Mobility challenges affect millions of aging Americans, with an estimated 19 million reporting mobility issues. These issues typically worsen with age; on average, 36% of adults aged 65 and older experience mobility problems.
For many, stairs become a challenge, limiting access to their home. Home modifications like chair lifts offer a safe, reliable way to move around the house without worrying.
Other mobility aids, such as grab bars, raised toilet seats, wheelchair ramps, walk-in showers, and chair lifts for stairs, transform standard multi-level homes into safe spaces for older adults to age in place.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about chair lifts for stairs and how to find a reliable stair lift company in Overland Park.
What Are Chair Lifts for Stairs?
Chair lifts for stairs are mobility devices with a seat that travels up and down the stairs on a rail. They help those with mobility issues access all areas of their home without asking for help.
“Chair lift for stairs” and “stair lifts” are often used interchangeably and refer to the same mobility tool.
What’s the Stair Lift Installation Process in Overland Park, KS?
Ready to install a stair lift in your Overland Park home? Call Independent Home Solutions at 913-228-3039 for a one-day installation.
Stair Lift Installation Process:
- Call us at 913-228-3039 to select a date for your free assessment.
- Our team will measure your stairs and perform checks during the initial assessment. At this time, you can discuss your mobility needs. Our team will also inform you of the expected budget and timeline.
- Select a day for one-day installation, and you’re all set! Stairlift installation takes one day.
- On installation day, our team will install the stair lift, show you how to use it, and answer any questions you may have.
- Still have questions? Don’t hesitate to call and ask any follow-up questions at 913-228-3039.
What Are the Benefits of Stair Lifts? (According to the Experts)
Not sure if a stair lift is right for you? Here’s what the experts have to say.
Brenda Scott, an Aging in Place Specialist and owner of Tidy My Space, shares the success of one of her clients. “Stair lifts can be a great help to anyone with mobility issues who lives in a home with different levels. I have a client who has two units, one for each staircase, and she loves them. They are slim, with foldable armrests, so it’s easy to sit down, and they take up less room for others using the stairs. On top of that, she can take them with her when she moves, if needed”.
Others like Wil Thomas, a Seniors Bulletin writer and senior care expert, think that “Stairlifts are pretty impressive tech, making a real difference for older adults wanting to stay in their homes. These chair lifts [for stairs] are a game-changer for safety and independence, which is huge for seniors who love their multi-story houses. Yes, they can be a bit of an investment ($2k to 3k for straight, $10k+ for curved), but many families find it’s worth every penny compared to moving or needing more hands-on care”.
While many experts believe stair lifts can offer greater freedom for older adults, other alternatives offer additional benefits. Heidi Gras, Executive Director of LifeCircles PACE and a Licensed Master Social Worker, shares that “Instead [of stair lifts], we would recommend making other accommodations whenever possible, mostly encouraging proactive support from physical and occupational therapists to maximize someone’s independence and function in their home.”
Gras believes this can include physical therapy, strength training, balance training, occupational therapy, and ADL training.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a chair lift for stairs and a lift chair?
A lift chair lifts a person to the correct height so they can stand up easily, while a chair lift for stairs carries an individual up and down the stairs, so they don’t have to walk themselves. They are both mobility tools, but each serves a different purpose, allowing aging adults and people with disabilities to live comfortably in their homes.
How much does a chair lift for stairs in Overland Park, KS, cost?
On average, stair lifts cost between $3,400 and $10,000 in Overland Park. Some brands and models may cost more or less than this average, and the widest ranges typically run between $3,400 and $27,000.
Does insurance pay for chair lifts for stairs?
Most insurance policies don’t cover the cost of chair lifts for stairs, as they aren’t classified as “durable medical equipment (DME).” Individuals with Medicare may have coverage for other DME tools such as hospital beds, walkers, and wheelchairs.
What is the best chair lift for stairs?
Bruno is typically considered the best stair lift option for homeowners. Each unit comes with extensive warranties and a slim rail.
What can aging adults use instead of stair lifts?
Alternatives to stair lifts include stair steppers, grab bars, home elevators, and platform lifts. As you age, also consider strength training and physical therapy exercises to maintain muscle and move more easily through your home without fear of falling.
What’s a good stairlift company in Overland Park, KS?
Independent Home Solutions is a reliable stair lift company in Overland Park, Kansas. If you want to move safely around your home or not have to worry about loved ones, our teams offer home modifications.
Our service areas include Fairway, Kansas City, Leawood, Lenexa, Mission, Mission Hills, Overland Park, Olathe, Prairie Village, Shawnee, Roeland Park, and Westwood in Kansas and Blue Springs, Belton, Gladstone, Grain Valley, Grandview, Independence, Kansas City, Lee’s Summit, Liberty, North Kansas City, Pleasant Hill, Raymore, Raytown, and Waldo in Missouri.
