Stairlift Controls – Toggles, Rocker Switches & Joysticks Explained

When shopping for the right stairlift, it’s important to remember that straight stairlifts and curved stairlifts have different operating controls depending on the make or model you choose. If you are considering buying a stairlift, the type of feature switch it has may significantly influence your choice of product. 

All stairlift controls are designed for ease of use, but there are various reasons why a buyer may prefer one operating device over another. The most common is if the user has restricted mobility in their hands.

Here is Ransome Mobility’s brief guide to the differences between toggles, rocker switches and joysticks, so you can decide which one works best for you. We’ll outline the benefits of each type of stairlift control and explain which manufacturers offer these designs to help you choose.

Toggles

Stairlift toggles are simple to operate, as there is no need to press down on the controls. Instead, it works by gently pointing it in the direction that you would like to move (up or down). As with many stairlift controls, you can choose to have the toggle switch on the left or right-hand side of the chair for easier use, depending on your requirements.

Stairlift manufacturer Minivator is known for its distinctive toggle, designed for the use of those with arthritic fingers. If you’re interested in exploring this brand, we recommend the Minivator 1000, the Simplicity 950, the Simplicity 950+, and the Minivator 2000, which all offer reliability and value for money.

The Minivator toggle was designed after consulting with various occupational therapists. It is easily identifiable by its blue colour, and it is placed in a handy position at the end edge of the armrest, so it won’t be operated accidentally as you get in and out of the chair.

Rocker Switches

Rocker switches are another form of start and stop mechanism, and just as with the toggle, they can be fitted on the right or left-hand side of the armrest. It works in a similar way to the on-off mechanism of a light switch: it responds to pressure, and while one side is pushed in, the other side is raised.

Rocker switches are used for a number of common household electrical devices, such as wall sockets and kettles. It is a popular on-off switch as pressure is needed to operate it, making it difficult to turn on or off in error. This is why rocker switches are a good device for use on stairlifts.

Some stairlift users prefer this design because of its comfort and ease of use. For this reason, it is a good option for people without fine motor control. Rocker switches are available on the Homeadapt Elite Curved and Homeadapt Straight Stairlift, which also benefit from a 30 stone weight capacity.

Joysticks

A joystick is a small stick fixed to a base that can be turned in different directions to control movement. It is commonly used, from aircraft to computer games to machinery. They are also used to control electric-powered wheelchairs as they are so reliable and easy to operate.

Joysticks are available on the following stairlift models: Homeglide Extra Straight Stairlift and the Flow 2 Curved Stairlift. With Homeglide, you have a choice of three joysticks as standard, so you can decide which one works best for you. Other types of stairlifts with joystick control are the Freelift Van Gogh Stairlift and the Platinum Curved Stairlift.

Which type of stairlift control will suit you best?

If you haven’t used a stairlift before, then it may not be obvious which type of control you will find easiest to use. Since every person is slightly different, with varying combinations of hand strength and mobility, the only way to really compare them is to try them for yourself. Simply arrange a visit to our showroom in Woodbridge, Suffolk, and we’ll be happy to let you try any of our stairlifts, including the controls.

About Ransome Mobility

Ransome Mobility sell a wide range of straight stairlifts and curved stairlifts for homes and businesses, and our qualified team of staff can talk through the various options with you during a home visit.

Alternatively, you can visit our Suffolk showroom to see some of our products first-hand. Just call us on 01473 727263 to find out more, or to book an appointment for a showroom visit.