Question 1

How Can I Get Help Paying for a Stair Lift?

Accepted Answer

Keep in mind that stair lift installation can be expensive. However, many companies offer financing. The options to finance will always depend on the cost of the lift, your credit history and if you put any money down upfront. Explore the financing details to ensure you are not being charged a high-interest rate.

You should also explore if your insurance covers any portion of purchase or installation. Insurance options are often limited, but it never hurts to double-check. Medicare does not currently pay for stair lifts but there may be some options through Medicare Advantage plans for reimbursement. If you have Medicaid, you will need to check with your state-specific benefits to determine if you are eligible for any reimbursement.

Veterans are often eligible for some or full payment for stairl ifts. It is well worth the time and effort to contact the Department of Veterans Affairs caregiver support line for more details.

You should also consider what the cost of removal is as well for the long-term viability of your home or should you move.

Question 2

What Safety Features Should I Look For In a Stair Lift?

Accepted Answer

You will need to ensure your stair lift has fundamental safety features to keep your aging loved one safe.

Stair lifts are required to undergo thorough analysis and testing prior to being available on the market per the FDA. (Source: FDA.gov)

Some of the core features include: safety belts/harnesses, obstruction detection, and keylocks. The safety of your aging loved one is a top priority and each item below should be tested prior to using it fully.

Safetybelts: You are used to a seatbelt in a car but when using a stair lift they are essential for safety. The safety belt may look more like a harness in some cases.
Keylocks: An essential safety feature is the keylock. This is something that if removed, the stairlift cannot operate. Using this will prevent children or others that shouldn’t be occupying the lift from using it.
Obstruction Detection: When a stairlift is in motion it is critical it has obstruction detection to prevent it from running over an object on the track.

Question 3

How Are Stair Lifts Powered?

Accepted Answer

A stairlift may fit nicely into your home but the hardware required to function may surprise you. Some of the core components to the functional operation of a stairlift include:

Battery: This is what will keep your stairlift moving. The batteries will be larger and more expensive then what you typically buy for your appliances. You will find them typically at the base of the seat, near the motor. The battery will likely need to be replaced but this will be a few years after purchase.
Battery Charger: The battery replacement as mentioned above is every few years so charging your battery will keep it alive. The charger will typically be found under the track or near the beginning or end of the track. The charger will likely work automatically with no action on your part.
Motor: The stairlift needs to be moved up and down with a small but powerful motor. The main driver of the stairlift chair can be found at the base of the seat and controls the movement and speed of the lift.
Transmission: Like a vehicle, the motor is moving at a high speed to safely more the stair lift up and down the track. The transmission is used to reduce the speed of the lift while increasing the power.

Question 4

What Should I Consider When Evaluating a Stair Lift Company?

Accepted Answer

Consider the following when evaluating each company and ensuring it is the high-quality product you want:

What is the price range you are willing to spend on the stair lift?
Does the company offer a payment plan?
How many different types of stair lifts does the company manufacture?
Do you need an indoor or outdoor stair lift?
How many years of warranty will the company offer?
What are the safety features incorporated into the product?
Is the stairlift self-installed or does it require professional installation?
How does the stairlift handle a power outage?
Is the stairlift battery-operated or electrical?
Do you want to buy or rent the stairlift?

When you answer the questions above, consider both the present and future needs of your aging loved one. Be intentional with your research and review of each of the companies. Being a knowledgeable consumer will put you in the best position possible.