If you are getting older, you might be concerned about how you are going to continue going up and down the stairs in your home. This is especially true if you have arthritis or any other condition that makes it hard for you to navigate stairs. If you don't want to move out of your home just yet, there is one way for you to safely get up and down the stairs. The solution is to install a home stair lift.
If you want to know more about this mobility device, here are the answers to three frequently asked questions about home stair lifts.
1. What Are the Different Types of Stair Lifts?
A stair lift runs along a rail that is attached to the treads of your stairs. There are different types of stair lifts, including the following:
- Straight stair lifts are used on straight staircases and can be attached on either side of the stairs.
- Curved stair lifts are used for staircases that have a curve in them.
- Standing stair lifts are used for people who have a hard time sitting in a stair lift chair.
- Platform stair lifts are used for people who use a wheelchair or a walker.
There are also outdoor stair lifts that can be attached to porches and other places that contain steps.
2. How Much Do Home Stair Lifts Cost?
The price of a home stair lift varies widely and is dependent on what kind you get. On average, you can expect to pay a few thousand dollars. This includes installation costs as well as a service warranty.
Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover home stair lifts, as they are not considered durable medical equipment. Instead, Medicare categorizes stair lifts as home modifications, which are never covered.
3. How Do I Purchase a Home Stair Lift?
Even though it's not considered durable medical equipment, you may want to check with your local DME provider to see if they sell home stair lifts. If they don't, they will most likely recommend a company that sells them. These companies will deliver and install your home stair lift. If you don't want to purchase a stair lift, you can also rent one.
When buying or purchasing a stair lift, you may want to look for certain features, including the following:
- Remote controls
- Call-send stations
- Seatbelt
You will also need to choose what kind of seat you need. In most cases, you can choose either a folding seat or a swivel one.
