If you’re among the many people wondering, “Does Medicare cover stair lifts?” know that you’re not alone.
A stair lift can be life-changing for older adults and those with mobility challenges, making homes safer and more accessible. However, many people are confused about their options when it comes to Medicare coverage for stair lifts.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Medicare coverage for stair lifts, explore potential coverage through Medicare Advantage plans, and share valuable financing alternatives to make stair lifts more affordable.
What is a Stair Lift?
Navigating stairs can be daunting for many individuals facing mobility challenges. Stairlifts, also known as stair elevators or stair gliders, offer a practical solution by providing a safe and convenient way to move between different levels of a home.
A stair lift is a device with a motorized seat that carries a person up and down the stairs on a track installed on a stairway. The seat transports the person from the bottom to the top of the stairs and vice versa.
Does Medicare Cover Stair Lift in 2025?
Medicare, the federal health insurance program primarily for individuals 65 and older, typically covers certain durable medical equipment (DME) deemed medically necessary. This includes items such as wheelchairs, walkers, and hospital beds. However, the situation is more nuanced when it comes to stair lifts.
In general, Medicare does not cover the cost of stairlifts because they are often considered to be for convenience rather than medical necessity. Representatives from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have shared that stair lifts are typically considered home modifications rather than durable medical equipment (DME). This is the reason Medicare won’t cover it.
Since Medicare’s coverage primarily focuses on services and equipment directly related to medical needs and treatments, items like stair lifts may not meet the coverage criteria.
However, it’s essential to note that there can be exceptions and variations in coverage depending on individual circumstances and specific Medicare Advantage plans.
Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer coverage for certain home modifications or assistive devices that enhance mobility, including stair lifts. Carefully review the details of your Medicare plan or consult with your insurance provider to explore any available coverage options.
Average Stair Lift Pricing in 2025
In Central Pennsylvania, stair lifts cost between $3,400 and $10,000. The cost depends on factors such as upgrades, stair lift models, taxes, staircase design, and more.
Financing Options for Stair Lifts
Older adults seeking financial aid to cover the cost of a stair lift should explore the various types of assistance. Some state Medicaid programs provide coverage for home modifications or assistive devices. This coverage may be available to individuals in financial need, which may include stair lifts.
Other nonprofit foundations and organizations offer grants and financial assistance to support those who cannot afford essential mobility aids or home modifications.
Here are the best financial assistance programs for stair lifts in Pennsylvania.
Financing Options for Stair Lifts in 2025:
- Medicaid: Older adults and low-income individuals who are eligible for Medicaid may qualify for a stair lift through Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) and/or HCBS grants. HCBS grants in Pennsylvania may help cover the cost of a stair lift.
- National Directory of Home Modifications and Repair Resources: Find funding sources for home modification and repair by city on the Pennsylvania Home Modification and Repair Resources Page.
- Veterans Health Administration: Many veterans are eligible for a stair lift grant. Contact your local VA to find out more about which programs you’re eligible for, such as the VA Aid and Attendance Benefit or the disability housing grants for veterans. Receiving Medicaid benefits will not affect your eligibility for VA health care benefits.
- Department of Housing and Urban Development Office (HUD): Many states offer grants or other financial assistance for home modifications for older adults or those with disabilities. These may include installing stair lifts. Contact the Pennsylvania HUD office to learn more about their programs.
- Private medical insurance companies: Some private health insurance covers the cost of stairlifts (or a portion of the total price). Ask your insurance provider if you need a statement from a medical professional to verify you need the device. You may need this statement for insurance to pay the total invoice.
- Local Area Agencies on Aging: Local Area Agencies on Aging provide Pennsylvania residents with resources for anyone seeking funds for aging-related needs. Call PA Link to speak to someone about grants for home modifications, or find your county’s Local Area Agency on Aging for assistance within your community.
- Rebuilding Together: As a nonprofit organization, Rebuilding Together assists those needing home repairs or modifications.
- Other Pennsylvania programs: Pennsylvania offers residents many grants, loans, or other funding for age-related needs. Funding for stair lifts is available through Help at Home (OPTIONS), the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PAFT), and the PA Housing Finance Agency (PHFA).
Other Financing Options
Independent Home Solutions offers financing options through Wisetack. Apply online to explore their offers. Different rates will apply depending on your credit score.
Does Medicare Cover Stair Lifts: FAQs
What types of mobility aids does Medicare cover?
Medicare covers certain types of durable medical equipment (DME) and devices.
How much does it cost to install stairlifts?
Installation costs are typically bundled into the overall cost of stair lifts. The average price of a standard stair lift is between $3,400 and $10,000.
Is there an alternative to a stairlift?
Yes, if a stair lift isn’t suitable for your home, you can consider handrails, grab bars, platform lifts, half-step stair climbing aids, or more serious home modifications, such as moving your bedroom to the main floor.
Does insurance cover stairlift costs?
Many insurance plans don’t cover the cost of stair lifts. Review your insurance policy to see if your plan includes coverage for a stair lift.
How can I find a good stairlift company in Central Pennsylvania?
Home modifications are serious business, and it’s hard to know who to trust. Independent Home Solutions’ team of professional stair lift installers can help make your home more accessible in one day. Get a free estimate to get started!
Our service areas in Pennsylvania include Harrisburg, Lancaster, Reading, and York.
