Does Medicare Cover Stairlifts for Seniors?

Updated August 7, 2025 | Lisbeth Cano

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If your aging parent is having trouble with stairs, a stairlift could make a big difference in keeping them safe at home.

But will Medicare help pay for it?

Here’s what families need to know about stairlift coverage under Medicare, and what other funding options might be available.

What Medicare Covers — and What It Doesn’t

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for:

  • Adults 65 and older
  • Some younger people with disabilities
  • Individuals with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)

Medicare Part B and Durable Medical Equipment (DME)

Medicare Part B covers certain medically necessary supplies and equipment, known as Durable Medical Equipment (DME).

To qualify, the item must:

  • Be used for a medical reason
  • Be durable and reusable
  • Be appropriate for home use
  • Be prescribed by a doctor

Examples of covered DME:

  • Wheelchairs and walkers
  • Oxygen equipment
  • Hospital beds
  • Patient lifts (not stairlifts)

“Medicare Part B covers patient lifts as durable medical equipment that your doctor prescribes for use in your home.”1

Why Medicare Doesn’t Cover Stairlifts

Even though stairlifts improve mobility, Original Medicare does not cover them.

Why? Because stairlifts are considered home modifications, not medical equipment.

That means they fall outside the definition of DME — similar to:

  • Grab bars
  • Wheelchair ramps
  • Bathroom remodeling
  • Widening doorways

These upgrades make a home safer but aren’t considered medically necessary by Medicare standards.

➤ Learn more in Home Modifications

Other Ways to Get Help Paying for a Stairlift

Even if Medicare doesn’t pay, other programs might help reduce costs.

✅ Medicaid Waivers

  • Some state Medicaid programs offer Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers
  • These may cover stairlifts or other home accessibility modifications

✅ Veterans Benefits

  • The VA may provide grants for mobility-related home changes
  • Includes Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) and HISA grants for eligible veterans

✅ Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)

  • These plans are offered by private insurers
  • Some include flexible spending allowances for accessibility equipment like stairlifts2

✅ Local Programs & Nonprofits

  • Check with your local Area Agency on Aging
  • Some nonprofits or housing agencies offer grants or low-interest loans

➤ Start here: BenefitsCheckUp.org

What You Can Expect to Pay

Because stairlifts aren’t covered under Original Medicare, most families must pay out of pocket.

Stairlift Type Estimated Cost Range
Straight $2,500–$5,000
Curved $8,000–$12,000+
Platform (wheelchair) $10,000–$20,000+

Some companies offer:

  • Monthly payment plans
  • Rentals for short-term use
  • Discounts on reconditioned models

➤ Compare options in Rent vs Buy a Stairlift

Medicare-Covered Alternatives to Stairlifts

While Medicare won’t cover stairlifts, it will help with other mobility equipment if medically necessary.

How to Get Covered Equipment

  • [ ] Get a doctor’s prescription
  • [ ] Use a Medicare-enrolled supplier
  • [ ] Check the supplier accepts Medicare assignment
  • [ ] Expect to pay 20% coinsurance after the Part B deductible3

Covered items may include:

  • Wheelchairs (manual or powered)
  • Walkers
  • Patient lifts
  • Hospital beds

“Medicare only covers DME if you get it from a supplier enrolled in Medicare.”3

If a claim is denied, you can file an appeal.

Should You Still Consider a Stairlift?

A stairlift might still be the safest choice — even without Medicare coverage — if your parent:

  • Can no longer climb stairs safely
  • Has had a fall (or near-miss) on the stairs
  • Avoids using upper or lower floors due to fear of falling
  • Would need to move homes without one

Talk to their doctor about safety concerns. You can also request a Home Safety Assessment

Final Thoughts: Medicare, Mobility, and Aging at Home

Original Medicare doesn’t pay for stairlifts because they’re considered home modifications — not durable medical equipment.

But don’t give up.

Look into:

  • Medicaid waivers
  • VA housing grants
  • Medicare Advantage benefits
  • Local and nonprofit support
  • Used stairlift programs
  • Manufacturer financing plans

“You don’t want to risk having a fall and being unable to get help.” — Dr. Warren Wong

With a little research, you can find a solution that helps your loved one stay safe, mobile, and independent at home.

  1. https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/patient-lifts ↩

  2. https://www.medicare.gov/publications/11045-medicare-coverage-of-dme-and-other-devices.pdf ↩

  3. https://www.medicare.gov/publications/11045-medicare-coverage-of-dme-and-other-devices.pdf ↩ ↩

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Lisbeth Cano Clinical Researcher and Elder Advocate

Meet the author: Lisbeth Cano earned her medical degree from Universidad de Iberoamérica in Costa Rica and worked as a doctor before becoming a clinical researcher. She now focuses on senior care, writing evidence-based guides for SeniorCanvas.com to help families make safer, smarter decisions for aging parents.