What are the different types of stair lifts?
There are three types of stair lifts: straight, curved, and outdoor. Straight stair lifts are suitable for standard staircases, while curved units are ideal for curved staircases, and outdoor stair lifts are made to withstand outdoor elements.
Will Medicare pay for stair lifts for seniors?
No, Medicare will not pay for stair lifts. Medicare covers durable medical equipment (DME), but stair lifts are typically not classified as DME. Select Medicare Advantage plans may cover part of a stair lift.
How much do stair lifts for seniors cost?
Stair lifts in Reading, PA, cost between $3,400 and $10,000. Curved and outdoor stair lifts cost more, starting at $10,000 and going up to $27,000. Different factors affect cost, including materials and customization.
Who is eligible for a free stair lift for seniors?
Many older adults may qualify for financial assistance to purchase a stair lift. Look for home renovation grants, loans, or financial aid from Pennsylvania’s Department for Aging and Disability Services, the Pennsylvania U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the VA for retired military members.
How does a stair lift benefit older adults in their daily lives?
Many older adults struggle with stairs, especially those living in multi-level homes with a bedroom on the top floor and the kitchen and other living spaces below. Having to walk up and down stairs daily can cause anxiety and stress.
If you can afford them, stair lifts are a great way to reduce stress without having to move into a single-level home or assisted living. They can also reduce the risk of falling, which contributes to almost half of injury deaths in those 65 and older.
Does adding a stair lift add or detract from a home’s resale value?
Installing stair lifts in your home generally does not increase or decrease a home’s resale value. While the investment may be a huge boon for your life, prospective buyers may not find it helpful.
Are stair lifts for seniors difficult to operate?
No, stair lifts are very easy to use. During installation, a stair lift professional will walk you through the process and show you how to use it safely. Simple buttons on the stair lift arm and usually a remote control help you easily move up and down the stairs.
Are stair lifts dangerous for older adults?
No, stair lifts should not be dangerous for those 65 and older. Stair lifts are designed to be easy to use and have safety features to protect the person using them. Safety features such as a lap harness or obstruction sensor are used to ensure the user is not harmed.
Is there an alternative to a stair lift?
Yes, there are many alternatives to stair lifts. Low-cost options include grab rails or hand bars. Other choices include increasing physical therapy and strengthening muscles to go up and down the stairs safely. Many occupational therapists recommend physical therapy and other strengthening exercises to move safely around your home as you age.
Is there a temporary stair lift?
Homeowners can rent stair lifts temporarily, but you cannot install a “temporary” device to carry you up and down the stairs (unless you have someone very strong in your household).
Can you rent stair lifts?
Yes, you can rent them from many stair lift companies. At Independent Home Solutions, we rent stair lifts to homeowners in York, Harrisburg, Reading, and Lancaster, Pennsylvania. You can rent them for as long or as short as you need.
How long does installation take?
Standard stair lift installations for straight units usually take one day, while installation for curved or outdoor stair lifts may take one to two days. Installation time typically depends on the particular staircase and any issues that occur.
What is the disadvantage of a stair lift?
Stair lifts have a few disadvantages. They are expensive, and not everyone can afford them. They also take up space on staircases, which may be a problem for those with smaller staircases. Other disadvantages may include the cost of upkeep, such as repairs or replacing batteries.
