Perch Lifts

Stair lifts are an important tool for individuals that are mobility challenged. Using a track or rail that is usually affixed to the step, an individual is literally carried up the stairs by the stair lift. Usually they use a chair and so they are often called stair chairs. There are a few models that use a perch, which is a small platform. Perch lifts are not as common, but they are just as important.

A perch lift is perfect for people who have joint problems and have trouble bending their legs enough to come to a sitting position. For these people it would be too painful to sit down on a traditional stair lift, so the perch lift becomes a good alternative. These units typically have a well reinforced handrail that the user can hold onto as they go up and down the stairs.

While a perch lift is very practical if you can not bend your knees or joints easily, but it is very important to use this device safely. Because you are standing you must be able to maintain your balance as the perch lift moves. They typically do not have a seat belt either. In a traditional stair lift you are sitting in a chair, and even with out a seat belt, you do not really have to worry about your balance. Some perch lifts have small benches that you can lean on to add support, but it is still not going to be as secure as a standard stair lift.