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The majority of older adults, about 3 out of 4, want to grow old instead. But many are also aware that their current home may not have the perfect setup to do this, especially if they live in a house with more than one story. Stairs can be a big safety issue, especially if there are balance or mobility issues.
A stair lift, a motorized chair that attaches to a rail to slide it up and down safely, may seem like a perfect solution. But there’s a catch: They can cost thousands of dollars and aren’t covered by traditional Medicare.
This is because Medicare classifies them as home modifications, not durable medical equipment (DME), like a walker or wheelchair, which is paid for under Part B coverage. Under Part B, DME must be considered “medically necessary” and ordered by a Medicare participating physician. Medicare also doesn’t pay for equipment it deems used for “comfort or convenience,” like bathroom grab bars, handrails, or wheelchair ramps. Similarly, no Medigap supplement plan will cover stairlifts, since they only pay for the remaining costs of Medicare-covered expenses.
Some Medicare Advantage plans or long-term care insurance may cover all or part of the cost of installing and maintaining a stair lift, but this benefit varies greatly from plan to plan. However, if you or a loved one is considered dual-eligible, meaning you receive both Medicare and Medicaid (the joint federal and state program for low-income people), a stair lift may be covered through Services Based in the home and community (HCBS). ) resigns. Coverage varies from state to state and you must meet the care threshold, which requires you to be “nursing home eligible” and without these services, you would have to live in an institutional setting.
Paying out of pocket
If you plan to install a stair lift, there are several things to consider when shopping around, according to OptionsHME, a home medical equipment company in Highland, Illinois:
- Is a stair lift your best option? Riders must be able to get on and off with minimal assistance (such as a cane). If not, a wheelchair lift or lift may better suit your needs.
- Do you need a straight or curved lift? Straight elevators are best for a single flight of stairs, with no intermediate landings. If not, you’ll probably need a curved lift, which can be further customized to the contours of your home’s stairwell, but costs considerably more.
- Do you want to buy new, buy used or rent? Most reputable medical equipment companies will offer a variety of options. Used vs. new can save you thousands of dollars. Renting may be a better option if your situation is temporary, such as recovering from a serious fall or surgery.
- How much does the installation cost? It will most likely be an additional cost, and depending on the complexity, it could add another $2,000 to your final bill. However, for safety (and possibly warranty) reasons, it is advisable to have the work done by a professional.
- What is the schedule and cost of maintenance? Most companies offer a service contract to ensure that your lift continues to run safely and smoothly. Budget at least a few hundred dollars a year for this service.
- What are the customization options? Many stair lift manufacturers offer a wide variety of designs, shapes, and sizes, including models that fit narrow stairs in older homes. Seats, footrests and even the upholstery of the chairs can be modified; Folding rails or units with increased weight capacity can be added, according to BraunAbility, one of the leading manufacturers of mobility devices in the US But keep in mind that the cost of custom lifts can add up quickly.
- Is there a backup battery? Most units will include a fail-safe rechargeable battery, in case electrical power is lost. Request a demo of how and when it is activated.
- What type of guarantee is offered? Make sure you understand what is covered and what is not, and for how long.
- Is financing available? Many reputable companies offer financing if you want to pay in installments, but check the terms and rates carefully.
In addition, AARP suggests that if you’re a veteran, check out the Department of Veterans Affairs programs that help with home adaptations to see if you qualify for financial assistance. While most grants are for service-connected disabilities, VA’s Home Improvement and Structural Alterations (HISA) program also provides some funding to veterans for non-service-connected needs.
Also, check with your accountant or financial adviser about possible home improvement tax breaks; a stair lift may qualify as a tax deductible medical expense.
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