Stair lift statistics 2024
A stair lift is a motorized device that rides along a staircase to carry users up and down the steps, offering individuals with restricted mobility a secure way to access different levels of their homes or other buildings.
For seniors facing mobility challenges, navigating stairs presents a significant difficulty, with 17% of households reporting it as the most common disability. Stair-related falls account for a considerable number of injuries among this demographic. By offering a secure and dependable way to move between floors, stair lifts play a crucial role in mitigating the risk of falls and trips on stairs, ensuring safer home environments for the elderly and other individuals with mobility challenges.
The global stair lift market is projected to expand by 63%, growing from approximately $874 million in 2022 to an estimated $1,387 million by 2030.
Jump to insightGlobally, in 2022 the residential use of stair lifts and climbing devices accounted for almost 62% of the market share.
Jump to insightIn North America in particular, the residential sector followed the global trend, accounting for 60% of the market share.
Jump to insightNearly all U.S. homes will need to be modified to improve accessibility for those with limited mobility. Currently, just 3.5% of existing homes are equipped with single-floor living, no-step entries, and extra-wide hallways and doors.
Jump to insightStair lift statistics
According to Verified Market Research, in 2022 the global market for stair lifts was valued at approximately $874 million. It is estimated that by 2030 this segment will reach almost $1,387 million. The increase corresponds to a compound annual growth rate of 5.95% from 2023 to 2030. The growing trend can be attributed to several factors, including:
- Aging population: Globally, the percentage of the population aged 65 and above is projected to increase from 10% in 2022 to 16% by 2050.5 Specifically, in the U.S., the senior cohort is expected to grow from 17% of the total U.S. population in 2022 to 23% by 2050.
- Increasing desire to age-in-place: 76% of individuals aged 50 and older indicated a preference to stay in their homes for as long as they can.
- Shift toward home-based care: The pandemic accelerated the shift toward home care, making it a safer and more favored choice for seniors and those with mobility challenges.
- Rising rates of disability: The World Health Organization estimates that at least one-third of the global population will require rehabilitation at some point during an illness or following an injury, with musculoskeletal disorders being the most common condition.
In 2022, North America led the stair lift market, accounting for 43.3% of the global market share. This dominance is attributed to the region’s increasing elderly population and a generally higher awareness of mobility and accessibility solutions, as well as the availability of funding programs.
Types of stair lifts
The selection of an appropriate stair lift depends on the configuration of the staircase, individual mobility needs, and the user’s specific requirements. The most common home stair lift variations include:
- Straight stair lifts: Straight stair lifts are the most affordable and simplest to install. They are designed to accommodate a single straight flight of stairs. Due to their compatibility with any straight staircase, straight stair lifts are often available for rent, making them one of the most versatile options.
- Curved stair lifts: These are specifically designed and installed to accommodate the individual curves of a stairway, resulting in a higher cost compared to straight stair lifts.
- Outdoor stair lifts: These lifts are designed for outdoor use, built to endure harsh temperatures and weather conditions. They are mounted on a deck or patio staircase, enabling users to reach their entryway.
- Seated stair lifts: These lifts feature a seat equipped with a back and a footrest, which are usually adjustable.
- Standing stair lifts: Standing stair lifts provide a platform that enables the user to remain upright while securely holding onto the sides of the lift. Standing stair lifts provide a platform that enables the user to remain upright while securely holding onto the sides of the lift. They are designed for individuals who have difficulty sitting or trouble bending their knees.
Residential vs commercial use
In 2022, the distribution of the market share for stair lifts and other climbing devices by end-use was as follows:
Worldwide:
- Residential: 61.8%
- Commercial: 38.8%. This sector can be further divided into two segments:
- Hospitals: 16.1%
- Others: 22.1%. This segment includes specialty clinics, government buildings, and other commercial buildings.
In North America (U.S. and Canada), the market share mirrored the global pattern:
- Residential: 60.0%
- Commercial: 40.0%. This sector can be further divided into two segments:
- Hospitals: 17.7%
- Others: 22.3%.
The residential sector is anticipated to retain the largest market share, mainly due to the increasing elderly population.
Stair lift costs
The installation of a stair lift often presents a cost-effective solution compared to extensive home modifications or moving to a new residence or a care facility. That said, stair lifts come with a significant initial investment for both purchase and installation. In addition, there are limitations in insurance coverage, reimbursement options, and government programs offering financial assistance for home modifications.
The purchase and installation costs of a stair lift are primarily influenced by the type of stair lift and the configuration of the staircase, with the presence of curves being a key factor.
For straight staircases, stair lift prices range from $2,000 to $8,500. In contrast, curved stair lifts, where the rail must be custom-made to fit a particular staircase, are priced between $7,500 and $15,000. Outdoor stair lifts, designed to withstand external conditions, cost between $3,500 and $12,000.
In addition, the cost for yearly maintenance of a stair lift usually falls between $100 and $300 per visit.
FAQ
What percentage of homes in the U.S. would require modifications (such as the installation of stair lifts) to increase accessibility for people with limited mobility?
Almost all homes in the U.S. will require modifications. In fact, only 3.5% of existing homes feature single-floor living, no-step entries, and extra-wide hallways and doors.
What is the most frequently reported problem in households with seniors who have limited mobility?
For seniors facing mobility challenges, navigating stairs presents a significant difficulty, with 17% of U.S. households reporting it as the most common disability.
How much does it cost to purchase and install a stair lift?
The cost to purchase and install a stair lift ranges from $2,000 to over $15,000, depending on factors such as the stairwell's length, its shape, and the user’s requirements.
Does Medicare cover stair lift purchases and installation costs?
Medicare does not provide coverage for home modifications. That said, there are other federal programs available. They include Medicaid waivers for disabled elderly beneficiaries and the USDA’s Section 504 home repair program, which is aimed at rural communities. Nonetheless, access to these programs is limited.
References
- Tural, E., Lu, D., Cole, D. “Factors predicting older Adults’ attitudes toward and intentions to use stair mobility assistive designs at home.” Preventive Medicine Reports. Evaluated Feb. 5, 2024. Link Here
- “Stair Lifts and Climbing Devices Market Size.” Global Market Insights. Evaluated Feb. 6, 2024. Link Here
- “Stair Lifts Market Size And Forecast.” Verified Market Research. Evaluated Feb. 5, 2024. Link Here
- “Stair Lifts and Climbing Devices Market Report, 2023-2032” Global Market Insights. Evaluated Feb. 5, 2024. Link Here
- “Ageing” United Nations. Evaluated Feb. 7, 2024. Link Here
- Mather, M., Scommegna, P. “Fact Sheet: Aging in the United States” Population Reference Bureau. Evaluated Feb. 7, 2024. Link Here
- “Global report on assistive technology”.\ World Health Organization and United Nations Children’s Fund. Evaluated Feb. 6, 2024. Link Here
- “Stay in Your Home with a Straight vs Curved Stairlift” National Seating and Mobility. Evaluated Feb. 6, 2024. Link Here
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