Does Medicare Cover Stairlifts? Understanding Your Options
If you're on Medicare and need a stairlift, you might be wondering if your insurance will help pay for it. Here's what you need to know about Medicare coverage and alternative funding options.
The Short Answer
Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover stairlifts. Stairlifts are classified as “home modifications” rather than durable medical equipment (DME), which means they fall outside of Medicare's coverage guidelines.
Why Doesn't Medicare Cover Stairlifts?
Medicare Part B covers durable medical equipment (DME) that meets specific criteria:
- The equipment must be prescribed by a doctor
- It must serve a medical purpose
- It must be suitable for use in the home
- It must be usable in any home or multiple locations
The last point is where stairlifts fall short. Because a stairlift is permanently installed in one specific home and can't be easily moved to another location, Medicare classifies it as a home modification rather than portable medical equipment.
Items like hospital beds, wheelchairs, and oxygen equipment are covered because they can move with the patient. A stairlift, by contrast, is attached to the home itself.
What About Medicare Advantage Plans?
Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) sometimes offer additional benefits not covered by Original Medicare. While most Medicare Advantage plans follow the same guidelines and don't cover stairlifts, some plans have started offering limited home modification benefits.
It's worth calling your Medicare Advantage plan directly to ask about:
- Home modification benefits
- Safety equipment coverage
- Fall prevention program benefits
Even if your plan offers some coverage, it's unlikely to cover the full cost of a stairlift, but every bit helps.
Alternative Funding Options
While Medicare won't pay for your stairlift, several other options may help cover the cost:
1. VA Benefits (Veterans)
If you're a veteran, you may qualify for significant assistance through the VA's Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) grant or the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant. These programs can cover stairlifts and other home modifications.
Read our complete guide to VA benefits for stairlifts →
2. Medicaid Waiver Programs
Unlike Medicare, some state Medicaid programs do cover stairlifts through Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver programs. These programs are designed to help people avoid nursing home placement by making their homes more accessible.
Coverage varies significantly by state. In Texas, the Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS) program and STAR+PLUS program may provide assistance for qualifying individuals.
3. State Vocational Rehabilitation
State vocational rehabilitation agencies may help pay for stairlifts if the modification would help you work or participate in a training program. This option is typically for working-age adults with disabilities.
4. Area Agencies on Aging
Your local Area Agency on Aging may offer home modification assistance programs or know of local resources that can help. Contact the Houston-Galveston Area Agency on Aging at (832) 393-4301 for more information.
5. Non-Profit Organizations
Several non-profit organizations provide grants or low-interest loans for home modifications. Organizations like Rebuilding Together and local Lions Clubs sometimes help fund accessibility improvements.
6. Tax Deductions
Stairlifts may be tax-deductible as a medical expense if your total medical expenses exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income and you itemize deductions. The deductible amount may be limited to the cost minus any increase in home value. Consult with a tax professional for guidance on your specific situation.
7. Financing Options
If you need to pay out of pocket, several financing options can make a stairlift more affordable:
- Medical credit cards (like CareCredit)
- Home equity loans or lines of credit
- Personal loans
- Payment plans offered by stairlift companies
Consider the Cost of NOT Having a Stairlift
While a stairlift is an investment, consider the alternatives:
- Falls: The average cost of a fall-related injury is over $30,000 in medical bills
- Nursing home care: Monthly costs of $6,000-$8,000 in Texas
- Moving: Real estate fees, moving costs, and emotional toll
- Home remodeling: Adding a first-floor bedroom/bathroom costs $20,000+
A stairlift costing $2,500-$5,000 is often the most cost-effective solution for maintaining independence and safety.
We're Here to Help
Navigating funding options can be confusing. At Sunshine Stairlifts, we can provide information about resources that may be available in your situation. During your free consultation, we'll discuss your needs and help you explore your options.
Questions About Stairlift Funding?
We can help you understand your options. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your situation.