility Solutions, we focus on education first. Our team takes the time to understand your situation and recommend the safest and most appropriate mobility solution for your needs.
We’re Here to Answer Your Questions
If you are unsure whether you need a stairlift, vertical platform lift, lift chair, or patient lift, you are not alone. These are some of the most common questions we receive every day.
If you have a question you would like us to address in a future FAQ or blog, let our team know. Chances are, if you are wondering about it, someone else is too.