A swivel seat is a device that enables the top half of the stairlift (where the user would sit) to be rotated away from the staircase so that the user is facing another direction. It’s designed to make getting on and off the stairlift easy and safe. It’s main use is usually at the very top of the stairs for direct access to the landing area. They come in two options, manual and powered.

Manual swivel seats are the standard option on most current stairlift models. Powered swivel seats are an upgraded feature. Manual swivel seats are very easy to use but do require the user to,

1. activate the swivel seat by pushing down the swivel lever

 2. use of light assisted movement to rotate the swivel seat to face the landing area. Powered swivel seats make alighting even easier and are recommended if the user is experiencing difficulties with movement in their hips for example. Because the swivel seat process is automatic then this eliminates the use of the swivel lever and any assisted movement.

How they work – Manual Swivel

Once the stairlift reaches the very top of the stairs and has stopped, the user can push the swivel lever down to activate the swivel seat. The swivel levers are located at either side of the seat so that the user can use their preferred hand to push gently down. (Powered Swivel) Once the stairlift reaches the very top of the stairs and has stopped, there will be a short delay and then the swivel seat will automatically start turning towards the landing area. Step 2. (Manual Swivel) Once the swivel seat is activated via the swivel lever the user can then gently swivel the seat by use of there hips, legs or hands. The seat is designed to be very easy to rotate so that minimal effort is required. (Powered Swivel) The seat will start moving towards the landing area slowly and gently. The swivel motion is powered by a motor meaning no movement from the user is required.

Powered  Swivel

 Once the stairlift is fully rotated and is facing the landing area, the chair will then automatically lock in place for safety so that the user can’t then fall down the stairs. It can be left in that position for the users next trip or it can be folded away flat against the wall to create space on the stairs.