Most seniors (about three-quarters) want to spend their retirement years in place. But many also realize that their current home may not be perfectly set up to do this, especially if they live in a home with more than one floor. Stairs can be a huge safety concern, especially if there are balance or movement issues.
A stairlift—a motorized chair that attaches to rails that allow you to slide up and down safely—seems like the perfect solution. But, there’s a catch: They can cost thousands of dollars and aren’t covered by traditional health insurance.
That’s because Medicare classifies them as home modifications, rather than durable medical equipment (DME) such as walkers or wheelchairs, which are covered by Part B insurance. Under Part B, DME must be deemed “medically necessary” and prescribed by a Medicare-enrolled physician. Medicare also doesn’t pay for equipment it considers for “comfort or convenience,” such as bathroom grab bars, grab bars, or wheelchair ramps. Likewise, Medigap supplemental plans will not cover stairlifts because they only pay the remainder of what Medicare covers.
Some Medicare Advantage plans or long-term care insurance may cover all or part of the cost of installing and maintaining a stairlift, but this benefit varies by plan. However, if you or a loved one is considered dual eligible, meaning you receive both Medicare and Medicaid (a joint federal/state program for low-income individuals), the stairlift may be exempt through Home and Community Services (HCBS) coverage). Coverage varies from state to state, and you must meet the nursing threshold, which requires you to be “nursing home eligible,” without which you would have to live in an institutional setting.
pay out of pocket
If you do plan to install a stairlift, here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping around, says OptionsHME, a home medical equipment company in Heights, Illinois:
- Is a stair lift right for you? Users must be able to get in and out of the vehicle with minimal assistance such as crutches. Otherwise, a wheelchair lift or elevator may better suit your needs.
- Do you need a straight lift or a curved lift? Straight ladders are best for single flights of stairs with no landings in between. Otherwise, you may need a curved lift, which can be further customized to the contours of your home’s stairs, but at a much higher cost.
- Do you want to buy new, second hand or rent? Most reputable medical device companies will offer a variety of options. Used goods can save thousands of dollars compared to new goods. If your situation is temporary, such as recovering from a serious fall or surgery, renting may be a better option.
- How much does it cost to install? This is likely an additional cost, and depending on complexity, could add another $2,000 to the final bill. However, for safety (and possibly warranty) reasons, it’s wise to have a professional do the job.
- What is the timeline and cost of maintenance? Most companies will offer a service contract to ensure your elevator continues to run safely and smoothly. Budget at least a few hundred dollars a year for this service.
- What are the options for customization? Many stairlift manufacturers offer a variety of designs, shapes, and sizes, including models that fit narrow stairs in older homes. Seats, footrests, and even the chair’s upholstery can be modified; folding rails or units with greater weight-bearing capacity can be added, says BraunAbility, one of the nation’s leading manufacturers of mobility devices. However, be aware that the cost of a custom lift can add up quickly.
- Do you have spare batteries? Most devices come with rechargeable batteries as a failsafe in case of power outages. Ask for a demonstration of how and when to activate.
- What type of warranty is offered? Make sure you understand what’s covered, what’s not covered, and how long it’s covered.
- Is financing available? If you want to pay in installments, many reputable companies will offer financing, but check the terms and rates carefully.
Additionally, AARP advises that if you are a veteran, check out the Department of Veterans Affairs’ programs to help with family adjustment to see if you qualify for financial assistance. While most grants are for service-related disabilities, the Veterans Administration’s Home Improvement and Structural Alterations (HISA) program also provides veterans with some funding for non-service-related needs.
Also, check with your accountant or financial advisor about possible tax deductions for home improvements; a stairlift may qualify as a tax deduction for medical expenses.
