Guide to Stairlifts for Churches
Stairlifts for churches make worship accessible for individuals with mobility challenges. Churches should be a space of warmth, relationship, and prayer for everyone, regardless of their age or ability. Yet, some churches don't have accessibility solutions for people in wheelchairs or who use mobility devices.
This presents a problem in many older buildings, where safe and efficient access wasn't at the top of the architects’ minds. Ornate exterior and interior staircases present obstacles for people with mobility issues. These design features create a phenomenon of silent exclusion.
The good news is that stair-related accessibility challenges in places of worship are easily solved with stairlifts. These safe, respectful, and affordable solutions empower churches to remain open and available to everyone.
Why Stairlifts Are Important for Churches
Stairlifts represent an essential upgrade for multistory and historic churches, as well as those that are only accessible via steps.
Multistory churches present practical challenges for people with limited mobility. Many historic heritage places around the world were also built before the development of accessibility standards, are were not designed for visitors with mobility devices. In the U.S., churches don't have to follow the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and many religious entities are exempt from Title III of the ADA.
Consider, however, that 57 percent of regular worshippers in the United States are 50 years or older, and one-third are at least 65 years of age. Research also shows that people with disabilities are less likely to attend church activities. Installing quality stairlifts removes a significant physical barrier to participation for a large proportion of potential churchgoers.
Benefits of Stairlifts for Churches
Stairlifts offer a wide range of benefits for churches.
Minimal renovation: Minimal architectural alteration is required when installing a new stairlift. Stairlift tracks can be shaped around ornate stairwells, protecting the building’s historical features. Elevators, in contrast, require a significant amount of structural change.
Space-saving: Modern stairlift seats fold up, allowing others to use the stairs without obstructions. This makes them far more space-efficient than wheelchair lifts.
Removable: Stairlift removal is straightforward and quick when performed by a professional. It won't cause any permanent damage, which is especially important for historic church buildings.
Versatile: Different stairlift models are available for straight and curved stairs, making them invaluable for churches with varying architectural designs.
Tip: Place another wheelchair at the top of the stairlift, as the user won’t be able to bring their device up the stairs with them.
Types of Stairlifts for Churches
The following are the most common types of stairlifts to suit different building layouts:
1. Straight Stairlifts
Straight stairlifts are designed to match straight stairs, typically without any curves or large landings. Installation is fast, and in many cases, will take one day or less.
A straight stairlift is ideal for churches that have:
Straight interior staircases to upper floors, such as fellowship halls or classrooms
A narrow staircase that leads up to the choir balconies or other elevated areas for performances or presentations
A straight interior staircase that leads to the basement, which has fellowship halls or rooms that host Bible studies or other activities
2. Curved Stairlifts
Curved stairlifts adapt to turns and spirals and follow the exact path of the staircase. They are often modified to navigate a range of stairwell types that have landings and can go around tight corners.
A curved stairlift is ideal for churches that have:
A windy or steep stairwell that leads to a choir loft
Multi-level historic sanctuaries in the church that can only be accessed by stairs
3. Outdoor Stairlifts
Outdoor stairlifts are built to withstand the elements and take users safely up and down exterior flights of stairs. They offer an ideal solution for steps leading up to the front door of chapels and sanctuaries that don’t have a wheelchair ramp.
Measuring Tip:
Before you install a curved, straight, or outdoor stairlift, measure the space at the top and bottom of the stairs.This is important to prevent obstructions or tripping hazards at the top and bottom landings.
Key Stairlift Features for Church Settings
The following are some design and usability features that a church stairlift should have:
Foldable seats and footrests: When the stairlift is idle, being able to fold up the seat and footrest will free up space for other congregants to make their way up and down the stairs.
Swivel seats: A swivel seat rotates with the user, allowing them to get on and off the lift with ease. This feature is particularly important for older adults who require extra support when moving from the lift to the stair landing.
Remote controls: Remote controls allow staff and volunteers to call the stairlift to different levels, managing the flow of traffic.
Battery-powered operation: Make sure the stairlift has a battery-powered backup to keep the device functional during blackouts. This is a must for emergency accessibility.
Safety sensors: Ensure there is an "emergency stop button" that will automatically stop the lift if an obstruction is detected. This protects children (and pets!) who are sitting on the stairs from injury.
Today's stairlift brands are even more comfortable than before, offering upholstery and larger models for especially tall or heavy individuals. Some brands also offer color customization, which is helpful for churches that want to keep their interior design aesthetic consistent.
Improve Accessibility With the Right Stairlift
Adding a stairlift to your church communicates inclusivity and removes barriers to access for older adults and people with disabilities. Stairlifts are a smart, safe, and adaptable way to move individuals with mobility issues from one level to another, allowing them to participate fully in all church activities.
Installing a stairlift in a historic building is especially beneficial for churches that have a dynamic range of stairwells. Choose from a curved, straight, or outdoor stairlift depending on the building’s design. Adding a stairlift isn't just about helping one person with a disability get up the stairs. It goes beyond the practicalities to say, “We value you."