
Stair Glides: Understanding Their Function and Benefits
January 20, 2025As mobility challenges increase with age or disability, navigating stairs can become a daunting task. For elderly individuals and those with physical limitations, stairs often present a barrier to independence and safety. This is where stair glides come into play.
These innovative devices are designed to provide a practical, safe, and comfortable solution for ascending and descending stairs.

In this blog, we’ll explore what stair glides are, their benefits, and how they can transform daily life for the elderly and the handicapped.
What Are Stair Glides?
Stair glides are motorized devices that allow individuals to move smoothly up and down a staircase without physical strain. Unlike traditional stair lifts, which typically feature a seat, stair glides offer the flexibility of standing or wheelchair-compatible platforms, making them highly versatile for various mobility needs.
Installed along the staircase, stair glides operate on a track system powered by a motor. The user can control the device using an easy-to-use joystick or remote, enabling them to ascend or descend with ease. Stair glides are particularly beneficial for seniors who struggle with balance or those with conditions like arthritis, chronic pain, or paralysis.
The Purpose of Stair Glides for the Elderly and Handicapped
Stair glides provide a safe and convenient solution for elderly and handicapped individuals to navigate stairs effortlessly. They enhance mobility, reduce the risk of falls, and promote independence within the home. Here are some of the ways stair glides can help the disabled and elderly.
1. Restoring Independence
For many elderly individuals, losing the ability to navigate stairs can feel like losing a part of their home. Stair glides restore independence by allowing users to access all levels of their home without relying on assistance. For instance, an elderly person recovering from hip surgery can regain the ability to move between floors without risking further injury or overexertion.
2. Enhancing Safety
Stairs are one of the most dangerous areas in a home for seniors and individuals with disabilities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, with many accidents occurring on stairs. Stair glides eliminate this risk by providing a secure and stable means of transportation, reducing the likelihood of slips and falls.
3. Improving Comfort and Convenience
Stair glides are designed with user comfort in mind. Features like padded surfaces, adjustable platforms, and smooth start-and-stop mechanisms ensure a comfortable experience. A great example is a wheelchair-compatible stair glide, which allows a user to remain seated in their wheelchair while traveling up or down the stairs.
Examples of How Stair Glides Make a Difference
- For Seniors with Chronic Pain: An 80-year-old woman with arthritis can use a stair glide to avoid the strain of climbing stairs, allowing her to live comfortably in her multi-story home without risking joint pain or fatigue.
- For a Person with Mobility Impairments: A middle-aged individual with paralysis can use a wheelchair-compatible stair glide to safely move between floors, maintaining access to their bedroom and bathroom without requiring assistance.

Additional Insights on Accessibility and Stair Solutions
To further explore mobility and stair solutions, check out these helpful blogs from EZ Living Concepts:
- Indoor Stair Lifts: How to Choose the Right One for Your Home – Learn about selecting the best indoor stair lift for your specific needs.
- Portable Stair Lifts Explained: How They Work and When to Use Them – Discover the versatility of portable stair lifts for temporary or travel-friendly solutions.
- The Importance of Handrails for Stairs: Ensuring Safety at Home – Find out how handrails complement devices like stair glides for enhanced safety.
The Benefits of Stair Glides
Stair glides offer more than just a way to navigate stairs—they provide a range of benefits that enhance safety, comfort, and independence. Let’s explore how these innovative devices can transform daily life for users.
1. Versatility
Unlike traditional stair lifts, stair glides cater to a broader range of mobility challenges. They are suitable for individuals who can stand, use a wheelchair, or have other specific mobility requirements. Some models can even accommodate curved or spiral staircases, making them a flexible choice for different home layouts.
2. Customizable Options
Many stair glides come with customizable features, such as adjustable speeds, foldable platforms, and remote control operation. These features allow users to tailor the stair glide to their specific needs and home environment.
3. Cost-Effective Accessibility
For homeowners who cannot install an elevator due to budget or space constraints, stair glides offer an affordable and efficient alternative. Their relatively quick installation process and long-term benefits make them a cost-effective solution for improving accessibility.
Strengthening the Case for Stair Glides with External References
To underscore the importance of devices like stair glides, research highlights their value:
- Fall Prevention: The CDC reports that over 3 million older adults are treated in emergency departments annually due to falls, many of which occur on stairs. Source: CDC
- Aging in Place: According to the National Aging in Place Council, 90% of seniors prefer to age in place, emphasizing the need for home accessibility solutions like stair glides. Source: National Aging in Place Council
Why Choose EZ Living Stair Glide Products?
At EZ Living Concepts, we are dedicated to improving accessibility and safety in your home. Our high-quality stair glides are designed with safety, comfort, and durability in mind. Whether you need a model for straight stairs or a custom solution for curved staircases, we offer tailored products to suit your unique needs.
Our expert team ensures seamless installation and provides ongoing support to help you enjoy a worry-free experience.
Conclusion
Stair glides are more than just a mobility aid—they are a life-changing solution for elderly individuals and those with disabilities. By restoring independence, enhancing safety, and improving comfort, stair glides transform the way users experience their homes.
If you’re considering a stair glide or want to learn more about how they can benefit you or a loved one, contact EZ Living Concepts today. Together, we can help you take the first step toward a safer and more accessible home.