What are the different types of stair lifts?
There are three main types of stair lifts: curved, straight, and outdoor. Each is made for a specific setting. Outdoor stair lifts are sturdier and can withstand bad weather, whereas straight indoor stair lifts are for straight staircases.
Does Medicare cover stair lifts for seniors?
No, Medicare usually does not pay for stair lifts. It covers the cost for durable medical equipment or other items deemed medically necessary, but doesn’t cover large devices like stair lifts. Some Medicare Advantage Plans may offer extra coverage that covers a portion of a stair lift.
How much are stair lifts for seniors?
Standard indoor stair lifts cost between $3,4000 and $10,000. Outdoor or curved stair lifts cost more and usually start at $10,000, and depending on different factors, can go as high as $27,000.
How does a stair lift benefit older adults in their daily lives?
Stair lifts help reduce the risk of falls and allow older adults to move confidently around their homes without assistance.
Falls account for around 3 million emergency department visits for the elderly each year, and an unintentional fall is the number one reason for injury death in those 65 and up, accounting for 46.4%.
Does adding a senior citizen lift/chair stair climber add or detract from a home’s resale value?
How a stair lift affects your home’s resale value depends on various factors. These may include whether a young couple or older adults are interested in the house, the size of the stairs, and the space the stair lift takes up.
Stair lifts generally don’t add or detract from the resale value of a home.
Are stair lifts for seniors difficult to operate?
No, stair lifts are designed with simple buttons and controls to move the lift up and down the stairs. Most models have a button or joystick that you use to move them. Some units have remote controls as well, and they have a few buttons to push.
Are stair lifts dangerous for older adults?
No, stair lifts are made to be easy to operate and have safety features to prevent injuries. When using a stair lift, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Adhere to weight limit restrictions, use safety features such as a lap harness or belt, and ensure other safety features, such as the obstruction sensor, are in good working condition.
If there is something wrong with a safety feature, you should get it repaired before using the lift.
Is there a temporary stair lift?
Yes, you can contact local stair lift dealers like Independent Home Solutions for stair lift rentals. A team will come to install a stair lift for your personal use and can remove it whenever you’re done with it.
Is there an alternative to a stair lift?
Yes, there are alternatives to stair lifts to help older adults get up and down stairs. These include stair steppers, grab bars, and handrails. Other alternatives may include physical therapy to strengthen the legs to help you walk up and down stairs more confidently.
Can you rent stair lifts?
Yes, many stair lift companies allow you to rent stair lifts. Whether you’re unsure if you need one or simply want to use it for a set amount of time (e.g., if you have a visiting relative), you can rent most types.
At Independent Home Solutions, we offer stair lift rentals in the Central Pennsylvania area in York, Harrisburg, Reading, and Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
How long does installation take?
Each stair lift installation is unique and may take varying amounts of time. It depends on whether a straight, curved, or outdoor stair lift is being installed. Straight stair lifts generally take one day or less to install, while curved stair lifts can take up to two days due to the customization required to fit each curve or angle.
Do stair lifts have any disadvantages?
Yes, stair lifts have a few disadvantages, mainly related to their size. They may not be ideal for those with smaller staircases, as they may make the walkway too narrow for those not using the lift. They also require pathways to be clear at all times when in use.
