Do you live in a home with someone who finds climbing the stairs to be a cumbersome and even dangerous task? For many seniors and individuals with mobility challenges, staircases are among the most intimidating parts of home life. There is, however, a tried and true solution to stair climbing. You know it as the stairlift! A stairlift offers freedom, safety and peace of mind as it allows users to move between floors effortlessly and independently.

With several respected brands on the market, it’s important to understand what sets each one apart. At LifeCare Mobility Solutions, we proudly offer stairlifts from three leading stairlift manufacturers: Bruno, Handicare and Access BDD. But which brand offers you the stairlift that best meets your needs?

Bruno stairlifts offer American craftsmanship and lasting quality.

Founded in the United States, Bruno Independent Living Aids has built a global reputation for reliability and craftsmanship. Every Bruno stairlift is designed and manufactured in the U.S.A. This is a point of pride for those seeking premium-quality construction and long-term performance.

Bruno’s stairlifts are battery-powered, ensuring continued operation even during power outages. This is a crucial feature in Canadian winters when outages can be more frequent. Their custom-fit rail systems accommodate both straight and curved staircases. As well, features such as swivel seats, folding arms and footrests make them easy to use and space-efficient. Bruno also offers high weight capacity models. This makes them a suitable choice for users of varying body types.

Bruno stairlifts are an excellent choice for those who want a durable, low-maintenance mobility aid built to last for many years. They are particularly popular among homeowners who value reliability over aesthetic extras. While Bruno stairlifts tend to fall on the higher end of the price range, many find the investment worthwhile due to their superior build quality, smooth ride and strong warranty coverage.

Handicare stairlifts offer European comfort and customization.

A globally recognized brand with a strong presence in Canada, Handicare is known for its commitment to comfort, style and innovation. Handicare offers one of the broadest selections of stairlift models. This makes it easier to find a system that fits your home’s layout and your personal needs.

One of Handicare’s standout features is its focus on ergonomics and design. Their seats are carefully contoured for maximum comfort. In addition, many models offer powered swivel seats and footrests for easier entry and exit. Handicare also provides a variety of upholstery colours and finishes. That way, your stairlift can blend seamlessly with your home’s décor. It’s a feature that many homeowners appreciate when aesthetics matter.

As well, Handicare’s compact folding design helps conserve space on narrow staircases. This is ideal for older Toronto homes that often have tighter layouts. The company’s commitment to customization and comfort makes their stairlifts particularly appealing for users who want a balance of safety, convenience and modern design. Although some advanced options can raise the overall cost, Handicare remains a well-balanced choice for many GTA families.

Access BDD stairlifts offer innovative technology and sleek design.

Access BDD, a division of TK Elevator, combines precision engineering with cutting-edge technology. They deliver smooth, efficient stairlifts that are designed for complex staircase layouts. Their most popular models are Flow X and HomeGlide. They are particularly praised for their quiet operation, auto-swivel features and soft-start/stop technology.

Access BDD stairlifts are also highly versatile. They are ideal for narrow or curved staircases that require customized rail designs. Each lift is engineered to fit the unique shape and size of your staircase. This results in a smooth and unobtrusive installation. Their energy-efficient systems are perfect for homeowners looking to minimize their environmental footprint while maintaining reliability and comfort.

For those who value innovation and sleek, modern design, Access BDD offers an excellent option. The brand’s intuitive remote controls and precision engineering make operation easy for users of all abilities. The main concern with Access BDD stairlifts is that because they are often custom-built, installation timelines and costs can vary based on your home’s layout. Nevertheless, the result is a tailored, high-quality mobility solution, purpose-built for your space.

The Access BDD Flow X vs the Handicare FreeCurve.

Which of these two stellar products would you like best?

The Access BDD Flow X offers a power swivel seat, linked folding footrest and drop nose rail at start as both standard and included features. Meanwhile, the Handicare FreeCurve offers these features at additional costs.

The Access BDD Flow X also features an emergency lowering button and open armrests for side transfers as standard and included features. These features are not available with the Handicare FreeCurve.

Does size matter on your staircase?

Consider that the width of the Flow X is 13 3/8 inches when folded. When folded, the FreeCurve has a width of 17 1/2 inches.

Are you interested in a variety of colour choices?

If so, the Access BDD Flow X is the ideal choice. It comes in 10 different colours in vinyl, fabric or leather. The Handicare FreeCurve offers only four colours in either vinyl or foam.

Finally, which product offers the best manufacturer’s warranty?

The Flow X wins out with a lifetime warranty on all parts. Meanwhile, the FreeCurve offers a lifetime warranty on its motor but only 2 years on small parts.

Which stairlift is right for you?

Bruno, Handicare and Access BDD are all excellent stairlift brands. Each of them offers unique benefits. However, the best choice depends on your priorities, budget and home configuration. If you’re looking for long-term reliability and sturdy craftsmanship, Bruno is an excellent option. Its dependable engineering, quiet performance and strong warranty make it a great investment for homeowners seeking peace of mind and minimal maintenance over the years.

For those who want a combination of comfort, customization and design, Handicare stands out. It’s ideal for families who want a safe and functional stairlift that doesn’t compromise on aesthetics. This brand is perfect for homes where style matters as much as safety.

Meanwhile, Access BDD is the top choice for anyone with curved or narrow staircases. It’s also ideal for those who want the latest in stairlift technology. Its compact, customizable designs and smart engineering make it an especially attractive choice for modern homes or unique architectural spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

How long does it take to install a stairlift?

Most stairlifts can be installed within a few hours, though custom curved models may take a few days to design and fit properly.

Can a stairlift be installed on any staircase?

Yes! Straight, curved and even narrow staircases can accommodate a stairlift with the right model and rail system.

What happens if there’s a power outage?

All Bruno, Handicare and Access BDD stairlifts are battery-powered. This allows them to operate several trips even when the power is out.

How often do stairlifts need maintenance?

Routine maintenance is typically recommended once a year to ensure safe and smooth operation.

Are stairlifts covered by insurance or funding programs in Ontario?

Some Ontario residents may qualify for funding assistance through programs such as the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) or other community-based grants. Your mobility consultant can help you explore your options.

Contact us today!

If you’re considering a Bruno, Handicare or Access BDD stairlift, please don’t hesitate to call LifeCare Mobility Solutions at 416-267-9800, email us at info@lifecaremobility.ca or fill out the form on our Contact page!