The first and most important tip is to review the mobility and specific needs of the person who will potentially need a stair lift to get up and down the stairs safely. When someone calls to ask about a stair lift, we will ask about the mobility and needs of the person that will be using the lift. It helps both you and our sales consultant to determine whether or not a stair lift is, in fact, the best solution. Once that is determined, it will then be much easier to look into the different types of lifts available and consider any options that may be needed. Providing the user’s height and weight will also help narrow down your options as the weight capacity for a lift can range between 250 – 400 lbs. Another solution such as a wheelchair lift or through the elevator may be considered if a stair lift is not a viable option.

 Why Stairway Style Impact Price

The type of staircase you have in your home will determine the type of rail that will be needed for the lift. If the staircase is straight with no intermediate landings, then you will need a standardized straight rail stairlift.

However, if there are curves, turns, or intermediate landings, then the rail is going to need to be customized to fit the exact specifications of your staircase. Each manufacturer has its own photo measurement system, which ensures that the rail will be designed to fit your staircase like a glove. That is also why a curved rail stair lift costs more than a standard straight rail stair lift.

Stairlift Brand, Quality, Warranty & Service Availability

Bruno

Bruno Independent Living Aids is an industry leading manufacturer of straight and curved stair lifts. Award-winning Bruno manufactures indoor and outdoor stair lifts in Wisconsin and takes pride in their position as industry innovation leader. With a strong focus on quality and safety, family-owned Bruno offers a Lifetime Limited Warranty on their indoor straight stair lifts. In addition to stair lifts, Bruno manufacturer’s vertical platform lifts and wheelchair lifts for vehicles. They are also an ISO certified manufacturer that offers independent lifestyle solutions to mobility-challenged individuals and elders. Bruno offers a range of budget-wise stair lifts that helps seniors and mobility-challenged individuals restore safety and gain peace of mind in their own homes.

Harmar

Harmar has the largest variety of wheelchair, scooter, and power stair lifts and offers innovative solutions to enhance home accessibility for the mobility-challenged. Harmar provides people with a way to gain more freedom to go where they want, when they want. Harmar offers ergonomically designed seats and a 2-year warranty on standard lifts.

Handicare

Handicare is committed to making everyday life easier for disabled and elderly people and to empowering them to live an active life – on their terms. At the same time, they want to support those who assist them. This is why they provide well-designed solutions that help increase independence, and are easy and safe to use for both healthcare professionals and family members.

Are Stairlifts Covered by Insurance?

Unfortunately, insurance and Medicare typically do not pay for stairlifts.

However, many states do offer Medicaid waivers that will pay for stairlifts for qualifying individuals. For veterans, many VA facilities can provide either partial or full funding for the cost of home improvements related to accessibility.

Additionally, if your doctor writes you a prescription for a stair lift, many states allow the seller to waive sales tax which can save you hundreds of dollars. 

Lastly, check with your tax advisor.  Stairlifts may be considered a medical device purchase.  If your lift qualifies, then you may be able to write off the cost of your lift on your Federal Tax Return (U.S.A.).  

Check out this cool video that shows how stairlifts are installed

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